Windows 10: What You Need to Know

Windows 10 Launch and Upgrade Details

The release of Windows 10 is scheduled for July 29, 2015. Microsoft has initiated promotional efforts, targeting users of both Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 with notifications appearing in the system tray.

This upgrade to Windows 10 is being offered at no cost. It is anticipated to be a significant improvement for those currently utilizing Windows 7 or Windows 8.

The Drive for a Unified Windows Experience

Microsoft’s objective is to consolidate recent Windows installations onto a single, consistent operating system. This standardization aims to create a unified Windows platform.

A key component of this strategy is the promotion of universal apps available through the Windows Store.

A Positive Shift Following Windows 8

Following the challenges presented by Windows 8, Windows 10 is demonstrating considerable promise.

The new operating system is being viewed favorably as a return to a more user-friendly and effective Windows experience.

Related: Information regarding legal sources for downloading Windows 10, 8.1, and 7 ISO files can be found elsewhere.

Windows 10: Availability and Cost

For a significant number of users, upgrading to Windows 10 is offered at no cost. This applies to computers currently operating with Windows 7 Service Pack 1 or Windows 8.1. Provided the upgrade is initiated within the first year of release, no payment is required.

Despite circulating misinformation, the upgrade remains free under these conditions. Continuing to utilize Windows 10 and receive updates is guaranteed for the "supported lifetime of the device" following a timely upgrade.

However, users with older operating systems like Windows Vista or earlier versions will not be eligible for the free upgrade path. Consideration should be given to acquiring a newer computer if an outdated system is currently in use.

Furthermore, those running a non-genuine, or pirated, copy of Windows may still be able to upgrade. However, the resulting Windows 10 installation will also be flagged as "non-genuine."

Purchasing Windows 10

A purchase is necessary when building a custom computer or installing Windows 10 within a virtual machine environment. The cost for Windows 10 Home is $110, while Windows 10 Pro is priced at $199.

If the initial one-year free upgrade period lapses, a purchase will also be required to upgrade an older system to Windows 10. This is contingent on Microsoft not extending the original offer timeframe.

windows-10-is-almost-here-heres-what-you-need-to-know-1.jpg

Upgrading to Windows 10

Related: A guide on removing the "Get Windows 10" icon from your system tray and halting upgrade notifications.

Update: The Windows 10 ISO image is now available for direct download from Microsoft’s official website.

The upgrade to Windows 10 will be facilitated through Windows Update upon its release. Microsoft introduced the "Get Windows 10" application to allow users to register their interest in receiving a copy of Windows 10. Consequently, notifications will appear in the system tray on computers running Windows 7 SP1 and Windows 8.1.

The Windows 10 notification displayed in your system tray is authentic and originates directly from Microsoft. This application was integrated into your current Windows installation via a standard Windows update.

By "reserving" your copy of Windows 10, your computer will incrementally download the necessary files prior to the official launch date. This proactive approach eliminates the need to download a large installer simultaneously with numerous other users when Windows 10 becomes available. It functions similarly to preloading a game or film before its release.

If you intend to upgrade upon the release of Windows 10, reserving your copy now is highly recommended. While reserving isn't mandatory – a free upgrade will be available for the first year – it will significantly reduce download times later. Microsoft will likely provide a dedicated website to guide you through the upgrade process when Windows 10 is officially launched.

Although the upgrade process is designed to preserve your personal files, maintaining regular backups remains a prudent practice. The upgrade application will also alert you to any potential compatibility issues with your existing hardware or software.

windows-10-is-almost-here-heres-what-you-need-to-know-2.jpg

What's New – And Is an Upgrade Recommended?

Related: The Enthusiasm for Windows 10 (And Why You Should Share It)

Microsoft aims for Windows 10 to represent a compelling upgrade path for users of both Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. It’s constructed upon the foundation of Windows 8, incorporating its desktop enhancements and security protocols. However, Microsoft has addressed the most criticized elements of Windows 8.

The charms bar has been removed. The familiar Start menu has been reinstated – it defaults to live tiles, but these can be customized or eliminated. The "modern" or "Metro" interface is now restricted to a dedicated tablet mode, with all applications functioning within windows on the desktop for standard PCs. This represents a significant improvement for Windows 8 users on non-touch devices, restoring a logical desktop experience.

For those utilizing Windows 7, Windows 10 provides access to the advancements introduced in Windows 8, presented within a more intuitive interface. Additional features, such as "Task View" for virtual desktops and enhancements to the Command Prompt, are included, likely to be appreciated by Windows 7 desktop users considering an upgrade.

Microsoft’s new "Edge" browser is established as the default, ensuring a better browsing experience even for users who prefer not to change browsers. While recent versions of Internet Explorer have improved, Edge still offers substantial advancements. The Cortana assistant is integrated, though availability is currently limited to select countries.

Windows 10 is replete with other beneficial improvements, and – unlike some of the more intrusive features of Windows 8 – these can be disabled if desired. Microsoft is also actively promoting the Windows Store to desktop users.

These new "universal apps" now operate within desktop windows and have the potential to be genuinely useful. The free availability of Windows 10 is largely driven by the desire to establish a substantial platform that app developers will target, encouraging software compatibility across the Windows user base.

windows-10-is-almost-here-heres-what-you-need-to-know-3.jpg

Microsoft's Vision for Windows 10

Microsoft is emphasizing a distinct approach with Windows 10, differentiating it from prior versions. It has even been described as “the final version of Windows.” The company intends to deliver continuous updates to refine Windows 10 and introduce new functionalities.

The strategy involves ongoing feature enhancements and improvements distributed through Windows Update, rather than relying on infrequent, large-scale operating system upgrades. This approach mirrors statements previously made regarding Windows 8.

Many pre-installed applications will also receive independent updates through the Windows Store. This ensures users have access to the latest versions without needing a full OS overhaul.

Early indications suggest Windows 10 represents a significant improvement. While the current preview builds, released less than two months before the official launch, exhibit some instability, the potential is clear.

If Microsoft successfully addresses these issues in the coming weeks, Windows 10 is projected to be a valuable and advisable upgrade for users.

Live tiles, universal apps, and Microsoft account integration are present, but are not mandatory. These features are designed to complement the traditional Windows desktop experience, unlike the disruptive implementation seen in Windows 8.