Q: Should I Upgrade to Windows 7?

A: I recently received an email that read "I'm a longtime user of XP and don't really want to switch. Are there any really useful non-fluff reasons to go to Vista and beyond?"

I am a huge fan of Windows XP and I'm sure I'll have some machines running it for a long time to come.  However, the answer to the question is yes, eventually you should switch to Windows 7.  The reason is, Microsoft only provides support for each operating system for a limited time.  In the case of Windows XP, according to this Microsoft article,

• Mainstream Support delivers complimentary and paid support, free security updates, and bug fixes to all Windows customers who purchase a retail copy of Windows XP (i.e., a shrink-wrapped, not pre-installed copy). Mainstream Support for Windows XP will continue through April 2009.
• Extended Support delivers free security updates to all Windows customers. Customers can also pay for support on a per incident basis. Extended Support for Windows XP will continue until April 2014. New bug fixes require the Extended Hotfix Support program.

So you've got some time, if all you care about are the free security updates.  If you are currently on Vista, you've got even more time technically, although in practice I think Vista users are going to upgrade to Windows 7 like crazy!

My advice is stick to Windows XP as long as your current computer holds out, but when it is time for a new one, go ahead and make the switch to Windows 7.  All signs point to it being a pretty cool operating system, like Windows XP. 

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