This is What Happens If You Connect Windows XP to the Internet in 2024

Connecting a Windows XP system to the Internet in 2024 can lead to disastrous results. Despite its age, some people might still use Windows XP due to legacy hardware that doesn't support newer operating systems. However, Windows XP is highly vulnerable to modern cyber threats due to its lack of updates since 2014.

Here is the experience of Eric Parker, a YouTuber who analyzes the various threats that can weigh on your PC, particularly on older systems. So he decided to test what an Internet-connected installation of Windows XP would look like in 2024. Parke demonstrated these vulnerabilities by connecting an isolated virtual machine running Windows XP to the Internet.

Within minutes, the system was under attack. Various malware and viruses began to install themselves, compromising the system.

One piece of malware created a user account named "admin" and set up an FTP server, while another connected to multiple external domains, including some in Russia. The attacks were relentless, with new user accounts appearing, each with control over the machine. Even after installing Malwarebytes, Parker's system had eight detected viruses. Moreover, on Windows XP, certain files with .dat extensions can function as an executable, something that is impossible on modern Windows. Hackers seem to be using this technique to attack such old systems.

For those who must use Windows XP with Internet access, it's crucial to implement strong security measures, such as running legacy software or hardware. This includes using firewalls, regularly updating any software that still receives updates, and avoiding internet connectivity if possible. However, searching for security tips on a newly connected XP machine is not advisable due to the immediate threat of malware infection.

While tips for securing such outdated systems are available online, using a fresh XP installation to search for these tips is not advisable. It exposes the system to severe security risks as Microsoft stopped providing updates and patches for XP in 2014.

In summary, using Windows XP online today poses significant security risks, and it's best avoided unless absolutely necessary and with robust security preparations in place. However, Windows XP is still in use on more than 5 million machines worldwide, notably in hospitals, but more surprisingly also at NASA.

In conclusion, while nostalgia or necessity might tempt some to use Windows XP, doing so in 2024 without robust security measures is perilous. The risks far outweigh the benefits, making it a dangerous choice for anyone needing to connect to the internet. Using modern operating systems with current security support is the best practice to avoid these significant security risks.