VISTA  - released just over 3 years ago, Microsoft have just ended support for the original version of Windows Vista. This means that if you are still using the original version of Vista and have not upgraded to Vista Service Pack 1 or 2, your Windows system will no longer qualify for support from Microsoft, including hot fixes to patch bugs and security problems. You therefore need to upgrade to at least Service Pack 1 (all the way to Service Pack 2 would be better) now to keep your Vista system secure.

XP - on the 13th of July Microsoft will also end of support for XP systems running Service Pack 2, meaning that if you are still using XP, you will need to upgrade to Service Pack 3 in order to keep receiving security fixes and updates.

How to identify what version of VISTA or XP you currently use – Hold down the ‘windows key’ and press the ‘PAUSE / BREAK’ key

(On a standard desktop keyboard the ‘Windows’ key is next the ‘ALT’ keys either side of the space bar and the ‘PAUSE / BREAK’ is top right of the keyboard at the end of the function key row. Laptop keyboards may differ so you will have to search around) 

In XP, the “System Properties” window will appear – if not current, select the ‘General’ page where you will see the XP and Service Pack versions.

In VISTA, the ‘system basic information’ window will appear where you will see the VISTA and Service Pack versions.

If you don’t see Service Pack 3 for XP or at least Service Pack 1 for VISTA you can force your system to update via the normal Windows Updates process.  In both XP and VISTA the service packs have to be downloaded and then run. This can take a while and will involve the system rebooting at least once so put aside some time. If you only have dialup I would not recommend you try to download these updates. Service Packs are available on CD (I have copies)

If you’re not comfortable running these updates yourself, there are several Computer support businesses in the Bude area. Some are high street shops and others are mobile businesses, like myself.

If you just want some additional information just ask here.