You're probably just like all of us here at Channel 3 and use your computer all the time. But for many Microsoft users, upgrading computers recently is problematic and costly.
Computers become a security blanket for us. We get comfortable with them and we depend on them. But soon, Microsoft users will either have to pay to upgrade computers or pay to keep them the same.
If you've bought a computer within the past couple of years, chances are the operating system is Windows XP.But the new Windows Vista, has caused many problems with software compatibility and the cost of running the program efficiently.
Robert Gates, Computer Sales and Service: "You had to go buy new software in a lot of instances to make in work under Vista. And people are strapped financially in this day and age and if you can't afford it...well you need to run out and get 400 bucks in new software. People can't afford that".
Microsoft announced that before long, they're going to stop providing Windows XP, forcing everyone to either upgrade, or run the risk of being left behind in technology.
For those who want to buy a new computer, but wish to continue the XP version, well you can. But it's not quite that easy, or cheap.

Josh Alexander, Best Buy Supervisor: "It's fairly costly because you have to buy the XP operating system and then either install it yourself manually or pay us to do it".
Buying the old XP package runs about 60 bucks and having it installed at a store could easily run you upwards of a couple hundred dollars. But the giants at Microsoft have also announced that the company will release their newest project, Windows 7, either in late 2009 or early 2010. And for many, they'll wait for Windows 7, and skip Vista altogether.
Anthony Congi: "This computer right here. I'm going to install Vista for free on it, would you use it?" Gates: "No."
Due to the backlash of so many customer complaints, Microsoft has extended the sale of Windows XP until this summer. After that, you'll have to decide to either upgrade, or wait for the new Windows 7 which will have a Vista core, but with the feel of XP.