Not so fast!  Although the mainstream support for the widespread Windows 2000 user base is ending, extended support status begins on July 1, 2005 (to keep consistent with the Microsoft Support Lifecycle policy).

PCWorld writes --

"The move to Extended Support isn't as drastic as it sounds. [Microsoft] will continue releasing free security patches, and your Windows 2000 PC will continue to download and install them automatically. Technical support will still be available; it will cost money, but no more than it does now. The current rate is $35 per incident, though most companies that are using Windows 2000 have long-term support contracts.

What will change? You'll need a special support contract to receive updates that aren't security-related. And there will be no new features. AssetMetrix Managing Director Steven O'Halloran, the primary author of the report, doesn't see these as big problems. 'You can still call Microsoft and get help. The price and quality of support won't change,' he predicts."