cost to changing operating systems. But due to Microsoft's deliberate destruction of compatibility with older software and hardware there are MAJOR costs associated with going to new a new version of Windows. Switch from Windows XP to Window 8 and you need new copies of MS Office and most of your other software as non of your existing software will work on Win 8 worth a damn, and most of your peripherals won't work either and it's doubtful you'll get drivers for them too.

It's these costs that stop most businesses from changing up to a newer OS as it costs them way to much to do so.