When it comes to Microsoft¡¯s operating systems, Windows XP has been by far the most popular. However, in 2014, it killed the security updates and support for the operating system, marking its inevitable end. However, looks like Russia¡¯s Vladimir Putin doesn¡¯t want to give up Windows XP on his computer anytime soon.
First reported by Open Media news, recent images of Vladimir Putin revealed his computer in the background with a blue taskbar -- reminiscent of the one seen on Windows XP.?
While it does seem shocking that the IT team under Putin isn¡¯t doing a great job of keeping their leader safe from hackers, in actuality, Russian officials are banned from using foreign software in order to protect them from foreign espionage while also promote Russia¡¯s tech industry.
Press images have revealed Putin using Windows XP not just at his PC at Kremlin, but also at his official residence in Moscow.
According to Defense Ministry export control documents cited by the Open Media report, Windows XP was the last operating system that was officially permitted for use in Russian government offices. As of now, Windows 10 is only allowed to be used in offices that don¡¯t possess data pertaining to the security of the state.
Russia is already working to promote Russian-based software and operating systems and plans to replace Microsoft and Apple software with them by 2025-2030.
The bill is passed with a motive to help Russian software companies progress by promoting their products on the devices sold in the domestic market.
The passing of this bill wasn¡¯t taken positively by western device makers with Google, Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Dell, IBM, LG and others opposing it, warning that this could lead to a decrease in business activity in consumer electronics and software markets.