Possible to Continue Using Windows 7 Isolated from Internet?

[ArtMurphy]

I intend to disconnect my Windows 7 system from the internet and use it as an isolated workstation to do graphics work solely with Ron Scott's QFX -- an app which runs perfectly on Win 7 but has intermittent "issues" on Win 10.
I intend to use thumb drives to import/export files and I would also use a scanner and a printer attached to this system -- neither of which is supported anymore so no internet updates are required for either.
By isolating this system from direct online connection(s) and scanning all imported files I hope to avoid issues with malware, viruses, hacks, etc.
Here are some questions I have:

Am I deluded?

What are the pitfalls with this idea?

Is it feasible?
Is it even worth doing?


FYI: I have no philosophical beef with Windows 10. I use it on two other computers and like it very much. It's just that the QFX app is one I've used since 1989 and is extremely productive for me. I know it well and it is not bloatware like so many graphics programs today.

It is fully mature. No more updates are forthcoming for it and there is no subscription fee. If it worked flawlessly on Win 10 I'd say goodbye to Win 7 without regrets.

 

[SIW2]

Of course you can do that.

Many people will continue using win7 online for a few years yet. At least as long as there is browser and (secondarily) a/v support.

Offline you can keep going forever.

Windows 7 end of support - What to do next guide

 

[Lance1]

If you are online and have updates enabled you already have KB4530734 which was installed December 10, 2019. On January 15, 2020 you will receive a dally full blue screen warning from M$ telling you that your running a discontinued OS and that you are vulnerable. That'll be a pain!

 

[billmcct]

You can also read this and see if your interested in trying it.
Bypass Windows 7 Extended Security Updates Eligibility | My Digital Life Forums

 

[Lance1]

You can also read this and see if your interested in trying it.
Bypass Windows 7 Extended Security Updates Eligibility | My Digital Life Forums

Interesting read! Thanks for posting. I have two more towers in the closet I haven't touched in a couple of years. This will give me something to play with. Good choice of beer by the way....

 

[billmcct]

I have already installed the updates on two Win 7 laptops successfully and hopefully MS want circumvent it.
The drawback is having to search for and install updates manually although if "Brink" keeps up his monthly listings of Win 7 updates here on the forum then that will make things easier.

EDIT: If MS does circumvent the workaround there is always 0patch.
Welcome to the era of vulnerability micropatching - 0patch

 

[RoWin7]

The OP doesn't need new updates if they're off the net.

 

[torchwood]

Hi

As previously posted, If your off-line you only have to think about what your downloading
On your >>download<< comp ALLWAYS scan the file you require with your AV then transfer is to a USB to install on your offline comp.


Roy