I’m happy to announce that since our last sharing of information there have been 2 notable happenings in the computer world.  

1)  Here at HANDS-ON Consultations we celebrated our 17th year as a full-time professional support service supporting Ventura County and beyond!  

2)   Microsoft© has released a new operating system, Windows 10.  

Now while the two might not seem to reach the same level of how they affect our worlds, the first item is definitely a big one for us.  Every year in business is another year of success.  Thanks to all who have made this possible.

So – I guess I should hit on the second happening.  This time around I’m going to provide some brief insight on the question we’re currently be most asked; “Should I upgrade to Windows 10?”

Anyone who’s ever upgraded knows there are always multiple factors so there’s not really a ‘one fits all’ answer.  Firstly you KNOW there will be bugs and other issues requiring fixes from Microsoft.  Most all previously released operating systems have had a ‘second’ release to cover many of these, along with the continuing ‘patches’.  Secondly, you want to be sure your applications are going to work with the new OS.  They do have a ‘check’ for validation that will help.  Mostly older and/or unique applications or devices (printers, etc.) may have issues.  Third will be your learning curve – hard for us to answer that except for those of you we’ve assisted directly so you’ll need to make your own call on that.

My position is, particularly for business systems, wait six months.  Let others go through the pain.  Then when Microsoft addresses the issues from the first release, it should be much smoother sailing.   You can go ahead and ‘reserve’ your free copy and you have until July 29, 2016 to obtain this OS for FREE, even if you don’t yet install.  This is a nice move to go ahead and complete so when you’re ready to take the plunge, you won’t have to buy it – but you will need to actually install it by the above date.  If you’re one of those that likes the ‘latest and greatest’ – go for it.  You can play and be a part of the evolution!

While there are all kinds of information all over, the following link is to a nice, fairly clear page Microsoft has provided.  You can check it out for frequently asked questions – it’s pretty good.

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/Windows-10-faq

I hope this information helps and keep in mind we can assist with identifying and setting up your operations to best fit your specific needs, or assist you with any of your other computer operations.

NOTE:  These are suggestions only so USE AT YOUR OWN RISK.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our offices for professional service/guidance.

Until next time, don’t forget your backups!  For more information, contact Harv Oliver, HANDS-ON Consultations, (805) 524-5278, www.hocsupport.com