ATM migration to Windows 10 – the time is coming

Far future comes sooner than it seems. The banking sector will face a big challenge in 2020. Microsoft made the official announcement: Windows 7 (operating system for many ATMs) extended support will end on January 14, 2020. Consequently, all banks have to update the entire ATM network by installing a new operating system caring about data security. 365 days is a short time to prepare for such important changes. 

There are about 3.5 million ATMs in the world. They are used daily by billions of people, but only a few know that most ATMs work on the Windows operating system. Paradoxically, but a lot of ATMs around the globe are still running Windows XP embedded, long after Microsoft ceased support with security and stability patches. Support for Windows XP was discontinued in 2014, which means that since then the Microsoft Company has not rolled out any security updates for this Windows version. 

In June 2018, The Central Bank of India issued a statement saying that all ATMs in the country should be updated from Windows XP to the newer platform until December 2019. It is estimated that about 50% of ATMs use Windows XP operating system. 

Expenditure or investment? 

It‘s time to get prepared for ATM migration to Windows 10 process. It is not a secret - many banks tend to delay it. What is the reason? It seems to be extra costs for a bank. Does this need to consider as expenditure or investment? 

Undoubtedly, it must be seen as an investment. Not just an investment into new software, but into ATM network safety. That means investing into bank’s reputation. 

So, why is it beneficial to migrate to Windows 10? 

• Greater security is ensured. This operating system is compatible with the latest PCI and VISA safety standards. The Secure Boot requires that any program that begins as the operating system startup needs to be signed off by both Microsoft and the hardware manufacturer. Security additions with Windows 10 make the Secure Boot feature tamper-proof.
• It is the most suitable platform for making ATMs work as an extra distribution or sales channel.
• Windows 10 reduces maintenance costs by getting the latest software and security updates. ATMs with outdated software support can be risky and expensive.
• Long-term investment. Microsoft is about to support Windows 10 operating system to 2026. This will allow financial organizations to plan their expenses for ATM software. 

What are the Windows 10 benefits? 

Windows 10 is not just an operating system for ATMs in the technologies era. It is a platform for intuitive solutions helping the banks to know their customers. The banking equipment and software suppliers, like Diebold Nixdorf, and banking solutions developer BS/2 offer innovative solutions to banks, whose functions include not only the cash issue. 

According to demand data of 2017, 77% of banking sector representatives believe that ATMs as an extra distribution channel, offering clients personalized services and individual solutions, influence will rise until 2020. 

Modern ATM is becoming a multifunctional device, which stands out because of its intuitive use.  Moreover, they have to predict customers’ needs and desire, give feedback to banks. For example, according to the query history, an individual services package (long-term car lease or loan) that the customer can order by click is automatically developed. 

Three type of migration 

According to experts, the transition to Windows 10 can last from 12 to 15 months, depending on the ATM network.

Currently, there are 3 types for updating the operating system: 

• Software update - install new software into existing ATMs.
• Updating not only the software, but also the processors used in ATMs.
• System equipment updating is carried out in the event that the replacement of processors is impossible. 

However, the ATMs migration to Windows 10 is a long and complicated process. Financial experts advise not to postpone it at the last minute and not to risk its safety and reputation, which can be compromised by using an obsolete unsafe operating system.