As the Windows 10 launch date is announced, what upgrade options are available?
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 10 will launch on 29 July, as a free update to existing users. Already, an update for Windows 7 and Windows 8 allows early adopters to reserve a free copy. It will show users when the download becomes available via the free ‘Get Windows 10 App’. (http://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/windows-10-upgrade?OCID=win10_null_vanity_win10upgrade). The free upgrade option is valid for one year from the launch date. Theoretically, the update will be a smooth move from the currently installed OS to Windows 10, without affecting any applications or data.
For business users, your existing copy of Microsoft Windows 8.1 Pro, Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 Ultimate will be upgraded to Windows 10 Pro. If your office has an IT support team or person, they will be able to offer advice on upgrading. If not, we can offer advice on migrating to the new OS, backing up existing data, ensuring your business IT security is sufficient and providing support beyond the update. Even though the process should run smoothly, with millions of different PCs and applications, there are bound to be a few issues.
To check if your PC is compatible, or powerful enough for Windows 10, you can use the ‘Check your PC’ option within the Upgrade Advisor section of the Get Windows 10 App. If your PC is already running Windows 7 or 8 smoothly, then it should run Windows 10 just fine, as there are no major, performance intensive updates.
Windows 10 provides business users with an easier transition from your PC to mobile device or tablet, allowing users to pick up where they left off. There is improved access to cloud apps, like Office 365 and cloud-stored data, better use of virtual desktop for busy multi-taskers and improved updates for better system and online security.
In terms of features, Windows 10 adds Cortana voice assistant and search to the desktop, which may or may not be welcome in an office environment. The new Edge browser is faster and more efficient than the retired Internet Explorer, but users can still work with Chrome or Firefox if they prefer. If you want a total system upgrade, then a whole new range of PCs and tablets will be launching, led by Microsoft’s updated Surface devices (https://oswin.com/microsoft-surface-3-and-surface-4-devices-add-to-business-choice/).
