Q: I’m considering Windows 8 but don’t know if my current computer is capable of the upgrade. Any quick way to figure out if I need a new computer or not? — Donald
A: Microsoft’s newest operating system is causing quite a bit of commotion (and rightly so), but before you decide to take the plunge, there are a couple of things to ask yourself:
• Am I ready to learn a new set of interface tools?
• Can I do the initial testing on a computer that isn’t mission critical?
In an effort to unify mobile and desktop computing in a single interface, Windows 8 is a bold undertaking by Microsoft that will cause “change anxiety” in users that aren’t open to change.
A lot of detractors are making a big deal out of the “missing” Start button, but the default screen is essentially what you used to see when you clicked on Start in older versions, so it’s not quite as bad as it is being made out to be.
I’ve been using the various preview versions on a desktop computer for a while and recently began using the Surface Tablet and can see where Microsoft is trying to take us all.
If they’re successful, they’ll be hailed as visionaries; if they aren’t, lots of people will be using Windows 7 for a long, long time (Windows XP is over 11 years old and still accounts for over 40 percent of global desktop market share).
Generally speaking, unless you are in the industry (developer, technician, analyst, etc.) or just love the challenge of the unknown, it’s always safest to hold back on migrating so that the tech savvy community can discover all the inevitable quirks.
If you have an extra computer that you don’t rely upon and you like to tinker, then the system requirements are pretty basic:
• Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster with support for PAE, NX, and SSE2 (more info)
• RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) (32-bit) or 2 GB (64-bit)
• Hard disk space: 16 GB (32-bit) or 20 GB (64-bit)
• Graphics card: Microsoft DirectX 9 graphics device with WDDM driver
If you want to do a more in-depth check of your computer and peripherals, make sure you have everything that you care about plugged in and turned on (printers, scanners, etc.) then download and run Microsoft’s Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant: http://goo.gl/LP5Kx
The least problematic way to migrate to Windows 8 is certainly to buy a new computer that comes pre-loaded with the OS, but that’s also the most expensive.
If you want to avoid the pain of re-installing all your programs (if you can even find the disks!), transferring your pictures, documents, music, network settings, printer drivers and everything else that makes your computer YOUR computer, you can perform an “in-place” upgrade.
The only operating system that will allow an in-place upgrade is Windows 7. If you have Windows XP or Vista, the upgrade will install without wiping out all your data, but you will have to reload all your applications (this scenario is generally the most problematic, so consulting a techie or professional that has done it before might be a good idea).
Microsoft has gotten very aggressive with pricing on the upgrade. If you don’t require the disk, you can download the Windows 8 Pro upgrade for $39.95 or buy the boxed version for $69.99 if you do want the installation media.
If you aren’t quite ready to start using Windows 8, but need a new computer, you can buy a Windows 7 system now and qualify for an even cheaper upgrade ($14.99) to Windows 8 later.
Anyone buying a Windows 7 computer between June 2, 2012 and Jan. 31, 2013 can register for the special upgrade offer at: http://goo.gl/AiyUU
Arizona Willie posted at 10:39 am on Thu, Nov 1, 2012.
Windows 8, contrary to the moans from Apple fanbois, is just Windows 7 with a new interface and a new memory manager.
The simple way of looking at Windows 8 is that it has two desktops ( Apple eat your heart out ). One desktop, called Metro or Modern, has live tiles which you soon discover can be quite useful.
The other desktop looks just like Windows 7 except the old Start button is missing.
You can switch between desktops by clicking on a live tile for the Desktop on the Modern desktop or just tap the Windows key on the keyboard, and VOILA! you can switch back and forth as easy as that.< br > < br>
Microsoft is onto something good here. You will be able to work on the same programs using your phone or your tablet or your desktop. If you have ever tried to transfer files between an Ipad or Android table and your desktop, you know what a hassle it can be.
With Windows 8 and a Windows phone and / or tablet or both you can transfer files to and from your desktop / tablet / phone with ease. You only need to learn one operating system.
With the new memory manager you no longer need worry about closing programs. Programs go into a hibernation state when you quit using them and if Windows 8 needs the memory ( doubtful that would happen for most people ) it will unload as needed.
This allows you to keep all the programs you use during the day running in a suspended state and they just pop right open if you call on one.
Almost all programs that work on Windows 7 will work on Windows 8.But not on Windows 8 RT which is for low end tablets and uses only programs written for the Modern desktop, called apps. But you will be able to use the same apps as your Windows phone.
Windows 8 simply does more -- better -- in more ways.
Nothing to be afraid of
[smile][smile]
Bluepoet posted at 1:47 pm on Fri, Nov 2, 2012.
Installed Win8 this week...a few minor tweaks, is all...don't really miss the Start button, much! I didn't know about the memory manager aspect, but I have noticed that the new Explorer 10 loads pages noticeably faster than IE9. It also comes with built-in virus/malware software (new Windows Defender).
If one has Win7, and no touch screen, I think it wouldn't really matter, right now. There's nothing earthshaking about Win8, aside from the touchscreen support, and maybe this memory manager. Either way, installing shouldn't be much of a problem, other than the odd or old apps that may not work. Basically, if it worked on Win7, it should on Win8, too.
For those who are still using WinXP, I have only this:
Dude, get Win7, at least! They will only be supporting your OS, for a little while longer, and Win7 is awesome!
[wink][beam]
Bluepoet posted at 1:49 pm on Fri, Nov 2, 2012.
I should add--do a complete backup, of your computer, before installing. And, update all your drivers! That will take a lot longer to do, than the actual install, but it's a good precaution, nonetheless...
Arizona Willie posted at 3:58 pm on Fri, Nov 2, 2012.
Correct, Blue Poet, < ALWAYS > back up everything before installing a new Operating System.Actually, we should have a backup program set up to make automatic backups at least once a week. I back up every night while watching TV.
I always do a clean install and then have to re-install all my programs.
Takes forever but at least I know I didn't carry over any messed up registry entries or other things that had gone awry over time with Windows 7.
Suelee posted at 4:34 am on Fri, Nov 9, 2012.
Too little, too late. Windows is too late to the mobile and tablet party. Most users are already either locked into the Apple universe or android option. Why would anyone choose a clunky OS with almost NO apps?