Computer software you need to replace

Running old software is like going away on holiday and leaving the front door open, with a sign saying “we’re away”, you’d be very fortunate if you weren’t to get burgled. Old software, which is no longer receiving updates or is no longer supported by the manufacturer, should be removed from your computer systems and replaced as needed.

Let’s look at some examples of software you might still be using, and what you should consider doing about it.

March 19th 2024 was the end of Authy desktop software

Authy is software which provides your computer system with authentication codes when you’re logging in, often referred to as 2FA or MFA. We love Authy, with it being our go-to Authenticator software. Sadly though, the desktop version of the software was withdrawn on March 19th 2024. The mobile versions aren’t going anywhere, just to be clear, this is just the version you might use on your computer which is coming to an end. You’re options here are to use it on a mobile device instead, or potentially switch over to a different authenticator app. Our recommendation is to use it on a mobile device instead.

Sage Products which are before version 26

If you’re using Sage software, for example, Sage Accounts or Sage Payroll, you should be keeping this up-to-date to remain in support and to have all the latest features available to you. Anything before version 26 (technically 26.3) is no longer supported and should either upgrade or replace the software. Upgrading Sage is generally quite straightforward, but you should have backups in place before you proceed. You can check what version of Sage you are using by clicking on Help and then About Sage. 

Microsoft Office 2016 and 2019

Mainstream support for these products has already ended, however, they are still getting security updates via their extended support until October 14th 2025. What this means is that the software won’t get any new features, but will get critical security updates until October 14th 2025, after which, that will also come to an end. If you’re considering purchasing these products, please be aware of the October 2025 end of support, as you’re only going to get around eighteen months use of of them. If you’re using one of these versions of Microsoft Office, the simplest and most secure solution moving forward would be to use a 365 version of Microsoft Office, which is constantly updated and supported. 

October 14th 2025 – Windows 10 goes into retirement

Ok, this is still quite a long time away, we just wanted to make you aware now. Windows 10 support ends in October 2025, meaning it won’t get security updates or service packs. Well before October 2025, you should have either upgraded to Windows 11 (if your computer supports it) or replaced your computer with one running Windows 11 for example. This is simply something to think about as you replace computers, making sure any new computer you get, isn’t running Windows 10 out of the box. 

The important message here is not to use unsupported software. You’re asking for problems, from security breaches to loss of productivity sorting out problems with old software.

Gavin Moorhouse is the owner of Lucid Computer Solutions, from their base in Redditch, they provide businesses with IT Support across Worcestershire and Warwickshire. He used penguin-based software (if you know, you know), which is fully supported, to produce this article.