Windows 10 Free Upgrade ends July 29th

A year ago, back on July 29, 2015, Microsoft announced it was offering a free upgrade for one year to Windows 10 for current users of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1.   Over the past year, if you had one of those operating systems installed on your computer, you probably saw nagging, subtle messages from Microsoft letting you know that your free upgrade was available.

Over the past couple months, you probably saw more “aggressive” messages from Microsoft pop up letting you know about your free upgrade and even suggesting a date when the operating system would be upgraded.  Many of us were annoyed by this, however, there was a good reason that Microsoft did this. …

The free upgrade to Windows 10 expires on July 29, 2016!

Many of us have simply ignored this free upgrade, however, don’t be caught off guard.  The free upgrade is only available for 3 more weeks.  However, Microsoft may see that many people have not upgraded and could extend this free upgrade, but why take a chance?  You have a few options to consider over the next few weeks.

Free upgrade to Windows 10

I have personally upgraded over 15 PCs to Windows 10 and have not found any issues to date.  The upgrade went smoothly, however, be sure to allot yourself a good 15-30 minutes to complete the task, as the update will reboot your computer several times during the update.  Also, be sure to do a backup of your data before you upgrade.

The interface is very slick and performance was very good.  If you are familiar with Windows 7, you will find it easy to adapt.  If you are a Windows 8.1 user, you will find love Windows 10, as many people hated the Windows 8 interface.  You can learn more about the upgrade and the new features on the Microsoft Windows 10 site.

Continue to run Windows 7 and Windows 8.1

You certainly do not have to upgrade to Windows 10.  Many businesses may decide to hold off because certain software applications they are running may have a conflict with Windows 10.  That’s okay.  Support for Windows 7 will not end until January 14, 2020 and support for Windows 8.1 will not end until January 10, 2023.  So many of us may buy a new PC long before support expires.  However, if you have the option to upgrade for free, why not take advantage of it?  On the Microsoft Windows 10 site, you can find out if your hardware and software are compatible before you upgrade.

Upgrade after July 29, 2016

If you decide after the free upgrade offer expires, you will need to pay for the upgrade.  This may cost you over $100 per PC.  However, pricing for the upgrade has not been established yet by Microsoft.  Microsoft really wants all PCs to run Windows 10, so who knows if it will extend the free upgrade offer or provide deeply discounted costs for the upgrade.  However, as mentioned before, if you were planning to upgrade, don’t wait till after the deadline and take a chance that Microsoft will extend the offer.

Summary

Whether to take advantage of the free offer to upgrade to Windows 10 is really a personal choice you have to make for yourself and your business.  My experience in upgrading many personal devices and upgrading PCs at small businesses has been very positive.  Don’t wait to make a decision before it’s too late.