July 29, 2015 is a much anticipated day for geeks and non-geeks alike. That day marks the release of Microsoft’s Windows 10 operating system. It’s also a special day because Windows users will once again have a start button.
Historically Microsoft has only sold Windows; either with a PC (through OEM licensing) or as a standalone license. Windows 10 will be a free upgrade for owners of Windows 7 and 8 (8.1) for one year after its release. Microsoft has imposed very few requirements to be eligible.
That trapezoid shaped icon on Windows 7 and 8 machines is not a virus. Windows included that notification in one of its latest update packs. Clicking the icon will reserve a copy and download it on July 29 when it is ready. After the 3GB file is downloaded it will prompt you to install.
Almost every user of Windows 7, 8 or 8.1 is eligible for the upgrade. Previous copies of Windows which came preloaded on a computer or those that were purchased separately are eligible. Users of corporate versions of Windows are not eligible.
Microsoft told us that any computer capable of running Windows 7 will run Windows 8. Now they’re telling us that any computer capable of running 8 or 8.1 will be able to handle 10. This means that if you already own a Windows 7 or 8 computer you’re all set as far as the technology requirement is concerned.
Here’s a question that I’ve not heard addressed yet. The Windows 10 upgrade will be free for only one year. So, for example, in a little over a year if my hard drive crashes after making the upgrade will I still be eligible for 10? My suggestion for owners of better quality machines is to consider replacing the hard drive prematurely to avoid a problem next year.
Microsoft requires that Windows 7 and 8 machines are up to date with the latest service packs installed prior to upgrading. This means that if you have a little yellow or red mark next to the pennant in the notification area you should address this. No matter, being up to date isn’t a bad thing.
You will be required to have a Microsoft account through Hotmail, Bing, Outlook or any other Microsoft website. Setting up an account is free and easy. As I understand, accounts from other email providers like Gmail and Yahoo will not be allowed.
The computer being upgraded should be free of viruses and malware to avoid issues. Sometimes simply uninstalling unwanted software is adequate; however, many times additional software needs to be run in order to remove malware. Malwarebytes is a good free title that can be downloaded and used to remove some junk.
Windows 10 combines elements of 7 and 8 to make a very usable interface. We’ve been playing with it on one of our test laptops for the past couple weeks and I’ve heard nothing but favorable opinions from my employees. 10 is built on the platform that started with Vista and has undergone some facelifts. Instinct tells me 10 is here to stay.
Even though Windows 10 will be released July 29, I suggest not downloading and installing the upgrade until mid August. Let Microsoft work the kinks out of the upgrade package, especially if your computer is used in a business environment. I fully expect those of you who were frustrated with Windows 8 to enjoy having a start button once again.
(Jeromy Patriquin is the President of Laptop & Computer Repair, Inc. located at 509 Main St. in Gardner. You can call him at (978) 919-8059 or visit www.LocalComputerWiz.com.)