In the next few days, Microsoft will launch the much talked about Windows 10 and wants to make sure that users will be ready for it.
Microsoft touts the new OS as the best Windows ever, and others say it is the biggest software upgrade in its history. As the scheduled launch on July 29 draws nearer, the company has been releasing promotional content to gear up for the launch.
Two of the biggest features that are coming with the new OS is its integration with Xbox and support for DirectX 12, which are expected to create a big impact on gaming as the update promises to increase gaming performance by as much as 50 percent.
Microsoft's Major Nelson, otherwise known as Larry Hryb, came up with useful tips to help users prepare for the upgrade to Windows 10. The first thing to do is to answer the question: Is upgrading to Windows 10 right for you?
Microsoft is aware that there are still a number of users who are undecided if they should upgrade or not. Some users may already feel contented with Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 and are thinking about upgrading only as a secondary option.
"After you check out the new features coming with Windows 10, I think you'll change your mind," said Major Nelson. "From Microsoft Edge, an all-new browser; Cortana, your personal digital assistant; and the Xbox app, which brings some of the best features on the Xbox to your PC, Windows 10 is the Windows you know, only better."
For those who are still in the dark, here is a simple guide that users, particularly gamers, can do to help them decide if they're ready to upgrade.
Keep informed.
Microsoft encourages users to check out the new features of Windows 10. While the company proudly claims that Windows 10 is its best OS yet, users should find every piece of information they can and study them. They should be able to find out how they can take advantage of the free upgrade and perhaps point out what benefits they can get from these features.
Check if the system meets the requirements.
There's nothing more annoying than installing something and then finding out later that it's not compatible with the system. Microsoft tells users to assess their system and check if it meets the requirements. Whether the upgrade will be on a PC or tablet, accessing the system requirements should not be a problem. Users can also select "check my PC" through the Get Windows 10 app, which appears somewhere on the right side of the tab bar.
Get to know DirectX 12 and the Xbox experience.
According to Major Nelson, "DirectX 12 will deliver high-end graphics and can improve performance of your games, even on existing hardware." With Windows 10, players can expect to have a better PC gaming experience. Since the upgrade will also feature the new Xbox app, players will have more ways to connect and play.
Some of the exciting features brought by the Xbox app for Windows 10 include compatibility of Xbox Game DVR with the PC, cross-device multiplayer accessibility and Xbox One game streaming to a Windows 10 PC. Users who prefer to use the Xbox controller on their PC should be able to do so once they get hold of the wireless adapter for Xbox 360 controllers which are now available. There's even a wireless adapter for Windows users that is launching in the fall to allow them more freedom and convenience in using the Xbox One wireless controller on various platforms such as Windows 10 PCs, tablets and laptops.
Find more games and apps in Windows Store.
Windows 10 promises to bring a unified shopping experience across devices with the new Windows Store. Users can easily browse and purchase various Microsoft products from the store such as games, apps, movies, music and TV shows.
Upgrade into a full version.
Apart from being a free upgrade, users should also understand that they are getting the full version of Windows 10 as opposed to a mere trial version. This is also true across all devices so long as they are qualified Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 devices. Users are encouraged to take advantage of the free upgrade within one year of the upgrade's availability.
Archive and back up.
Just in case something goes wrong, Microsoft advises users to archive their files and create a back up copy of their system. Either they use an external hard drive or they simply upload their precious files to OneDrive. They can also check Microsoft's support pages to find out more about what they can do to keep their files safe.
Check the compatibility of hardware drivers.
Most hardware manufacturers have already come up with drivers that are Windows 10 ready. When installing a new Windows OS version, users should be able to know if their drivers are compatible to avoid issues such as hardware conflicts and stability.
