As you probably know by now, Microsoft has officially stopped supporting both Windows XP and Windows Vista, leaving users pretty much on their own when it comes to system security and malware protection.
As expected, many of the most popular online services quickly started ending XP and Vista support as well, and the stream of companies taking that action is expanding month by month.
Apple is the latest company to jump on the “Dump XP and Vista” bandwagon.
According to this newly released iTunes support update, computers running either Windows XP or Windows Vista will no longer be able to access the iTunes Store beginning May 25, 2018.
After that date you’ll still be able to use any iTunes content that’s already on your PC but you won’t be able to log in to your iTunes account and download anything new.
I’ve been expecting Apple to drop support for those abandoned Windows versions for some time, and frankly, I’m surprised they haven’t done it long before now.
Bottom line: If you want to keep using your iTunes account with your Windows PC after May 25 you’ll have to upgrade your Windows XP or Vista installation to Windows 10. Your only other options will be to either purchase a new computer or access iTunes via a mobile device.
Bonus tip #1: If you decide to forgo iTunes and keep using your Windows XP or Vista machine I strongly recommend that you run frequent scans for viruses and other forms of malware.
You’ll find step-by-step instructions for tracking down and removing all traces of malware from your system in this post.
Bonus tip #2: I also strongly recommend that you enable Two-Factor Authentication on every one of your online accounts that support it.
These posts contain instructions for enabling Two-Factor Authentication on several of the most popular online services.
Like this post? If so, I invite you to share it on social media. Just click one the handy buttons below.