Today Microsoft have releases the latest Windows OS, Windows 10, as a free upgrade for most existing users.The main aim for Microsoft is to stay competitive against Apple and Google who are ramping up their offerings for the same audience. Windows 10 is a significant shift in direction for Microsoft and its new leadership and its flagship product.
Here’s what you need to know about the latest Windows release.
1. There is an expiration date for the upgrade
The release date of Windows 10 is today, 29th July 2015 and the free upgrade is valid for 12 months so you need to upgrade within that time.
2. Windows is now a service
Windows 10 users will receive updates as time goes on. There will be three to four upgrade packs a year that include new features,” said JP Gownder, a vice president and principal analyst with Forrester. “Windows as a service means you won’t be stuck with some 10 year old OS, as many were with XP, but it does require a little rethinking of resources, even these upgrade packs require some testing along the year.”
3. You have to be ready for the updates
Unlike earlier versions you will have less choice about updates unless you modify the OS itself. It’s important to know if you can handle the deluge of service packs that will come with this new system, You won’t have much time to “settle” into the new service packs before the next one comes.
4. You can only upgrade from certain versions
You must be upgrading from Windows 7 or 8.1. Availability of the upgrade for Windows Phone 8.1 varies depending on your devices brand and service supplier. You’ll also need to have Windows Update enabled.
5. There are different versions of Windows 10
There are still the same versions of Home and professional but some are merging so Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, and Windows 8.1 Home will give you Windows 10 Home. Windows 7 Professional and Ultimate, and Windows 8.1 Pro and 8.1 Pro for Students will get Windows 10 Pro.
6. Follow best practices for deployment
Any new Operating System has a disruptive effect, there is teething problems when you find out what will or wont work with your system. There is also the time in finding your way around so don’t upgrade during a busy time, if you have a few machines then do one first, followed by the others as you gain experience.
7. Upgrade for security
Windows 10 is more secure than it’s predecessors so upgrading could bring some added security.
8. It doesn’t (technically) require new hardware
If your system is running 7 or 8 then you should be able to run Windows 10 without any major changes. It always makes sense to have the highest specification equipment that you can afford. You might need new hardware to make use of new features such as Windows Hello or the advanced security. Unfortunately, in may cases, new hardware won’t be available until later this year.
9. It’s a new user experience
One of the most contentious aspects of Windows 8 was its tile-based design. Some loved it, while others switched back to the standard desktop view immediately. Windows 10 is aimed to provide the best of both tiles and the standard desktop, and will be optimised for mobile usage.
“If you have a detachable keyboard, such as a Surface Pro 3 then Windows 10 will choose desktop mode if the keyboard is attached, and to use tile mode if it isn’t.
10. It might not be perfect – yet
No new operating system is perfect on day 1 but Windows 10 has gone through some extensive testing and it may well have a faster uptake as it’s free that means more fixes will be available faster. We have been using it for some time but even we do not know all the answers at this stage so bear in mind that anything you want to know wont be available on Google, this is when you find out how good your supplier is with support. Some companies will also not offer support on Windows 10 until they have fully trained their technicians in a few months time.
11. How to get it
Its available either as an upgrade to existing systems or as an ISO which makes a DVD with a full system. You will need a valid Windows 7 or 8 key to install it on a new system so don’t think you can buy a new system without an OS and install it later. In any case you will need a good Internet connection or a prepared DVD.
12. Is it really free?
Yes and no, The upgrade is free for a year and after that it will cost, it is also suspected that in future there will be charges. Premium services and Apps from the store will also be charged for sometimes.
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