Windows 7 Support

Just like this Decade draws to a close, so to does the support that Microsoft offers for Windows 7. In this short guide, I will explain what this means for you and how you can overcome the end of an era.

What does this mean?
This means that as of January 14th 2020, Microsoft are retiring this Operating System and it will no longer be supporting the product with updates.
Whilst the world won't come to an end if you continue to use Windows 7 after this date. It does put your system and your data at great risk. Any vulnerabilities that occur after the fact won't be patched by Microsoft and can leave your system open to viruses and other...

Do I have to upgrade to Windows 10?
In short, no. There are other alternative Operating Systems available. For example; Ubuntu Linux would be a good alternative for ageing Hardware and wouldn't require you to buy new equipment. Certain Applications and features that exist in Windows 7 aren't compatible within Ubuntu Linux. However, there are similar Applications that will allow the same functionalities, such as; in place of Microsoft's Office package, Linux has the free and open source Libre-Office. This will allow you to transfer all current data across and use it.

For a guide on how to install Ubuntu Linux, click the following link: https://network-wizard.webnode.com/l/how-to-install-ubuntu-linux/

How do I upgrade to Windows 10?
Depending on the age of your system, you may need to buy new Hardware. Any PC or Laptop you buy today will come with Windows 10 installed as standard. When searching for a new system it is recommended that you buy appropriate Hardware for your needs. For example; if you're planning on doing a lot of gaming, you'll need some high end hardware and will have to part with a lot of cash to get it. If you're just going to be using the system for everyday needs, such as word processing and Web Browsing it is recommended you have 8GB of RAM and either an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 for optimal performance running Windows 10.

It is relatively straight forward to update to Windows 10. So long as you have a valid Windows 7 license, you can head over to https://www.microsoft.com/ or alternatively open Google. Once there, search for and download the Windows Media Creation Tool. Once this has downloaded click and run the software you just installed. Select the options to keep all of your current files and data. This will install Windows 10 over your current Windows 7 Operating System, however, it will keep all of your files and data intact.

The installer will run in the background and enable you to keep using your PC until it is ready to reboot and complete the install.
Even though the installer will keep all of your data and files during the install. You should always backup your data before making any significant System changes, failure to do so could result in loss of data in the event of a power cut or other unforeseen circumstances.

Once the install is finished, Windows will ask you a series of questions about data sharing and location settings. On personal preference I always select no to these. Then the system will build your Profile and take you to the Desktop, this can take several minutes.
Now that Windows is installed, you'll need to setup your system the way you want it to be; i.e. Pinning your favourite Applications to the Taskbar so that they are easy to find when you need them.
Ensure to always do regular updates so that your system is always running at optimal performance.

This will be my last blog before Christmas. I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.