I’m writing this post to address the issue of running a piece of hardware, specifically a Rimage printer or disc publisher, that will not work with newer versions of Windows like 7 or 8. Typically these are printers like the Everest II, Everest III or PrismPlus. Or older embedded systems like 5100n, 5300n, 6100n, 7100n and 8100n.

Of course equipment manufacturers are using the end of XP support as a gold ticket to sell you new, expensive equipment. This can be frustrating and very costly if your current systems are performing just fine as-is.

Here’s how to keep using Windows XP while keeping your PC safe:

1. Stop using Internet Explorer 8 – switch to the latest Mozilla Firefox or Chrome browser.
2. Purchase a current Anti-Virus subscription from one of the big players – Most of these companies have guaranteed support through 2016.
3. Stop using Outlook Express for your email.
4. Upgrade from Office XP or Office 2003 – neither are supported anymore.
5. Remove Insecure Software and applications like Java and Flash(if you don’t need any more).
6. Disconnect the XP PC from your Network if you can. If not make sure your XP PC(s) do not have administrator rights. Only use a limited account for these XP systems.
7. Run XP on a virtual machine (but, if an application needs direct access to a piece of hardware, it may not work).

Have any questions about running disc duplicators or printers on XP? Contact us at 952-944-0083 x-22. Ask for Kevin.