You've touched on a significant topic that many users face when dealing with older systems like Windows 7. As of the last updates, Microsoft Office 2019 is the latest version that officially supports Windows 7. However, it’s worth noting that support for both Windows 7 and Office 2019 is limited because Microsoft has shifted its focus to newer platforms.
One major concern with continuing to use Windows 7 is security. Microsoft ended extended support for Windows 7 on January 14, 2020, meaning there are no more security updates or patches for vulnerabilities. This can leave your system susceptible to malware and cyber threats, especially with newer Office versions that could also potentially face unknown threats.
Stability might also become an issue, as more recent Office versions are optimized for Windows 10 or 11. Running them on an older OS might not cause immediate problems, but you could experience crashes or unresponsiveness. Compatibility issues with third-party software or modern peripherals—a common challenge with Windows 7—can further exacerbate these problems.
Regarding performance and features, upgrading to a newer OS like Windows 10 or 11 often brings noticeable improvements. For instance, newer Office versions offer collaborative features via Microsoft 365, enhanced security, and better integration with cloud services, which you might not fully experience on Windows 7. There’s also a noticeable boost in system performance due to better resource management in newer operating systems.
If upgrading is on your radar, I’d suggest weighing the pros and cons of costs, compatibility with existing hardware, and any necessary training or adjustments for new interfaces. You might start by upgrading to Windows 10, which has a more familiar interface compared to Windows 7 but with enhanced features and support.
For further reading, you might look into Microsoft's lifecycle policy pages or security blogs that evaluate risks associated with outdated software. It's also wise to check forums or reviews about user experiences when shifting from Windows 7 to newer systems.
What specific features or applications do you rely on now? Identifying those might help tailor advice on whether the upgrades will be advantageous for your needs. Let me know if you'd like more detailed information on a particular aspect, and I'm happy to dive deeper!