Should I Upgrade to Windows 10?

Windows 10 was released today as a free upgrade if you have Windows 7 or 8 and pre-registered.  The free upgrade will be available until the end of the year so there is no big rush to upgrade just yet.  I am currently upgrading my laptop as I write this blog post...but I have always been an early adopter of new technology.  So far Windows 10 is the smoothest upgrade to date from Microsoft, but there are still a number of things to consider before taking the plunge.

What's New in Windows 10?

Think of Windows 10 as a sort of a hybrid between Windows 7 and Windows 8.1.  First off they brought back a Start Menu, it is just a new style from the one you were familiar with.  Also, there is a new virtual assistant named Cortana built in to the operating system, a new web browser called Edge and some new features if you have an Xbox One.

Should You Upgrade?

I think you should definitely upgrade and I know you want your Start button back, but I wouldn't necessarily be in a huge rush to do so today.  Windows 10 has the functionality and usability of Windows 7 with some pieces of Windows 8 integrated so it will work well with most of the programs and websites you use today.  However if you are still using that 10 year old version of Photoshop or Microsoft Office 2003 you may need to upgrade those programs as well.  Also, if you are using any old programs from the XP days, they will most likely not work with Windows 10.  So if you just can't let your beloved ancient computer programs go yet you better not upgrade until you feel comfortable putting those programs to rest.

How do you get the Upgrade?

You have to be running a legitimate copy of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 to get the upgrade.  You also have to have your Windows Updates current.  Once you have your Windows totally up to date you should see the "Get Windows 10" app down by your clock in the lower right corner of your screen.  Click the Windows flag icon and reserve your free copy.  Microsoft is releasing Windows 10 in waves so you will be notified when your upgrade is available.  When it is just follow the prompts begin the process (oh, and allow up to 2 hours when you begin the upgrade!).