Viking Supporters Co-operative
Viking Chat => Off Topic => Topic started by: Donnywolf on July 26, 2015, 12:30:58 pm
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Hi my Techno advisors
I am being "hounded" already to download or at least pre register for the upcoming change to Windows 10
I was on Windows 8 and then they "hounded" me to go to 8.1. I resisted for months as I was happy as I was .... but then one day the PC just said Downloading 8.1 even though I had not said I wanted it unless they sneaked my approval by default
So I am wondering firstly is 10 going to be "better" than 8.1 ? I don't do much in truth just E-mail and your average browsing Google Maps and that kind of stuff so would this enrich my life ?
Then secondly will I get a choice in the long run or will they manage to swap everybody anyway - so that resistance is futile ? They may pull the Plug on 8 and 8.1 and leave people no choice
Any thoughts / pointers very welcome as usual
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Don't bother. They can't force you to upgrade.
New operating systems are notorious for causing lots of problems. I wouldn't even think of upgrading to it until it had been out for at least a year to give them chance to get all the problems sorted.
I'm still with Windows 7 and it does everything I need. From what you've said, you don't use your computer that much so ignore the marketing hype and stick with what you've already got.
IC1967
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10 will be a lot better than 8. Not only is the Start button back, it also allows for desktop virtualisation. It allows you to create a brand new verison of the desktop (i.e. running apps, etc) whenever you want, so if you are say doing some proper work (for work) and also want to have Viking Chat, the OS and Facebook running, you can create a separate desktop for each so you can focus on one or the other fully. Various Linux distros have offered this for quite a while (Ubuntu in particular), so its nothing new in computing terms, just takes a while for Microsoft to rip everyone else's ideas off.
Win10 is a free upgrade for a year. If you resist beyond the year and then decide to buy it, you will have to pay for it.
One thing to bear in mind is that by taking Win10 you are authorising Microsoft to install every single update they release for it. For most users that wont be an issue, but for some who would rather be selective there needs to be given some thought to that before upgrading.
For what its worth, I've preregistered every Win8.1 and Win7 device in the house as I'm a tight Yorkshireman and the "owt for nowt" draw was just too much.
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Don't bother. They can't force you to upgrade.
New operating systems are notorious for causing lots of problems. I wouldn't even think of upgrading to it until it had been out for at least a year to give them chance to get all the problems sorted.
I'm still with Windows 7 and it does everything I need. From what you've said, you don't use your computer that much so ignore the marketing hype and stick with what you've already got.
IC1967
I agree with you. And now I'm terrified.
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10 will be a lot better than 8. Not only is the Start button back, it also allows for desktop virtualisation. It allows you to create a brand new verison of the desktop (i.e. running apps, etc) whenever you want, so if you are say doing some proper work (for work) and also want to have Viking Chat, the OS and Facebook running, you can create a separate desktop for each so you can focus on one or the other fully. Various Linux distros have offered this for quite a while (Ubuntu in particular), so its nothing new in computing terms, just takes a while for Microsoft to rip everyone else's ideas off.
Win10 is a free upgrade for a year. If you resist beyond the year and then decide to buy it, you will have to pay for it.
One thing to bear in mind is that by taking Win10 you are authorising Microsoft to install every single update they release for it. For most users that wont be an issue, but for some who would rather be selective there needs to be given some thought to that before upgrading.
For what its worth, I've preregistered every Win8.1 and Win7 device in the house as I'm a tight Yorkshireman and the "owt for nowt" draw was just too much.
1) how do I get it?
2) will it wipe my computer?
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1) There should be a Windows logo in the bottom right of your Task bar if you are eligible for the "free upgrade". You then just say "yes" and get it on its launch day
2) I have no idea hence my opening post
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The free offer is only open for 12 months, so you will need to take the upgrade by the end of July 2016, but as others have said it is probably worth waiting until they have sorted some of the inevitable early issues out - they issue what they call "Service Pack" updates to fix the bugs. I would expect at least one Service Pack to be issued within the next year.
Having said that, if you're only a light user, you probably won't notice the minor bugs that need fixing.
RedJ - no it won't "wipe" your computer.
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I'm still running XP. Lol. I know. Reckon I will have to pay for this new thing? Damned if I want them installing all sorts of unknown crap on my machine though. If they get DRM stuff on, for example, I'll be completely snookered. Maybe it's time to abandon Microsoft altogether?
BobG
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I'm still running XP. Lol. I know. Reckon I will have to pay for this new thing? Damned if I want them installing all sorts of unknown crap on my machine though. If they get DRM stuff on, for example, I'll be completely snookered. Maybe it's time to abandon Microsoft altogether?
BobG
You wouldn't believe what business systems still run XP
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Bring back 3.1.1!!!!
BobG
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My computer at work still runs on XP, funnily enough...
Back on point, I don't have that get windows 10 app. Any ideas?
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My computer at work still runs on XP, funnily enough...
Back on point, I don't have that get windows 10 app. Any ideas?
Have a look at http://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/windows-10-faq
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XP is excluded.
Bob
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XP is out of support and is extremely vulnerable to malicious code. You should really upgrade to Win7, at the very least. I could "help" you with that if you were a bit more local, Bob. <cough, cough>
Only W7 and W8 are supported with free upgrades to 10. I have 4 laptops running win 7 or win 8.1 (plus a Win8 tablet) so I'm going to take 10 on one of the older ones and give it a blast before committing to the others. What I've seen of 10 looks good (although the Start button is a cross between the win7 start button and the Win8 "Metro" app skin, and "Recent Documents" seems to have been consigned to the IT bin in the sky).
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RTR
Problem with owt beyond Win7.x is that you have to re-install all the software on your PC.
I regularly use 20-odd year old mathematical analysis software which is perfectly fine for my purposes, but which would cost £2k for a new licence with all the bells and whistles that I really don;t need. But, as I don't have the original installation discs, I wouldn't be able to install it on a Win 8-10 OS machine.
So I'm playing the dug-in-heels onld man, refusing to upgrade.
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RTR
Problem with owt beyond Win7.x is that you have to re-install all the software on your PC.
I regularly use 20-odd year old mathematical analysis software which is perfectly fine for my purposes, but which would cost £2k for a new licence with all the bells and whistles that I really don;t need. But, as I don't have the original installation discs, I wouldn't be able to install it on a Win 8-10 OS machine.
So I'm playing the dug-in-heels onld man, refusing to upgrade.
You need this - http://www.howtogeek.com/213145/how-to%C2%A0convert-a-physical-windows-or-linux-pc-to-a-virtual-machine/
Create the image of your current machine, move it elsewhere and then upgrade to Win10. Then install VMWare or VirtualBox and run your created image of Win7 and decrepit software in the VM. Has the added advantage of you being able to keep a copy of the VM as a backup too.
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As for Win10 itself, if you have a newish machine that you think you're going to keep for a long time (five years for Win7, seven years if Win8.1) then it's worth doing. If your machine is a few years old or is already underpowered then it's not worth doing. Extended support for Win7 runs out in 2020 and Win8.1 in 2022. Those OS's will be fine until then and will outlast the life of most of the cheap, craply made laptops and desktops on the market.
From the developer previews Win10 looks to Win8 like Win7 was to Vista.
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I'm just praying it will be better than 8.1, my laptop hasn't worked properly since I updated it from 8 and I have tried everything I can think of even taking everything off and going back to a factory reset.
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I'm just praying it will be better than 8.1, my laptop hasn't worked properly since I updated it from 8 and I have tried everything I can think of even taking everything off and going back to a factory reset.
Not sure how you thought that would help :woot:
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I thought the shock would kick start it...... ;) :lol:
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:woot: :woot: :lol: :lol: :lol:
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Good advice all round as usual
I have just read "preparing your PC for Windows 10" and seeing what it involves I have decided .... bugger it .... leave well alone and stick with what is currently working !
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I'm still running XP. Lol. I know. Reckon I will have to pay for this new thing? Damned if I want them installing all sorts of unknown crap on my machine though. If they get DRM stuff on, for example, I'll be completely snookered. Maybe it's time to abandon Microsoft altogether?
BobG
You wouldn't believe what business systems still run XP
The British Army still works on XP
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I'm still running XP. Lol. I know. Reckon I will have to pay for this new thing? Damned if I want them installing all sorts of unknown crap on my machine though. If they get DRM stuff on, for example, I'll be completely snookered. Maybe it's time to abandon Microsoft altogether?
BobG
You wouldn't believe what business systems still run XP
The British Army still works on XP
The British Government paid Microsoft over £5m to extend updates to XP when the normal ones ended last year... that's just lapsed and they haven't extended it further so you'd think they've upgraded to Win7 by now... probably.
Anyone still running XP will get battered eventually. Still running XP now is a bit like going on the M62 on a space hopper.
I've just installed Win10 on my work laptop. To be honest it's fine, the only bits that don't work are the ones where I've tried to be too clever for my own good. It even goes away and downloads the correct drivers for the ones that don't work properly. I can't find anything that doesn't work (even our ancient crappy BCM phone software that's runs on java worked first time!) although the new Edge browser is a bit too modern and I've quickly binned it in favour of Firefox and reinstating IE11.
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I've just upgraded one of my laptops too, Rios. Like you say, its fine. I quite like the new start menu with the live tiles too
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Does anybody know if you can get rid of the tiles that you're not going to use? That's what I really hated about Windows 8, all the those tiles clogging up the screen and I don't use most of them.
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I think you can just right click and then either uninstall or delete from start menu
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Right click and select unpin
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I still haven't even got the f**king option to upgrade...
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Are you running Windows 3.1.1 still?
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I'm on 8.1
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I haven't got a f**kin clue what you're all on about.
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Give Windows the heave ho, and install a Linux system.
Best one for you depends on how old your computer is. Lots to choose from, but best to stick to something which has lots of users/support.
Ubuntu and Linux Mint are popular with many, Lubuntu and Linux Lite if you have an older PC.
You can install them alongside your current Windows, if you want to keep your old system as well.
Go to Distrowatch.com, which contains reviews and links.
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Download the choice as an iso file, then burn it to a blank CD or DVD.
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Insert the CD/DVD, and boot into it from your Bios. Magic key on mine is F2 when the screen first loads.
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Follow the instructions when it loads.
Simple enough really. Linux does not really get malware like Windows does, it is much more secure to use.
http://www.wikihow.com/Install-Linux
Its FREE as well.
You can add various bells and whistles to suit, but don't need to have stuff on there you never use. Its like putting apps on a mobile.
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I'm on 8.1
If it's a hookey version, it won't give you the option. If it's a genuine version, contact Microsoft.
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RedJ - you need to ensure you have installed all the Windows Updates. If you have windows update not set to "automatic updates" then you could have a few outstanding. The W10 logo should then appear down in the tooltray (bottom right near the clock). You could try clicking the little up arrow near there if there is one - it could just be the W10 app notification is in the hidden list.
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I'm on 8.1
If it's a hookey version, it won't give you the option. If it's a genuine version, contact Microsoft.
Definitely a genuine version.
RedJ - you need to ensure you have installed all the Windows Updates. If you have windows update not set to "automatic updates" then you could have a few outstanding. The W10 logo should then appear down in the tooltray (bottom right near the clock). You could try clicking the little up arrow near there if there is one - it could just be the W10 app notification is in the hidden list.
Had a play about with some of the settings as the updates screen wasn't working at all and I've found a load that hadn't installed for whatever reason. Hopefully after that it'll let me upgrade.
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Give Windows the heave ho, and install a Linux system.
Best one for you depends on how old your computer is. Lots to choose from, but best to stick to something which has lots of users/support.
Ubuntu and Linux Mint are popular with many, Lubuntu and Linux Lite if you have an older PC.
You can install them alongside your current Windows, if you want to keep your old system as well.
Go to Distrowatch.com, which contains reviews and links.
1
Download the choice as an iso file, then burn it to a blank CD or DVD.
2
Insert the CD/DVD, and boot into it from your Bios. Magic key on mine is F2 when the screen first loads.
3
Follow the instructions when it loads.
Simple enough really. Linux does not really get malware like Windows does, it is much more secure to use.
http://www.wikihow.com/Install-Linux
Its FREE as well.
You can add various bells and whistles to suit, but don't need to have stuff on there you never use. Its like putting apps on a mobile.
As someone who's used Linux for ten years, Ubuntu and Linux Mint at home, as well as Centos at work I'd be all over Linux... in fact my laptop at home has Mint on it which I use everyday and it can do everything and more than my work Windows 10 laptop. But installing a new OS onto something is beyond the capabilities of most people who don't care about the differences between Bios and Uefi or how to dual boot or that installing an LTS version is the best way to go. Until manufacturers start pre-installing Linux on devices (like the Dell XPS13) it will never be of interest to ordinary people.
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Very true, and a shame, Rios.
I like Linux. I've used quite a few of the distros, such as Ubuntu, Mint and SUSE, and you are right about the pre-installed issue. Microsoft clearly never saw Linux as a genuine contender for their market share, but Android has scared them witless, particularly in the tablet market space, hence the change last year to give away W8.1 licenses to manufacturers instead of charging them for the software. This has meant that the savings have been passed on to consumers with very basic (but still serviceable) W8.1 laptops now being available from about £150 brand new. W10 , and its common platform across PC, laptop, tablet and phone, coupled with its "giveaway" offer should see Microsoft cement its position at the head of the pack for another 5 years at lease. It must be absolutely galling for the dedicated groups of people who are part of the Linux community that their hard work doesnt reach an audience beyond a few % of all PC users.
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It's only galling for the likes of Shuttleworth at Canonical, who sees himself as an open-source Steve Jobs, bringing Linux to the masses (and then jumps into bed with Amazon completely destroying any community credibility he had!) Microsoft were scared enough, especially when netbooks starting coming out with Linux pre-installed as Vista wouldn't run on them, to push through the EUFI spec and make Linux installation on roday's computers as difficult as possible without ending up in court.
Linux desktop users (myself included) actually quite like that normal people don't use it. It's market share of 1% means there's no malware or viruses to speak of and a certain technical snobbery that goes along with that.
It's in the server and mobile space that Linux has really cleaned up. The vast majority of super computers are now Linux based. 81% of mobile phones use Android. Microsoft has a paltry 11% share of the webserver market, the rest being made up of various Linux solutions (Apache, ngix, google, etc). Apple and Android have shown that users aren't actually that bothered about all their devices running the same desktops. iPad sales certainly haven't converted everyone to Mac's and Windows 10 won't convert people to Win10 tablets either.
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Still not having it. There's obviously something I've not done but Christ knows what.
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Still not having it. There's obviously something I've not done but Christ knows what.
Have you tried turning it off and back on again?
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Try this.
www.makeuseof.com/tag/windows-10-upgrade-notification-enable/
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I agree with people about the pre-installed issue with Linux.
My post was aimed at folk still using using XP or Vista, who do not get the free upgrade to Windows 10 for some reason. Just to make people aware that there are alternatives before paying more money to Bill Gates.
If you are going to splash out over £100 plus to upgrade, then you could get your computer shop to put Linux on for you for less than that.
I did it myself, after watching a how-to video on YouTube, and was surprised how easy it was these days. I agree that people who get put off by techy stuff might find it too much, but once you get sorted I think it kicks ass compared to bloated crap like Vista.
Anyway, good luck to those taking the Windows challenge.
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Done all the updates, tried the thing you have to post into notepad but the command prompt tells me it "cannot open" several lines of text.
Also telling me it can't find batch label specified CompatCheckRunning.
Take it that's bad news then?
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You could try contacting Computer Active magazine, they might know what's going on if they've received similar stories..? They might have a forum or website you could check...
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I'll have a look, cheers.
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For anyone having issues doing this, try this.
Got to the stage of downloading Windows 10 on the tool, so hopefully it'll work out...
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows-10/media-creation-tool-install?ocid=ms_wol_win10
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If it still thinks you haven't got a genuine version of Windows already it'll try to charge you to authorise it.
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would those that have upgraded recommend upgrading to anyone else on 7 or 8.1?
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Generally yes, only problem I've got is that it doesn't recognise my trackpad driver unless I uninstall it then re-start, then it's fine until W10 installs another update and I have to go through the process all over again.
Hopefully at some point they'll fix this glitch.
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Generally yes, only problem I've got is that it doesn't recognise my trackpad driver unless I uninstall it then re-start, then it's fine until W10 installs another update and I have to go through the process all over again.
Hopefully at some point they'll fix this glitch.
Hi Muttley - If you read my OP I suspect you will understand why I am asking " what the hell is trackpad driver please ?"
I have already backed up my files and made a mirror image of my system by following the instructions on CNET and so have edged closer to actually moving to W10 ....BUT ... CNET says it has easy to follow steps 1-9 but all I can find to work with are Steps 1 to 5 - so where are the other 4
Strangely Drivers are an issue getting mentioned on every "advice" Site and I have no idea how to make sure I am ready to press the download W10 NOW button
So I am still thinking f*** it - if it aint broke don't fix it
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A trackpad is the pointing device situated in front of the keybowrd on a laptop that does the same job as a mouse.
A "driver" is a bit of software that enables the various pieces of equipment (eg mouse, keyboard, printer etc) attached to your computer to actually work with your computer.
The issue I have got sems to be limited to the specific trackpad installed on my model of laptop, so probably won't affect you.
Ultimately, you should upgrade to W10 in the 1 year window when it is free as Microsoft will cease to support previous versions of Windows which will lead to them being vulnerable to viruses etc, but if you're a bit nervous it may be worth you waiting a few months to allow Microsoft to iron out the minor issues.
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Thanks for that .. a Trackpad ... now I know !
I will hold off installation for a while till I am confident enough to do it or find an absolutely foolproof guide - so like a Rovers goal from open play it could take a while :scarf:
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There is a "How To" guide here, for those still having trouble;
How to Install Windows 10 on Your PC (http://www.howtogeek.com/197559/how-to-install-windows-10-on-your-pc/)
Someone told me they wanted you to pay extra to watch DVD's, which is cheeky if it is true. I bet they have found a way to enter your wallet by the backdoor.
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Ok. I've read this thread all the way through. But I thinK I need slightly different advice. I'm still on XP. I know that's dangerous and going to be more so. But I don't really want to pay for a new OS from MS - especially as it is clear it's taking spying to a whole new level. So, for a guy who uses t'internet via Firefox, Word, Excel and email via Thunderbird and watches Rovers videos on VLC what OS would be the right one to go for - bearing in mind I really am a numpty about installing all this stuff.
Many thanks everybody
BobG
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Bob G,
With Linux, it depends on how old your hardware is.
The BEST Replacement For Windows XP - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItmVYDA2txw)
With each new edition, some small changes to the process are introduced.
I put Linux Lite on an old Toshiba laptop from 2004 ish, which came with XP, and it runs well.
Linux Lite Easy to Use Free Linux Operating System (https://www.linuxliteos.com/)
Check if your computer is running a 32 or 64 bit system. If you have had it from before about 2007 it is likely 32.
You can check out if your hardware is compatible under "settings" from the menu on their site.
The new upgrade for Linux Lite comes out on Sept 1, so try it after that date.
Linux Lite has good info back-up through the forum and an excellent help manual.
You download the system as a .iso file, then need to burn the image to a blank DVD. Loads of how to vids on YouTube.
Another good alternative is Lubuntu;
lubuntu | lightweight, fast, easier (http://lubuntu.net/)
If you think it is too much to do yourself, a competent computer shop should do it in under an hour.
At £25 an hour, still decent value for money.
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as I said earlier Bob you would be amazed what business systems still run XP
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There is a "How To" guide here, for those still having trouble;
How to Install Windows 10 on Your PC (http://www.howtogeek.com/197559/how-to-install-windows-10-on-your-pc/)
Someone told me they wanted you to pay extra to watch DVD's, which is cheeky if it is true. I bet they have found a way to enter your wallet by the backdoor.
Hi Albie
Yes I found that one but what I really need is a similar thing telling me (in terms I can understand as a Techno dunce) what to do BEFORE starting to download Windows 10
Using CNET Site I have copied every file I have - then did a "mirror image" of my Computer to an external drive ... then I ran out of things to do.
CNET says there are 9 things I SHOULD do but they list only 1 to 5 (of 9) and I cant find a continuation page . So I am still wondering what the other 4 things are and have not yet found if there are indeed 9 things or more as other Sites are not as good as CNET seemed it was going to be
Cheers DW
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To be honest if you have done a complete back-up of your computer, I'm not sure what else you would need to do. If it goes horrendously wrong (highly unlikely), you've got a back-up you can restore.
I didn't bother doing any back-up (although I've nothing of any value stored on my laptop), just hit the update button and I haven't had any issues.
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I've upgraded 3 of mine now.
Lenovo core i5 laptop - problem with the screen brightness control. Trying to change the brightness caused it to lock on to minimum brightness and wouldnt change. I had to roll out the graphics driver and install an older one. now working. Lenovo presumably to issue a new graphics driver.
Linx 10 windows tablet - no problems at all. everything works.
Samsung core i3 laptop - 2 finger scroll not working in core microsoft apps (but 3rd party apps like firefox and opera work fine). a new win10 trackpad driver has been released, so I'll try that sometime.
Overall, nothing major has gone wrong, just a few teething troubles. To be fair, its only a few weeks "in the wild" so these issues will get ironed out as the OS matures.
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Thank you Albie.
It's 32 bit. The BIOS dates from 2005 so I guess it's somewhere about that age. It's got plenty of RAM :)
Now I've watched the vid you linked, can I ask a few more questions though please?
1) Is everything, everything, wiped when Linux is installed? Apps as well as OS?
2) The guy blithely said 'check for updates' once Linux is installed. Won't I have to set up the broadband first?
3) Will all the programmes I've been using with XP work with Linux? Firefox, Thunderbird, VLC, Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Picasa, AVG, printers, ZoneAlarm? I bet I haven't got the install discs for half of them now.....
4) Should you back up just my data? Or the whole caboodle?
Many thanks chaps. This is all a bit worrying! I'm a numpty with pc's.
Bob
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Bob,
If you are really anxious about it, get a computer pro to do the grunt.
I like tinkering, but not everybody is like that.
1) Yes, Linux will wipe your hard disk completely if you choose to install it.
You can also create a live CD, which will operate independent of the hard drive if you choose. Given the age of your computer, it is likely it will not boot from USB, so a DVD is the best option.
You can install Linux alongside XP if you want, but it is a bit more difficult to do. See video;
How To Dual Boot Linux Lite with WindowsXP - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tybm8TToQ-U)
The bottom link explains it in writing, under "install guide".
You don't have to do this though. I just backed up my docs and wiped Windows from the hard drive.
That is why you need to take back ups of everything you wish to save. Any photos, music, documents.
2) It is best to connect to the web with an ethernet cable when doing this.
Plug in to the back of the router.
After installation, you need to put in your wifi details to connect your new operating system.
3) Linux comes with its own suite of software, but each Linux OS offers different combinations.
Linux Lite has Firefox and VLC, and comes with Libre Office as the default Office package. The idea is that you can add compatible software of your choice from the repository.
There is a Linux firewall, but no real need for anti virus protection. There is a AV called Clam for Linux, but most do not see the need.
4) Everyone should really back up their data, and have a recovery disc of their operating system to reload it should the need arise. Windows used to supply one with earlier systems.
If you download Linux, and burn it to DVD, then you have the OS for future re-installation.
You can buy a Linux system on DVD here;
Linux CD Shop - : UK Linux Shop supplying Linux CDs, DVDs & USBs with Free UK Delivery, 24Hr Dispatch. (http://www.thelinuxshop.co.uk/catalog/index.php)
To find out more, the Linux Lite manual has some useful explanations;
Linux Lite - Help Manual (https://www.linuxliteos.com/manual/)
Check out the install section.
Good luck.
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Thank you Albie. Brilliant advice. Now I need to find a weekend with nothing happening don't I? As it's the end of the cricket season almost I might have a chance of that soon.
Many thanks again
BobG
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Donny Wolf
I hope you got sorted out. Without seeing the CNET article it is difficult to know what is missing.
This might help;
Update to Windows 10 Headache Free With A Pre-Upgrade Checklist (http://www.howtogeek.com/225241/update-to-windows-10-headache-free-with-a-pre-upgrade-checklist/?PageSpeed=noscript)
Bob G
New version of Linux Lite out today. On their website.
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I can't believe I've read through 3 pages of this topic to prove I am the ultimate dinosaur.
I get the free upgrade thingy but am ignoring it as this laptop does everything I need ie Switch on and enable me to go on the internet. (Is it still called the internet or am I behind there, too?).
What new features are in Windows 10 that will possibly enhance my usage of Windows whatever I'm on now? (I have no idea what version of Windows i'm on. How do you know?).
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What new features are in Windows 10 that will possibly enhance my usage of Windows whatever I'm on now? (I have no idea what version of Windows i'm on. How do you know?).
Press the Windows and R keys together. In the box that pops up type in winver
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Donny Wolf
I hope you got sorted out. Without seeing the CNET article it is difficult to know what is missing.
This might help;
Update to Windows 10 Headache Free With A Pre-Upgrade Checklist (http://www.howtogeek.com/225241/update-to-windows-10-headache-free-with-a-pre-upgrade-checklist/?PageSpeed=noscript)
Bob G
New version of Linux Lite out today. On their website.
Hi and thanks again albie
That is exactly the type of guide I needed ! It is far more comprehensive than the CNET thing which only ran from 1 to 5 (of 9)
As my OP stated and concurring with mugnapper 2 posts above I keep thinking "why" ? I am on a hiding to nowt as if I change to W10 and it ballses up I will be kicking myself - but if the upgrade is easy and goes without a hitch I still probably wont notice the differences
Nevertheless I will continue to mull it over and use the article from Howtogeek which will be very very useful
Cheers again DW
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Thanks Rios.
How the feck do you know stuff like that? Are you young? Do they teach it in schools?
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Thanks Rios.
How the feck do you know stuff like that? Are you young? Do they teach it in schools?
Working in IT for twenty years, you kinda pick up useless stuff like that. I'm glad I'm not young though, one of my younger collegues was absolutely dumbfounded when he had to fix a problem and couldn't "google it"! You'd be surprised at how little proper computing they teach them in schools, it's dumbed down to how to use Excel, etc.
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Exactly. I did an induction with an intern at work last week, and part of that involves them contacting the IT help desk to have their user account unlocked for first use. The It help desk internal phone number is 'Four Thousand", and the intern asked me if thousand was 3 zeroes.
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Upgraded to Windows 10 last week, not really had a chance to try it out until last night. Can't say I'm impressed, I'm pleased they brought the Start Menu back but the main issue I have is it's so slow! On 8.1, even though I didn't like it, my machine (nearly 2 years old but AMD quad core processor, 8GB RAM, 1TB hard drive) was pretty quick but everything just takes an age to run now. Will persevere for a bit but might have to go back to 8.1.
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I upgraded another of my laptops at the weekend (Core i3, 3GB RAM) and it runs like a dog with 10 on it.
Think I'll install Linux Lite and see how that goes instead.
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Finally cracked it.
Not keen on the start menu thing having the tiles.
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You can remove all them and have the ones you want instead.
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Finally cracked it.
Not keen on the start menu thing having the tiles.
This will give you the Windows 7 start menu back... http://www.classicshell.net/
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Upgraded to Windows 10 last week, not really had a chance to try it out until last night. Can't say I'm impressed, I'm pleased they brought the Start Menu back but the main issue I have is it's so slow! On 8.1, even though I didn't like it, my machine (nearly 2 years old but AMD quad core processor, 8GB RAM, 1TB hard drive) was pretty quick but everything just takes an age to run now. Will persevere for a bit but might have to go back to 8.1.
My laptop sneakily installed a Norton backup utility and a McAfee virus I don't want which sucked up massive amounts of CPU time. I think this is linked to Windows 10.
Have a look in Task Manager for stuff that you didn't install yourself.
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Both linked to Chrome and Adobe Flash/Acrobat installations. Sneaky drive-by downloads.
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Drive by downloads are a curse and should be illegal.
Anyone putting stuff on your computer that you have not requested is basically foisting malware your way. I know some of this stuff is not damaging as such but the people responsible have no real idea of the issues that may arise for some users.
I see Microsoft are at it again with Windows 10;
How to Stop Windows 7 or 8 from Downloading Windows 10 Automatically (http://www.howtogeek.com/228551/how-to-stop-windows-7-or-8-from-downloading-windows-10-automatically/)
If that article is right it means that users have to take action to stop these things happening. Informed consent works the other way round.
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Hi thanks for that Albie and if you look at my OP it was exactly what I was afraid of !
Now I have a dilemma for sure. Download 10 so I have a modicum of control or block 10 sticking with the 8.1 that they sneaked over the top of my 8
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I have upgraded to 10. There seems to be a few cosmetic improvements but nothing major which is of interest to me. Annoyingly though, when I start up my computer it doesn't recognise the router until I restart, then it does!
You try getting Microsoft to answer technical questions. You have to register and have passwords etc. More passwords are just what I don't need!
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has anyone experienced a "popup" security issue when clicking regular web links in emails (to websites you are familiar with)?
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I experienced a "popup" when I (accidently) clicked on some porn the other day.
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For research purposes, don't you mean?
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Oh dear, Microsoft have decided to take over your computer;
Microsoft's Windows 10 to 'automatically download' from next year | Tech | Lifestyle | The Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/microsofts-windows-10-to-automatically-download-from-next-year-a6716211.html)
What makes them think this is reasonable behaviour?
I suppose it allows them greater control over their customers, locking them in to more Microsoft products in the future.
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That really is a S**t !
I went through the "agony" of deciding yes or no in the Posts above and decided to stick with 8.1 as I just could not see any benefit to having 10 especially when the risks of stuff going wrong was factored in !
I was afraid that they would sneak 10 on my PC just as they had done with 8.1 when I did not want that either ... but now it appears they aint going to sneak anything on ... just overtly do it and f*** the "customers wishes"
What will happen I wonder if people DONT prepare and do back ups and all the other recommended "stuff". Bet Microsoft wont send a man round to fix their s**t !
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I suspect Linux might be the way....
Not that I've actually gone and done it yet! Still on XP SP3 me...
BobG
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Oh dear, Microsoft have decided to take over your computer;
Microsoft's Windows 10 to 'automatically download' from next year | Tech | Lifestyle | The Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/microsofts-windows-10-to-automatically-download-from-next-year-a6716211.html)
What makes them think this is reasonable behaviour?
I suppose it allows them greater control over their customers, locking them in to more Microsoft products in the future.
It's already happening, it's been reported in Computer Active and Web User for a few issues now. However, it's just downloading a big file 'in preparation' for a customer switching to Win10. If you don't go to Win10, it just sits on your hard drive taking up a lump of space but doesn't change the OS.
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Aye, its a rum do is this.
I feel sorry for those with older hardware whose capacity might not big enough to carry the extra. They will end up buying new kit when there is not really any need, all because Microsoft is clogging up the works;
Next year's Windows 10 auto-upgrade is MSFT's worst idea since Vista • The Register (http://www.theregister.co.uk/2015/10/31/windows_10_recommended_upgrade/)
Still, it seems that it is all tied in with the Windows phone, and that is where the next big profit is to be had.
These days it looks now that control of personal information is the product for tech companies. For some reason it always calls to mind this old Monty Python sketch from time was;
Monty Python - Blackmail - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrRZVCg31fE)
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Just set up your PC with a hooky version of Win7. Win10 detects that it's hooky and won't ask you if you'd like to upgrade!
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Looks like they are at it again;
Beware, latest Windows 10 Update may remove programs automatically - gHacks Tech News (http://www.ghacks.net/2015/11/24/beware-latest-windows-10-update-may-remove-programs-automatically/)
Beware. Here be dragons.
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"They" are inundating me at the moment
Every time I turn on / log on etc do I get anther advert saying "get it now" basically before it ceases to be free ! Well I have seen it will be free for ages
Also they are now saying "your files will be right there" once you have changed to 10 as well as a few other promises BUT where will they be if the thing does go t**s up ? Yeah nowhere to be found
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Still at it ... every time I turn on it says Windows 10 Get it now or Update later
I thought OK I will say Update later and they will leave me alone for a Month or so !
WRONG it immediately started to download presumably to keep it "in the background" till "later". Is there a way to get rid of it for a bit of peace OTHER than actually downloading the bloody thing ?
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Don't know, but you are right thinking its just going to download and hide in the background till it totally pisses you off with the reminders until you agree to update :)
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Don't know, but you are right thinking its just going to download and hide in the background till it totally pisses you off with the reminders until you agree to update :)
I was not bothered about changing as I said in my first pots. I would not gain anything really - and balanced that v the possible "why did I f*** with it" factor .... but now I am desperate NOT to change just because I know "they" are out to get me (everyone) swapped over.
It is really annoying now though with every opening of the PC and any seemingly random "button" bringing up the dreaded advert !
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This might be what you need, Donny Wolf;
How to Stop Windows 7 or 8 from Downloading Windows 10 Automatically (http://www.howtogeek.com/228551/how-to-stop-windows-7-or-8-from-downloading-windows-10-automatically/)
The series of articles on Windows 10 in "How to Geek" is worth a look;
windows10 Articles - How-To Geek (http://www.howtogeek.com/t/windows10/)
Best of luck.
Linux is still here, you can install it alongside Windows to try out if you want.
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Many thanks again Albie ... will have a serious look at a way to block it now although I suspect it is already lurking on my Hard Drive somewhere !
Luckily HD is 750GB so I probably wont miss 3gb !
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"They" are inundating me at the moment
Every time I turn on / log on etc do I get anther advert saying "get it now" basically before it ceases to be free ! Well I have seen it will be free for ages
Also they are now saying "your files will be right there" once you have changed to 10 as well as a few other promises BUT where will they be if the thing does go t**s up ? Yeah nowhere to be found
Actually, your files might not be there!
I ran (or rather it just ran itself!) the 1511 upgrade to Windows 10 the other evening. I had been working on a document from work and was saving it directly to USB drive. When the machine finished up installing the upgrade I couldnt open the document I'd been working on any more. It says it is corrupted. All other Word docx's open up fine.
Stuff you, Microsoft!
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Windows 10 seems to have sorted itself out for me now. After a few updates it is running fine, it was slow as a dog when I first upgraded. It's definitely not as good as Windows 7 though which we still use at work. Better than Windows 8, obviously that's not saying much.
Still, could be worse. I could have a Mac.
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Windows 10? Unmountable boot error seems to be very common and pretty much terminal for my current PC. The online answers don't help much if at all.
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The wife upgraded ours, takes longer to start now than a valve television
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Since it came out in July, I've 'upgraded' (upgraded used loosely) to Windows 10 twice, and now decided to stick with 8.1 for now.
I love the Windows 10 layout and features, but I've had the "blue screen of death" too often. Basically, the PC restarts automatically with no warning or prompt.
(http://thewindowsclub.thewindowsclubco.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Blue-Screen-of-Death-Windows-10.png)
It also seems to be slower, I disabled Cortana as I found that it slowed my PC down. But it's still slower than 8.1 for me.
I think that PCs and laptops that already have Windows 10 installed are fine. But there are still many bugs that need fixing for PCs that are upgrading from 7/8/8.1.
I'll try it again closer to the end of the free upgrade time. But for now I found it's not worth the hassle.
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Adam3rovers,
That's how mine started, for some reason it suddenly found faults that weren't there with Windows 7 and then one day last week wouldn't start at all. I'm in a permanent repair loop with no alternatives!
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My XP, on the other hand, is working fine :):):)
ha ha . I know it won't last. I'm going to go over to the dark side when I get a mo. I'm not having that sodding Cortana shit if it was the last software left on the planet.
BobG
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I have been trying to stop the Pop up reminders and have found this "disable" Windows 10 Software
http://blog.ultimateoutsider.com/2015/08/using-gwx-stopper-to-permanently-remove.html
Anyone used it - because it looks really easy when you play the Youtube demo and if I can stop the Pop ups and stick to 8.1 for the next year or so I would be satisfied !
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Unless you're having problems upgrading, sticking with Windows 8 doesn't make sense. Windows 10 is to Windows 8 what Windows 7 is to Vista. There's merit to staying with 7, especially in the business world. But they're highly likely to pull 8's updates early like they've done with Vista, which lost a lot of it's updates even before XP's stopped!
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So if I stick with Win8 it might stop installing a load of bloody updates every time I want to shut my laptop down? Surely that's a blessing!
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For those still struggling with Windblows 10, and the lust for control of Microsoft, this might be useful;
Two Windows 10 tools to block automatic updates - gHacks Tech News (http://www.ghacks.net/2015/12/18/two-windows-10-tools-to-block-automatic-updates/)
As I don't use it mesen, I can't give a recommendation.
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I thought some might be interested in this;
'I urge everyone to fight back' – woman wins $10k from Microsoft over Windows 10 misery • The Register (http://www.theregister.co.uk/2016/06/27/woman_microsoft_windows_10_upgrades/)
What a fiasco eh!
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I'm on windows 7, it says ''Soon you will stop receiving updates as we no longer support windows 7''. I have the windows 10 there ready to upgrade to. I did try it but it said something about my system not being compatible. Mine is a pretty old system so it might be a case of saving the money to get a new one.
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I am getting the Posts now saying the last chance to update for Free will be July 29 - so Do it NOW it says
I am not going to and hope things settle down after that - and though my current PC is really misbehaving, freezing and having to be rebooted I am sure that is not beyond the "wit" of someone to knobble it to encourage the user to switch. We will see
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I'm on windows 7, it says ''Soon you will stop receiving updates as we no longer support windows 7''. I have the windows 10 there ready to upgrade to. I did try it but it said something about my system not being compatible. Mine is a pretty old system so it might be a case of saving the money to get a new one.
Windows 7 will receive security updates until 2020. If your PC is already old and you're likely to replace it (with a Win10 PC) before 2020 then I'd just stick with what you've got. Microsoft aren't pushing out Win7 update notifications as far as I'm aware, so I'd hazard a guess that you've got a bit of software on your PC that won't be compatible with Win7 going forward or you've got a bit of malware/virus which is trying to click-bait you. If it's the former it just means it will stick at the version it's at, which generally isn't a problem for most people. If it's the latter I'd advise downloading Malwarebytes and scan your PC.
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I am getting the Posts now saying the last chance to update for Free will be July 29 - so Do it NOW it says
I am not going to and hope things settle down after that - and though my current PC is really misbehaving, freezing and having to be rebooted I am sure that is not beyond the "wit" of someone to knobble it to encourage the user to switch. We will see
The notifications will stop after that and the annoying bit of software (the little white squares in your task bar) will be removed automatically... maybe. To upgrade after July 29th will be £100.
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If you pc/laptop is newer (from 2013) you should upgrade to windows 10. I use windows 10 since they launched it, july 2015, and I don't have any problems with it, works great at games, doesn't use so many resources from pc like older version of windows.
But if you pc/laptop is older than 2013 you shouldn't upgrade. Even windows 10 doesn't use so many resources, he needs pc/laptops from newer generation.
The good things about upgrading from windows updates is than the license key from windows 10 will remain in your computer motherboard, so if you'll install windows 10 again in future, the license key will be installed automatically.
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Slight tangent...I didn't realise DCS on Copley Road had shut down. So where now is the best place for bits ??
I need a Hard Drive Caddy. I would consider E-Bay but i want to make sure I get the right one, so i'd be taking the hard drive with me to the shop to make sure.
Any suggestions
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I consider myself quite computer savvy but got well and truly conned upgrading to Windows 10.
Don't get me wrong, it has some good points but it's caused me no end of hassle, business-wise, doing things like uninstalling printers, deleting passwords and wiping address books - it even overrides update instructions if it feels like it.
Some apps are absolutely hopeless, the Mail one won't configure and Cortana is just annoying. The system has been launched without thorough testing and is still pretty unstable so my advice would be to leave well alone at present and keep using 7 or 8 as long as Microsoft is still offering support.
NB If you've already installed 10, get hold of the back issues of the magazine Computer Active from when 10 was launched - it's been invaluable in helping a comparative layman like me sort out a lot of what's wrong with the new system.
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Slight tangent...I didn't realise DCS on Copley Road had shut down. So where now is the best place for bits ??
I need a Hard Drive Caddy. I would consider E-Bay but i want to make sure I get the right one, so i'd be taking the hard drive with me to the shop to make sure.
Any suggestions
Crikey I remember using DCS when I lived in Donny back in the day... once went to them and asked if they did business accounts as we had a quarter of a million quid to spend and they refused.
You'd be better using Aria, eBuyer or Scan. Aria and Scan have stores but they're in the Manchester area. I think eBuyer are in Goole but not sure if they have a shop front.
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CCL on the outskirts of Bradford are very good. They have an excellent technical department . Give them a ring telling them what you want and they would post it out that day. Alternatively leave the M62 at the M621 junction and take the Bradford road. They are about three to four miles on at Tong just before you go into Bradford proper.