Windows POSReady 2009 ends, what this means to your business?

Just like PC’s, POS terminal operating systems are phased out as new versions are launched. The Windows XP operating system was originally launched in 2001 and Windows POSReady 2009, launched in 2009, was based on this.

As such, newer versions have since been released and the 2009 version has almost reached end-of-life (EOL). This means, if you are running this operating system, you will need to upgrade your software or replace your pos terminals to avoid the possibility of major issues.

What does End-of-Life mean?
As Microsoft launches new versions of Windows, EOL processes are kicked-off to wind down previous versions. Prior to the end of mainstream support, Microsoft will continue to provide security patches and provide bug fixes but will discontinue the provision of new service packs or features. The final deadline implemented is the end of extended support where both security patches and bug fixes are also discontinued. Find out more here.

Microsoft operating systems current EOL extended support deadlines are as follows:
Windows POSReady 2009 – April 9, 2019
Windows POSReady 7 – Oct 12, 2021

What does this mean for my business?
After this date, if your POS terminals (or PC’s) are running the Windows POSReady 2009 operating system and you encounter any security or operational issues, neither Microsoft nor Triniteq will be able to provide support.

Businesses that do not upgrade or replace these devices will, unfortunately, have a much higher risk of a data breach once they are no longer receiving security updates.

Plus, if your Triniteq software stops working correctly on these POS terminals, as you will be running an unsupported version of Windows, Triniteq will again be unable to provide support.

Finally, Power ePOS, Triniteq’s new cloud-based POS software due for release later this year, will not be compatible with Windows POSReady 2009 (but it will be compatible with Windows POSReady 7).

How do I know which operating system my POS is using?
Just follow these easy steps to find out if this important change will affect your business:

1. Close Waiterpos then click on the Windows Start button
2. Go to All Programs > Accessories > Accessibility > On-Screen Keyboard
3. Using the On-Screen Keyboard, press the Windows Logo then press the R button.
4. The run command will be displayed. Ensure that the cursor is in the white field next to the Open text and enter 'winver' using the On-Screen Keyboard, then press 'OK'.

5. 'About Windows' will be displayed and will show the version of Windows that is installed.

6. If you see Windows Embedded POSReady 2009, you are running the affected operating system and will need to either upgrade your operating system (if your hardware supports it) or alternatively, upgrade your POS terminal hardware.

If you have difficulty identifying your operating system version, please contact Triniteq support.

I am running Windows POSReady 2009 – what next?
If you are running Windows POSReady 2009, you will need to either upgrade your operating system (if your hardware supports it) or alternatively, upgrade your POS terminal hardware.

Don't wait until your POS terminals are unsupported and/or not working.

Get in touch with us straight away so we can help you to avoid any EOL-related issues. Call Triniteq on 1300 784 666 or email us and we'll get right back to you.

Need more information on this update? Get in contact with us today.