The IT corporation’s latest OS is an ideal upgrade for Windows 8 users, but it may not have all the features certain users need, a technology journalist has said.
Writing on The Post and Courier website, Kim Komando said that in light of the “disasters” of Windows 8 and Vista, computer users are wise to question whether upgrading to Windows 10 is a wise move. The software will become available as a free upgrade for Windows 7, 8.0 and 8.1 later this month, and will be available for a year after its release.
Advice is given against upgrading if your device has old peripherals, as older scanners and printers may not get updated drivers. This may not be a problem for devices less than five years old, thanks to USB connection and universal drivers, but “if you have something that’s 10 years old, then it’s a risk”. The article recommends readers check online to see if their model has been tried for compatibility with the new model.
Those who “hate” Windows 8 are advised to upgrade, as the Start button and menu have returned and apps are “windowed” like regular programmes. Control options adjust automatically depending on whether the OS is working on a computer or a tablet.
[adrotate banner=”248″]
Vista users are advised not to upgrade as the computer is “probably more than five years old” and while Windows 10 will run faster on the same hardware, it works best with newer computer components such as motherboards with UEFI and “solid-state hard drives”. The free upgrade is not available for Vista users, so they will have to spend $100 (€89) which may be better saved “toward buying a new computer”.
Komando says “better performance” is a reason to upgrade as the updated software is “faster, clean, more secure and has better support for newer hardware than even Windows 7”, adding another “level” of security and performance optimisations which should mean it will run better than 7 or 8 on whatever computer it is being used on. Replacing Internet Explorer is the “faster and more secure” browser, Microsoft Edge.
However, the commentator warns not to upgrade if there are features you need that Windows 10 does not provide, such as the Media Center programme, which some Microsoft customers may use for their home entertainment system, although Komando says that most of these applications are not “deal breakers” for the average user.
It is advised to upgrade if you’re buying a new computer, as those with machines over five years old can chose between one of the remaining Windows 7 computers, “gritting your teeth” and buying a Windows 8.1 and waiting for the 10 upgrade, or buying a system with the new programme pre-installed. The writer notes that Windows 7 computers won’t have the hardware benefits of a Windows 10 newer model, while it may be worth avoiding the “hassle” of installing a Windows 8.1 device and then Windows 10 when it comes out.
A final caution Komando gives is to wait a few months after Windows 10 arrives before upgrading, as “there are bound to be some kinks for Microsoft to work out”.