Gmail will stop working on Chrome Browser version 53 and Below

On February 1, 2017, Google announced that Gmail is no longer supporting old chrome browser versions. The rumors are flying and questions are everywhere. So here is what you Really Need to Know.

Will this affect your Gmail experience? First, you need to check which version of Google Chrome you are using.

How to know which version of Google Chrome You Are Using

1. Open Google Chrome. In the top right corner, you will see 3 vertical dots. Click on the dots to open a window.

2. The window will look like this. Select “Settings” towards the bottom of the list.

3. The settings will take you to the Settings page within Chrome. On the left side click on “About”

4. Here is where you will see the version you are running. If you are running a version higher than 53 and you are not on a Windows XP or Windows Vista operating system – you are all set! Rock on! If you aren’t, or if you are running on Vista or XP – PLEASE KEEP READING! This post is for you 🙂

Running an Old Version of Google Chrome but Not on Windows XP or Vista

The solution here is simple, all you need to do is upgrade to the newest version of Chrome and you should have no Gmail issues! You can do that here.

Are You Currently Running on Windows XP or Vista?

Here’s The Deal

Microsoft no longer supports these older operating systems. What this means is that they aren’t providing software updates, fixing bugs, or closing gaps in vulnerabilities (i.e. Microsoft admits this technology is outdated, recommends an upgrade and doesn’t care what happens to these types of machines anymore.) As technology is released, the creators of these operating systems are always one step ahead of the hackers, they have teams in place to find vulnerabilities, bugs, and apply fixes before the issues become mainstream. This is why you are always being prompted to “upgrade to the newest software release.” Once the hackers hear they are no longer supported, this means they can exploit any and all vulnerabilities without push back from these tech giants. So if you are running these machines, it’s time to upgrade.

Can’t I Just Upgrade My Browser Version on Windows XP or Windows Vista computer?

Sure, but it’s not a good idea. Why? Because Google is explicitly telling you in advance that you are going to have the most issues, and thus will no longer be supporting Gmail on this platform.

Why Does Google Care What Microsoft Operating System I am Using?

Typically they don’t, and they also don’t announce when they are going to discontinue supporting older browser versions. Our 20+ years in experience as a managed service provider in New York has provided us quite a bit of dealing with outdated technology (as well as cutting edge technology) so we are aware of the vulnerabilities of working on older machines. What is especially interesting is Google’s stance on this,

“This announcement was made given the expected impact on Windows XP and Windows Vista users and known security risks.”

If Microsoft no longer supports it, and Google is advising you in advance of known security risks (which they typically don’t do) you can bet they are aware of big risks. Not only are there IT security risks to be aware of, but there are also functionality issues (these machines will slow down, may not be able to run certain software, etc.)

Typically we try to stay ahead of technology changes that may impact our clients, and this is no exception. We informed you of the dangers of using a free email service for your business a few months back (after the announcement of the Yahoo data breach, and now we’re advising you to upgrade your Windows XP and/or Vista machines if you haven’t already.

In Summary

When companies who created machines no longer stand behind them (Vista or XP) neither should you! Click To Tweet Upgrade your computer from Windows XP and Windows Vista to protect yourself, and if you are a business running Windows XP and Vista, contact your MSP and ask them their thoughts on the matter. If they do not recommend an upgrade find a new MSP 😉  We’re always happy to help!