At a high level, as the Managed Service Provider, you have a few options. But first, it is critical to be well-versed in the matter so you're prepared to answer the common questions circulating the matter.
Customers need your help before it is too late! Microsoft's deadline to end all support for Windows 7 and Server 2008 on January 14, 2020 is approaching quickly. After this date, usability will decline, leaving users with more issues, poorer functionality and serious security vulnerabilities. End users are seeking help from knowledgeable Managed Service Providers - like you - who can get them upgraded in a timely manner. To help you help them, we have several resources available to fully equip you to use Windows 7 and Service 2008 End of Life as an opportunity to build a stronger reputation and capture even more revenue.
If your customer chooses not to act, remaining on Windows 7 is a dangerous idea -- it is no joke that after January 14, 2020, these users will no longer be protected from any new vulnerabilities. In other words, every user will be forced to fend for himself when hackers make their way to them.
If you choose not to act, a competitor could take ownership of the upgrade opportunity. The responsibility to take care of your customers falls on you -- are you prepared to answer customer questions around this matter? Is your sales team prepared to approach this sale to ensure you are not positioned as the "bad guy" as Windows 10 goes end of life next?
Aside from educating your customer on the security concerns involved in remaining on Windows 7 after the EOL date, you need to get them excited! Unlike previous versions, including Windows 7, Windows 10 is less like a stand-alone product and more like a service. With two updates per year, the operating system is secure and loaded with frequent, fresh features and improvements. Features aside -- how could you opt out of security?
