Windows 10 News Update

It has been nearly a month since Windows 10 has released. For those that have not upgraded, are you still wondering whether it is worth the free upgrade? How about for those of you that have already upgraded: are you aware of everything you need to know about Windows 10?

Everything you need to know about Windows 10:

Current update

Windows 10 is currently on its third cumulative update, KB3081438. If you have previous updates installed, only the new fixes that are contained in this package will be downloaded and installed to your computer. Be certain to download the update, as it includes improvements to enhance the functionality of Windows 10. The update also fixed the Windows 10 store issues.

Data Collection and Privacy Policies

Have peace of mind and be aware of Microsoft’s data collection and privacy policies as they are comparable to what other tech giants have been doing. We recommend that you change several of the default privacy settings. You could also set up a new account with an alternate email address to protect your privacy, but then you will be giving up a good chunk of Windows 10 functionalities. Click here to read a well-written article about everything you need to know about Windows 10’s privacy issues.

Costs

The software is free during the first year if you’re upgrading a new or existing Windows 7, or Windows 8.1 device and you will only have a full year from release date to take advantage of the free upgrade offer.

Compatibility

Windows XP and older systems are not compatible with Windows 10 however, so if you are still running Windows XP or older systems, you will have to buy Windows 10 and start from scratch.

Mandatory Automatic Updates

You won’t have to wait around for Microsoft to release Service Packs after many months, because Windows 10 will be updating all the time. This applies to both home and business users, unless the latter group turns to dedicated tools that allow them to have more control over how updates are installed. Basically, you have to go out of your way to keep Windows 10 out of date. If you do not want automatic updates, you can temporarily prevent a Windows or driver update from reinstalling in Windows 10. Click here for Microsoft’s walkthrough. It is recommended that you do not turn this off.

Windows features

• PCs will boot up and run apps faster, while remaining more secure
• Longer battery life for laptops
• Popular shortcuts are recognized instead of having to right click and selecting a command (i.e. ctrl + v versus right click -> paste)
• Start Menu gains “live tiles” and is fully customizable
• New Edge browser that pushes Internet Explorer into retirement
• A virtual voice assistant, Cortana, is at your beck and call
• On some systems, you’ll be able to log in with your face, iris or fingerprint.
• Fresh version of Office
• Improved support for gamers
• New built-in Photos, Maps, Music and other apps that will universally run across the entire Windows 10 ecosystem: PCs, tablets, phones, Xbox One.

Worth the free upgrade?

Windows 10 is currently worth the free upgrade if you’re using Windows 8.1 on a laptop or desktop PC. You might not want to upgrade to Windows 10 if you are using a touch screen device due to its tablet mode being worse than its Windows 8.1 counterpart.

If you are upgrading from Windows 7, you will benefit from access to new apps from the Windows Store and huge improvements in Direct X12 graphics. If you use multiple Windows 10 devices – such as smartphones, tablets, laptops – or if you use Microsoft apps on iOS or Android, then it could be worth upgrading from Windows 7 to benefit from the integrated ecosystem. But if you are a traditional desktop user with one PC, then it probably is not worth it.

Make sure you secure your files before performing your Windows 10 update. If you need assistance, reach out to Valeo Networks so we can help you secure your files! Backing up your important files and documents has never been more vital, since there can always be unexpected drawbacks to upgrading software in its early stages. Everything we do or see is now accessed through our PC, laptop, smartphone or tablet. Your files are currently exposed and vulnerable to hard drive failure, fatal viruses and accidental deletion.

Not waiting to upgrade? Call Valeo Networks so we can help you navigate through these changes.

Valeo Networks, LLC (Valeo Networks) is a trusted partner in IT support and services, providing technology solutions that are designed to take your business to the next level. No matter what your IT requirements are, the Valeo Networks experts can create, implement and support a technology strategy that will fit your business and budget.

Call one of our regional offices, (805) 222-4977 (California) or (321) 848-0340 (Florida) to discover why many businesses count on us for dependable IT solutions today.

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