Windows XP Extended Support: Costs & Why Businesses Still Pay

Extended support for Windows XP can cost around $200 per desktop for one year, with stipulations requiring intent to migrate. Windows XP, despite being 12 years old, still powers nearly 38% of the world's computers, including 95% of US ATMs and 96% of schools. With support ending on April 8th, running XP becomes risky. Microsoft offers custom support agreements, as seen with the Dutch government paying millions of Euros and the UK government making a £5.6 million deal for continued support. Banks have until January 2016 to upgrade their ATMs, facing significant costs, potentially upwards of £60 million for UK banks. The value of Windows XP is evident in the willingness of entities to pay substantial amounts to maintain its use and security.