You may have heard that Windows 10 was released on Wednesday – July 29.
Microsoft is offering a free upgrade to Windows 7 and 8.1 users.
You can do this by clicking on this little icon on your system tray.
While the price is right, I recommend that you wait before you make the jump to upgrade your computer to Windows 10.
Stay, Go or …
Whenever a client asks me if they should stay with Windows 7 or 8.1 or go to Windows 10, I recommend that they wait and see and here’s why:
- Although Windows 10 has been tested by some people, the real test starts, in my opinion, when the new operating system ‘goes live’ this week.
- People who upgrade immediately may experience bugs and missing features as well as overloaded Microsoft servers until the kinks are worked out.
- Your third party software may not be fully compatible with Windows 10 yet. This includes anti-virus programs, photo/video viewing/editing software, etc.
- Drivers and other software for some hardware devices such as multifunction printers may not exist or work properly.
Since the free upgrade offer is valid for a year, I suggest that you wait and see so that you can avoid wasting valuable time and costly problems.
How to be Prepared
In the meantime, here are some things to do to get ready for the Windows 10 upgrade:
- Full backups of your data, programs and operating system need to be checked. If you don’t have any yet, this summer is the perfect time to have me help you get them up and running. You may need to revert to your image backup if something goes wrong.
- Gather all of the media for software that you have purchased or downloaded as well as the license keys.
- Install all of the updates for your operating system, other software and hardware at once.
- Check that your hardware and software are compatible with Windows 10.
When You Are Ready to Upgrade to Windows 10
Experts are suggesting a clean installation of Windows 10. This reformats your hard drive and will wipe out any hidden malware as well as other issues. That way you’re not bringing old problems with you.
The upgrade of an operating system can be a difficult task for many people.
If you need assistance with the preparation and implementation of this upgrade, Proven Solutions can help you.
Our professional services include all of the above recommendations and much more.
Please feel free to contact me to discuss this project or with any questions that you may have.
Proven Solutions Inc. has been providing computer services and sales to Toronto, Ontario and the surrounding area (GTA) for over 20 years.
Feel free to contact Proven Solutions at any time.