WITH only eight months before Microsoft withdraws support on its still widely-used operating systems Windows XP and Office 2003, companies must have a plan to switch operating systems or face security issues, warns Poole-based IT firm Innovate.

From April 2014, Microsoft will stop providing security updates for the technology and those firms using Windows XP and Office 2003 beyond this date will be exposed to cyber attacks, security breaches and theft.

To ensure companies remain on supported versions of Windows and Office action needs to be taken now or else companies will not be fully protected.

To help companies understand what this means to a company and what can be done in advance, Innovate will be running a free workshop titled from its office in Poole.

The session will take place on Friday, September 13, from 9am to 11am and is designed to inform business owners, directors and senior managers about how to future proof IT.

David Pape, MD at Innovate, said: “XP and 2003 users are likely to face very serious problems in the future.

“Their whole business could be compromised and we are encouraging everyone who has not upgraded to make plans as soon as possible.”

The workshop takes place at Innovate, Acorn Business Park, Ling Road, Poole. To book a place, call Adrian Pitt on 0330 999 1000 or email apitt@innovate.uk.com