Are you running a PC office environment? Mark July 29th on your calendar as a day for a big change. That’s the day Microsoft releases Windows 10, and there a number of things you should know about making the switch.
If you have a licensed version of Windows 7 or 8.1 home or pro, you will be able to upgrade to the same version of Windows 10 for free through Windows Update for all of your devices. Some hardware and software requirements apply, and the feature availability may vary depending on the device you are using.
Microsoft is offering this upgrade as a complete product, fully supported without a trial period or subscription. If you currently have a licensed copy of Windows 7 or 8.1 home or pro, you can upgrade for free. Downloads will begin on July 29th; at roughly 3GB of data, make sure you have a good connection before you attempt the download.
If you are running Enterprise, edition costs will vary depending on your licensing level.
How will Windows 10 change what you do?
To start, there are a few things Windows 10 will no longer offer.
Windows Media Center is gone. If you use it for the DVD feature, Windows 10 comes with a DVD player. But if you use the Media Center for other features, be aware that it will disappear and you will have to replace it with another product.
Vendor apps may not be compatible with Windows 10, so you should consult specific programs before your make the switch to avoid complications in the way you run your business every day.
Desktop gadgets from Windows 7 will no longer exist.
Now on to what Windows 10 will have.
The changes you will find with Windows 10 will be substantial. Microsoft is no longer making Windows 10 an operating system just for 32 and 64 bit PCs. It will also run on the ARM platform for tablets and smartphones as well. Its strength will come from the number of people using a Windows platform, and by allowing companies to develop universal apps and apply it within their own product development (similar to Android).
The key feature to Windows 10 is the redesigned user interface. If you didn’t upgrade to Window 8, the upgrade won’t change significantly. You will still have a Start menu, and key functions are all accessed through the Taskbar. If you did upgrade to Windows 8, the Charms are gone so there will be a slight transition as you find your way around. Instead of Charms, you will have an Action Center in which you can control your connectivity features. You can control your connections and settings from here, including the ability to connect with various media tools, and be able to schedule quiet hours where you won’t be disturbed by popups and notifications.
A new addition you’ll love is the Task View. Microsoft has experimented with different ways of switching between open apps and windows in previous editions, but may have gotten it right with 10. When you go to Task View, it takes you to an app overview where you can use your mouse to see all open apps and click on the one you want. It also has multiple desktops, that allows you to enable different desktops with a click of a mouse. This feature has been available on the Mac for years, so if you’ve desired the same ability on your PC, this will be a feature you’ll soon grow to love.
Windows 10 will also offer a tablet mode, making it easy to switch from PC to tablet with their 2 in 1 PCs with detachable keyboards. Tablet mode is automatic; detach the keyboard and the desktop enables for touch. The Start menu becomes the Start screen, and you’re ready to take your applications on the go.
Windows 10 is going to be a big improvement, whether you are currently using 8 or are still on version 7. If you have any questions about how to integrate it into your office environment, just ask.
