“It is with hearts full of sadness that we have decided to separate,” wrote an emotional Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin yesterday, following ten years of marriage.

“We have been working hard for well over a year, some of it together, some of it separated, to see what might have been possible between us.

“We have come to the conclusion that while we love each other very much we will remain separate.

While this may be the most talked about separation of 2014, Microsoft's ending love affair with Windows XP software will have greater impact on the wider world.

A relationship which began blissfully thirteen years ago, how ironic that in being one of Microsoft's greatest creations, Windows XP has proved rather difficult to remove due to its global popularity.

The zombie operating system that just won't die, in only a matter of days it will finally cease to exist in Redmond, because when April 8 arrives, only the fools will be left behind.

And what about those who acknowledge the threat, anticipate the end of support date yet remain abandoned on XP software?

Upgrading…

Firstly, users and businesses can check whether they are running XP or not by visiting www.amirunningxp.com, an official Microsoft website providing immediate feedback.

For those still on XP, an in-depth user friendly tutorial is available - detailing how to upgrade to Windows 8.1 from Windows XP or Windows Vista.

The simple five step upgrade can be found by clicking here

Data transfer…

Microsoft has partner with Laplink to provide users with a free data transfer following their upgrade, with Laplink PCmover Express for Windows XP representing a hassle-free way to move files, settings and user profiles from old Windows XP computer to new Windows PCs.

To use Laplink, all that is needed is an old Windows XP computer and a new Windows 7 or later PC both connected to the Internet.

Then follow the simple instructions by clicking here

Compatibility…

Extending the migration support further, Microsoft's Windows Compatibility Center lists thousands of the most popular apps and devices to users easily identify what will or won't work with various versions of Windows.

Users can use the site to get links to driver downloads and software updates, as well as view what other users have to say about product compatibility.

This can be found by clicking here

For more information on how to move away from Windows XP click here