Windows XP - No

Windows XP is outdated and vulnerable. Microsoft has also dropped support for Windows XP. The biggest reason not to run XP is the spyware threat that can easily lead to a completely compromised system. In Windows XP if you simply click on a bad link your system can become infected without your knowledge. It is just that easy and from there all your logins and data are at risk. If you insist on running on XP you must have very strong anti-spyware to go along with your excellent anti-virus.

Windows Vista – Maybe, but why?

Windows Vista was a good attempt to fix security issues but a poor attempt at an efficient operating system. A new easy to use firewall configuration system and new feature User Account Control can keep users easily protected as long as they do not completely ignore system warnings. Vista has many compatibility issues and speed issues. If you are running Vista go buy Windows 7 today as any system running Vista can run 7 easily. Windows 7 will fix all your Vista issues.

Windows 7 – Yes, get there now.

Is the best operating system right now. In fact, Windows 7 is the best operating system Microsoft has ever released. Many people hesitated to upgrade to Windows 7 because of all the grief they experienced with Windows Vista. This is a shame. Windows 7 works well on almost any system including many old systems where it is not supposed to work. With the same firewall and User Account Control from Windows Vista, 7 is a very secure and agile operating system. Make sure you buy Windows 7 Pro or Ultimate so you also have the Windows XP Mode support. Windows XP Mode is an excellent virtual machine allowing you to run anything that will not run in Windows 7 under an emulation of Windows XP. XP Mode has been a great tool. Combine it all and we have no idea why anyone would not be running Windows 7.