Outdated Tech Tools You Should Retire Now
Technology evolves quickly — and some tools that were once common are now obsolete or even dangerous. Continuing to use discontinued software or hardware can leave your business exposed to security threats, compliance issues, and poor performance.
Even if old tech still seems to work, it’s likely no longer receiving vital security updates. And without those patches, systems become easy targets for cyberattacks. In fact, around one-third of data breaches happen due to unpatched vulnerabilities.
Beyond security risks, outdated technology can also hurt your business reputation. Customers may see you as outdated or untrustworthy, and employees who deal with slow, frustrating tools could become disengaged — or even quit.
✅ Reasons to Upgrade Your Tech:
- Lower risk of cyberattacks
- Stay compliant with data privacy laws
- Build customer trust and credibility
- Improve team productivity and satisfaction
- Avoid compatibility issues
Here are some discontinued technologies you should stop using right away:
1. Internet Explorer
Once the dominant browser, IE was officially retired by Microsoft on June 15, 2022. It lacks modern security features and web standards support.
➡️ Switch to: Microsoft Edge or another modern browser like Chrome or Firefox.
2. Adobe Flash Player
Once essential for multimedia content, Adobe Flash became a major security liability. Adobe ended support on December 31, 2020.
➡️ Replace with: HTML5, WebGL, or other modern web standards.
3. Windows 7 (and Earlier)
Microsoft stopped supporting Windows 7 on January 14, 2020. No more security updates mean increased vulnerability to hackers.
➡️ Upgrade to: Windows 10 or Windows 11.
4. macOS Mojave (10.14) and Earlier
Apple has stopped supporting macOS versions before Catalina (10.15). Older Macs running Mojave or earlier miss out on critical security fixes.
➡️ Consider: Upgrading to the latest macOS version your hardware supports — or upgrading your hardware.
5. Oracle 18c Database
This database version lost full support in June 2021, making it a high-risk target for cyberattacks.
➡️ Move to: Oracle 19c, 21c, or the latest supported release.
6. Microsoft SQL Server 2014
Mainstream support ended years ago, and extended support ends in July 2024. Waiting too long to upgrade increases security risks.
➡️ Migrate to: SQL Server 2016 or later, or Microsoft Azure SQL for cloud-based solutions.
Protect Your Business by Staying Up to Date
Outdated technology might still be running, but it’s quietly putting your business at risk. From security gaps to missed productivity opportunities, clinging to old tools can cost more than you think.
Let us help you assess your current systems and smoothly transition to updated, secure, and efficient technology. Don’t wait for a breach to expose outdated tools — schedule a tech review today!