Windows 10 – should you or shouldn’t you?

The deadline is approaching! 

July 29^th is the official end to Microsoft’s free upgrade to Windows 10.

While there is some creditable speculation that a follow-up offer will come soon after, if you’re interested in upgrading, best to be quick!

So, should you upgrade?

If you’re running Windows 8…why wouldn’t you?   Consider that Windows 10 is Windows 8 done properly.

For those with Windows 7, this was a solid well designed and relatively efficient interface that you are used to.  The key to Windows 10 is that it hasn’t strayed too far from this successful formula while also bringing a host of new features including:

·       The start menu is back with more functional than ever

·       Action Centre – a very useful Tool bar for apps & persistent notifications

·       Universal Apps – for PC’s, Phones and Xbox

·       Cortana – Digital Assistant

·       Phone Companion – Setup your phone with your PC and other Microsoft services

·       Virtual desktops – very useful for multi-tasking without multiple monitors

·       Resizable command prompt – Tech heads will be cheering…trust me!

It also adds a level of future proofing, so in short… Why wouldn’t you?

Well.. some reasons you may decide against the free upgrade are:

·       Your system doesn’t meet the upgrade requirements

·       You use older or obscure peripherals

·       You don’t want to be forced to update

Upgrading at work

If you’re sitting at work and thinking about running the Windows 10 Upgrade…DON’T!

Leave it to your I.T. guys!

(BTW – For those using Windows 7 at work…as of 31^st October 2016, new computers will no longer ship with Windows 7.  Something to think about moving forward!)

Upgrading at home

So you’re thinking about upgrading your home PC…WHAT COULD GO WRONG?? :).   All jokes aside, if something does go wrong Microsoft has built a very effective roll back feature so you can go back if needed.

Hints and tips for upgrading:

1. Minimum PC specifications
   1. 16-20Gb of free space left.
   2. 1Ghz CPU
   3. 2Gb RAM (4Gb is realistically the minimum for most people)
   4. Graphics support DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver.  How many will check this?
2. Use a solid Internet link because you’ll be downloading about 3Gb.  A 4G connection with a 1Gb limit could become costly!
3. To reduce compatibility issues, updating or upgrade your applications (especially your Anti-virus)
4. If you’re technically minded, apply the latest firmware and BIOS updates from your PC vendor.  Old versions have been known to cause problems.
5. Unplugging peripheral devices has fixed some upgrade problems.
6. Microsoft has also already compiled a list of issues and Installation errors. Here

In short, for work systems leave it up to your I.T. provider as they are in the best position to decide.

For home systems it’s your decision, but make sure you consider the pro and cons beforehand.

If you do take the plunge and upgrade – remember, if you have problems google is your friend…and so are your I.T. guys.   But don’t wait until the evening of July 29^th !