Windows 10 Question(s)

[whodoyoulike]

I thought I was reserving my Windows 10 upgrade but I ended up upgrading to it just now. Looked at my data files and noticed duplicate files under Quick Access.

:1: What is this Quick Access section and any harm if I delete the files or should I keep the files under Quick Access?

:2: Where are these files being stored?

:3: How do I find this Cortana AI feature?

:4: Any suggestions to get quickly up to speed using Win10?

Thanks for any info.

[Robert Goren]

Good luck. Windows 10 takes a bit of getting use to and learning where things are. I have had two main issues with it. It does not like to take passwords sometimes. Hooking it up to smart TV via HDMI was hard. I finally did it, but for the life me I don't how. For the most part it is better than 7 or 8 once you figure how to do what you want to do.

[Actor]

For the most part it is better than 7 or 8 once you figure how to do what you want to do.If the automotive industry worked the way the computer industry works (you've heard that one before, right?) they'd change the entire layout of the controls every two years.

Small digression: Back in the 1920s some guy came up with the idea that it would be good to drive your car with body English. So he rigged up a system where the driver wore a harness connected to cables. To turn right the driver leaned right. Turn left, lean left. Speed up, lean forward. Stop, lean back. His system never caught on.

[Augenj]

Microsoft's official "how to" writeup.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-10/getstarted-whatsnew


Here are a few other options to help you along.

Turn off the confusing "Quick View" in File Explorer.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2968272/windows/how-to-disable-windows-10-file-explorers-new-quick-access-view.html

Turn on System Restore in case Microsoft installs a bad update in the future and you need to back it out.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2955023/windows/how-to-turn-on-system-restore-in-windows-10-to-protect-against-bad-updates.html

Review and change Windows 10 Privacy and Security settings.
http://www.wired.com/2015/08/windows-10-security-settings-need-know/

Prevent Microsoft from logging your keystrokes.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2974057/windows/how-to-turn-off-windows-10s-keylogger-yes-it-still-has-one.html

Restrict Microsoft from sharing your upload bandwidth with strangers.
Leave sharing in place but restrict it to - Select "PCs on my local network".
http://www.computerworld.com/article/2955288/microsoft-windows/windows-10-commandeers-users-upload-bandwidth.html?google_editors_picks=true

Increase Virtual Memory from default for better performance unless it's already set proprerly.
http://www.computerworld.com/article/2975134/microsoft-windows/the-first-29-days-of-windows-10.html

Change the Start Menu to suit your preferences. (2 links below)
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2960788/windows/how-to-customize-windows-10s-start-menu.html
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2967201/windows/how-to-customize-the-left-side-of-the-windows-10-start-menu.html

Customize Windows 10 Action Center.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2965932/windows/how-to-customize-what-appears-in-windows-10s-action-center.html

Manage your taskbar.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2960537/windows/3-windows-10-tweaks-to-maximize-your-taskbar.html

Show file name extensions.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/show-hide-file-name-extensions#show-hide-file-name-extensions=windows-7

Selectively sync your files to OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage.
http://www.thewindowsclub.com/onedrive-selective-sync-windows-10

More options that Windows 10 provides including some of the above.
http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/sep/11/windows-10-tips-tricks

[Augenj]

One more thing...

The Windows 10 Edge browser is a work in progress and confusing to most people. If the Edge browser was installed as the default, do the following to change it:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2955484/windows/how-to-change-windows-10s-default-web-browser-to-chrome-firefox-or-opera.html

You'll also need to import your bookmarks from a file that you "may" have created before the Windows 10 upgrade.

[whodoyoulike]

Thanks Augenj for the links I haven't read any of them yet.

But, DANG!

All I wanted to do was reserve a copy then it was being downloaded.

Should I just go out and buy an Apple?

[Flysofree]

One more thing...

The Windows 10 Edge browser is a work in progress and confusing to most people. If the Edge browser was installed as the default, do the following to change it:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2955484/windows/how-to-change-windows-10s-default-web-browser-to-chrome-firefox-or-opera.html

You'll also need to import your bookmarks from a file that you "may" have created before the Windows 10 upgrade.

Once you find where the Windows 10 Edge browser is located, is it simple to download Firefox ?

[Augenj]

Once you find where the Windows 10 Edge browser is located, is it simple to download Firefox ?
I don't have Windows 10 installed yet. All I did was gather up a bunch of links to help me when I finally get around to it. From what I've read, you can start Edge by clicking the E symbol in the tray in the lower right of the screen or from the Start Menu.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2952392/browsers/how-to-use-microsoft-edge-windows-10s-new-browser.html
Then search for "firefox download" in the search box, download it, and make it your default browser. At least that's how I'd do it.

[Augenj]

Thanks Augenj for the links I haven't read any of them yet.

But, DANG!

All I wanted to do was reserve a copy then it was being downloaded.

Should I just go out and buy an Apple?
I don't think so. If you can muddle through this Windows 10 upgrade, you should be set for the future since Microsoft said that Windows 10 will be the last version change (and they always tell the truth) :D

[Hoofless_Wonder]

Thanks for the links, Augenj. Against my better judgement, I've bought components and struggled with a new PC build the last couple of weeks, and Linux support for the Skylake CPUs is lacking. I've gotten one flavor to boot up with plenty of errors, but it's going to be a while before my flavor of choice is usable.

So, I've purchased Windows 10 Pro, and will have a go with it. If nothing else, I'll be curious if the license key will allow me to run it as a virtual machine.

Prevent Microsoft from logging your keystrokes.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2974057/windows/how-to-turn-off-windows-10s-keylogger-yes-it-still-has-one.html

I find this defies reason. The company which has had dogshit security since Day 1 logs your keystrokes? There ought to be a law......

[MJC922]

Thanks for the links, Augenj. Against my better judgement, I've bought components and struggled with a new PC build the last couple of weeks, and Linux support for the Skylake CPUs is lacking. I've gotten one flavor to boot up with plenty of errors, but it's going to be a while before my flavor of choice is usable.

So, I've purchased Windows 10 Pro, and will have a go with it. If nothing else, I'll be curious if the license key will allow me to run it as a virtual machine.



I find this defies reason. The company which has had dogshit security since Day 1 logs your keystrokes? There ought to be a law......

The license key shouldn't care whether its in a VM or not but if it's just one seat on pro then you'll only get one or two activations out of it. I've setup and messed around with 10 a bit at work lately. During the install I typically leave it unplugged from the network initially, it'll then complain and prompt me with the option to create a local account which is what I prefer anyway. Then I go ahead and plug it into network. I also don't choose express setup. Seems a better idea to opt out of all that and instead toggle off all of the tracking and phone home crap it wants to do. I leave the location awareness on but that's about it. The edge browser renders pretty fast but seems a bit rough to me. They're rushing things and figuring they'll push out updates. I'm in no hurry to run this at home, perfectly fine with Win7 on my desktop. Win7 is good on the desktop, Win8 was bad, 8.1 got quite a bit better than 8, and then I suppose 10 is a bit better than 8.1 (start menu-wise) but I'm not impressed with the whole deal.

[Spiderman]

I don't have Windows 10 installed yet. All I did was gather up a bunch of links to help me when I finally get around to it. From what I've read, you can start Edge by clicking the E symbol in the tray in the lower right of the screen or from the Start Menu.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2952392/browsers/how-to-use-microsoft-edge-windows-10s-new-browser.html
Then search for "firefox download" in the search box, download it, and make it your default browser. At least that's how I'd do it.

Would it be same procedure for Google Chrome browser?

[Augenj]

Would it be same procedure for Google Chrome browser?
Yes. Download any browser you want except versions of IE older than IE 11.

[Augenj]

Yes. Download any browser you want except versions of IE older than IE 11.
I should added earlier that you only get the Edge browser default if you choose the Express installation. The Custom installation, or whatever they call it, allows you to select your current browser during installation.

[Augenj]

And to add insult to injury, this just out:

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2993381/windows/windows-10-upgrades-reportedly-appearing-as-mandatory-for-some-users.html

Microsoft is testing the waters with a few users by making the upgrade to Windows 10 MANDATORY. I suspect that if nobody hollers, they'll do that to all of us. ;)

[whodoyoulike]

I think this is what happened to me.

[Hoofless_Wonder]

And to add insult to injury, this just out:

http://www.pcworld.com/article/2993381/windows/windows-10-upgrades-reportedly-appearing-as-mandatory-for-some-users.html

Microsoft is testing the waters with a few users by making the upgrade to Windows 10 MANDATORY. I suspect that if nobody hollers, they'll do that to all of us. ;)

It appears that M$ is assuming you want Windows 10 if you ever indicated so earlier.....

About went blind today when my company mandated updating to Office 2013 from Office 2010 on my worklaptop. No new functionality, screwed up defaults, did not save my earlier settings - and about went blind trying to read the Outlook menus. Had just about figured out where all the Office 2010 buttons were compared to 2007, and now.....ugh.

Also discovered today that a new install of Windows 10 doesn't work on a disk partitioned by Gparted on my new desktop. Nice. M$ doesn't like Linux.

A new install of Suse Linux took about 5 mins. A new install of Windows 10 took about 25 mins on the same hardware. Turned off the options that Express Settings wants, and Windows rebooted, and then ignored my earlier selections. Turned off all the sharing options again, and then it stuck after the next reboot.

Tired of fighting it for now. Will reinstall Linux and see if I can get a dual bootable config tomorrow. Then I'll check out how to turn off more of the Windows snooping things. Then maybe I'll be brave enough to connect it to the internet.

[Augenj]

It appears that M$ is assuming you want Windows 10 if you ever indicated so earlier.....

About went blind today when my company mandated updating to Office 2013 from Office 2010 on my worklaptop. No new functionality, screwed up defaults, did not save my earlier settings - and about went blind trying to read the Outlook menus. Had just about figured out where all the Office 2010 buttons were compared to 2007, and now.....ugh.

Also discovered today that a new install of Windows 10 doesn't work on a disk partitioned by Gparted on my new desktop. Nice. M$ doesn't like Linux.

A new install of Suse Linux took about 5 mins. A new install of Windows 10 took about 25 mins on the same hardware. Turned off the options that Express Settings wants, and Windows rebooted, and then ignored my earlier selections. Turned off all the sharing options again, and then it stuck after the next reboot.

Tired of fighting it for now. Will reinstall Linux and see if I can get a dual bootable config tomorrow. Then I'll check out how to turn off more of the Windows snooping things. Then maybe I'll be brave enough to connect it to the internet.
I read somewhere that Microsoft laid off a large group of testers to save money. Consumers are expected to test Windows from now on to benefit their business customers. Maybe we should get paid? :)

[headhawg]

I read somewhere that Microsoft laid off a large group of testers to save money. Consumers are expected to test Windows from now on to benefit their business customers. Maybe we should get paid? :)You got Windows 10 for "free". Isn't that compensation? :) I commented on how I thought upgrading was a bad idea, but this is why companies make money on shi**y products -- marketing and gullible consumers.

[Hoofless_Wonder]

Yeah, it's always fun to be part of the "beta" test group. I'm seeing the same approach with business applications too - obvious bugs in the early releases of code, code getting pulled after being GA for a few days or hours, etc.

Fought some more last night with the new system. Discovered Windows 10 and Linux now have two different partition types, so if you want a dual bootable system, you'll need at least two drives. Windows saw fit to put the boot partition on a different drive than the one chosen for the install, so I had to disconnect two of the three drives, and reinstall. Rat bastards.

It's amazing how Windows is starting to look like Linux, and Linux is starting to look like the tiles of Windows. Still plenty of bugs in Windows, and with the newer i7 6th generation chip, not all drivers are available, and the system is only semi-stable.

It's mucho fast though....

[MJC922]

Yeah I can see where dual boot would complicate matters with a Win10 install. Typically when working with one hard drive I find the ideal workaround is to always create a partition using diskpart before installing Windows. If you just start with unallocated space instead of a pre-existing partition then you're guaranteed to get the bootable files on a second partition, and this is I believe due to the 'potential' that you might want to use bitlocker someday, which I personally never use. But then again I don't dual boot anything so YMMV. When I've run Linux in the past it was in a VM using VMware player.

[MJC922]

MS stuff definitely is more buggy than ever IMO, and it's all cosmetic crap that's the worst of it, I see no real changes under the hood, it's still Vista. Meh, I suspect where I work the stuff is more buggy than ever too. Everyone has moved to agile dev over the past few years and more frequent staggered releases. I'm not a big fan of achieving good quality assurance when rushing to get a release out the door every four months. What we have is too many companies dependent upon one another to 'release' and you end up getting people at the top driving this with no real understanding of what it takes to turn out quality software.

[senortout]

Honestly now, you do not need two separate hard drives to dual-boot Windows 10 and Linux. I am presently running Windows 10, (in its own PARTITION, of course and using its preferred file system, too) alongside Ubunut 14.04.3 (also in its own PARTITION, and using its preferred file system). There are more than one of these to choose from, stick with the default.

At boot-time, I get a boot menu (grub 2, provided by Ubuntu). It is from there I choose which system to boot up. I allow myself 5 seconds to choose, (this is 10 seconds by default) and either one or the other boots perfectly. A lot of stuff is adjustable.

Its important to get the facts straight, before deciding what is, and what is not possible.









Yeah, it's always fun to be part of the "beta" test group. I'm seeing the same approach with business applications too - obvious bugs in the early releases of code, code getting pulled after being GA for a few days or hours, etc.

Fought some more last night with the new system. Discovered Windows 10 and Linux now have two different partition types, so if you want a dual bootable system, you'll need at least two drives. Windows saw fit to put the boot partition on a different drive than the one chosen for the install, so I had to disconnect two of the three drives, and reinstall. Rat bastards.

It's amazing how Windows is starting to look like Linux, and Linux is starting to look like the tiles of Windows. Still plenty of bugs in Windows, and with the newer i7 6th generation chip, not all drivers are available, and the system is only semi-stable.

It's mucho fast though....

[Hoofless_Wonder]

diskpart or gparted (linux) used to be able to create and manage partitions that could be shared. No more. There's two types and the partitioning code on the Windows 10 DVD and the Linux distros can't handle "the other" type. I've never used bitlocker either, but it sure would be nice if Windows would let you know exactly what it was going to hose up during the install.

And I couldn't agree more that it's still Vista underneath, and that quality software comes at a price. What gets me is how captive these environments are becoming. If I wanted my icons to get huge and look like a tablet, well, I'd buy a tablet. M$ has stacked the Windows 10 o/s so users can shop, get news, and keep in touch with their contacts - via their tools. Like we didn't already know how to do that.... :rolleyes:

[Hoofless_Wonder]

Honestly now, you do not need two separate hard drives to dual-boot Windows 10 and Linux. I am presently running Windows 10, (in its own PARTITION, of course and using its preferred file system, too) alongside Ubunut 14.04.3 (also in its own PARTITION, and using its preferred file system). There are more than one of these to choose from, stick with the default.

At boot-time, I get a boot menu (grub 2, provided by Ubuntu). It is from there I choose which system to boot up. I allow myself 5 seconds to choose, (this is 10 seconds by default) and either one or the other boots perfectly. A lot of stuff is adjustable.

Its important to get the facts straight, before deciding what is, and what is not possible.

Well Senor, the facts are that Windows 10 Pro would not install in the existing partitions I had created with gparted, using OpenSuse, Fedora or Snappy Linux. Windows (apparently) insisted on having its own partition type, which means it had to have its own drive. If you were able to install Linux into a Windows partition, that's just peachy, but I trust gparted more - especially as the OpenSuse version refers to changing it to a "more sane" type when deleting the Windows one.....

[senortout]

Say, I must be confused. Of course, I had Windows 7 when I bought my desktop 3-4 years ago. When I decided to dual-boot, I used a windows program to shrink the partition where Windows 7 was installed to approx. 1/2 of the hard drive. Then I ran the Ubuntu installation from the cd I'd installed the .iso on, and followed the instructions from there. I did have some difficulties along the way, but there it was, two systems operating on the same hard drive, ntfs for Windows 7 and ext3??.... I believe it was for Ubuntu. (Those must be the two disparate file types you indicate cannot share the same hard drive, am I correct in stating that?) When the opportunity came along to take a free upgrade to Windows 10, I did that; again there were rough spots along the way, but now I am running both.


QUOTE=Hoofless_Wonder]Well Senor, the facts are that Windows 10 Pro would not install in the existing partitions I had created with gparted, using OpenSuse, Fedora or Snappy Linux. Windows (apparently) insisted on having its own partition type, which means it had to have its own drive. If you were able to install Linux into a Windows partition, that's just peachy, but I trust gparted more - especially as the OpenSuse version refers to changing it to a "more sane" type when deleting the Windows one.....[/QUOTE]

[senortout]

below, a screen capture taken of gparted app and indicates file types, partition sizes, etc.

[Hoofless_Wonder]

Senor, what you have is typical of many users who want to have Linux available with all the open source tools and software, and have sufficient space on their hard drive for both Windows and Linux. Since you've migrated from W7 to W10 via upgrade, the underlying partitions were not affected, and you apparently have a Windows friendly partition to begin with, so you might be okay for now. When you get a chance, you might want to boot up into Linux, and see if you can access your data on the Windows NTFS partition (C: drive). I found a problem with that tonight, as M$ has locked down the W10 data on my machine, though it might work mounting it up read-only. Previously, I could boot up in Linux and access all data on my system with no issues.

The problem I'm describing doesn't have anything to do with Windows NTFS or Linux ext3 file system types. It has to do with the format and construct of the partitions themselves, which are simply "chunks" of space allocated out for various uses. You can only have one "set" of partitions per hard drive. In your case, you have four partitions, plus the logical extended partition marker, which is fairly typical. You'll also have another section or two for the boot loader, which is grub in your case. In the past, it didn't matter whether the install of Windows, a Windows partitioner, or Gparted or other Linux partitioners were used to create them - they all played together fairly nicely.

Using the Linux tools, I could not manipulate or install anything on the partitions that were created with the W10 DVD install partitioner.I could only delete them, and then redefine a completely raw disk with a "GParted" or Linux partition type. When I booted up the W10 DVD, it could not use any of the GParted partitions for an install, and wanted it deleted and reformated to its liking.

Therefore, at this time, if doing a new install of Windows 10, the partition you need must be Windows approved, and apparently can't be created with the current versions of Gparted. Maybe this will change over time, but I have my suspicions. When initially announcing W10 a couple of years ago, M$ wanted to lock the bootloader for any PC sold via OEMs to only allow one o/s on it. Since I was building my own system, my ASUS motherboard allowed me to toggle off the secure boot. But from what I've seen so far on Windows 10 (all defaults share your data, and assume a M$ centric existence), it won't be long before even having separate drives won't help. You'll need two systems to run each flavor of o/s....

[senortout]

Alright, I like that you are considering the situation, making time for me. I am still trying to imagine your setup in an attempt to find something unique in both our situations! One thing I discovered may or may not interest you, and perhaps other members of the forum....this last post of yours (below) references that you can no longer access Windows files while running Linux...this strikes home with me since I had discovered exactly that on my system. However,I doggedly examined the possible reasons for that occurrence and will try to describe my solution to that situation. Simply stated when you are in Windows, now, with Windows 10 installed (as opposed to Windows 7, which I used before) you are actually leaving it (again, Windows 10) in a "busy" state and can no longer access files from the Linux operating system! As a result, it needs to be tricked into a real shutdown (God help us all). Then to access those Windows files from within Linux the solution is to restart Windows 10, not shut it down, because this will take you to the grub 2 boot menu, where you can start Linux instead; at this point you will once again have access to your Windows 10 file system. Although this may seem strange to you stop to think about it...going into restart clears the stuff microsoft needs to clear to complete many many system updates.so catching microsoft in the middle of a restart cycle is now the only way to make it available to Linux. If you do have a win10-Linux dual boot system lying around give it a whirl. Maybe you even know a way to access Linux system files from within a Windows 10 system, I sure would use that if I had such a thing. Again thanks for taking the time.




Senor, what you have is typical of many users who want to have Linux available with all the open source tools and software, and have sufficient space on their hard drive for both Windows and Linux. Since you've migrated from W7 to W10 via upgrade, the underlying partitions were not affected, and you apparently have a Windows friendly partition to begin with, so you might be okay for now. When you get a chance, you might want to boot up into Linux, and see if you can access your data on the Windows NTFS partition (C: drive). I found a problem with that tonight, as M$ has locked down the W10 data on my machine, though it might work mounting it up read-only. Previously, I could boot up in Linux and access all data on my system with no issues.

The problem I'm describing doesn't have anything to do with Windows NTFS or Linux ext3 file system types. It has to do with the format and construct of the partitions themselves, which are simply "chunks" of space allocated out for various uses. You can only have one "set" of partitions per hard drive. In your case, you have four partitions, plus the logical extended partition marker, which is fairly typical. You'll also have another section or two for the boot loader, which is grub in your case. In the past, it didn't matter whether the install of Windows, a Windows partitioner, or Gparted or other Linux partitioners were used to create them - they all played together fairly nicely.

Using the Linux tools, I could not manipulate or install anything on the partitions that were created with the W10 DVD install partitioner.I could only delete them, and then redefine a completely raw disk with a "GParted" or Linux partition type. When I booted up the W10 DVD, it could not use any of the GParted partitions for an install, and wanted it deleted and reformated to its liking.

Therefore, at this time, if doing a new install of Windows 10, the partition you need must be Windows approved, and apparently can't be created with the current versions of Gparted. Maybe this will change over time, but I have my suspicions. When initially announcing W10 a couple of years ago, M$ wanted to lock the bootloader for any PC sold via OEMs to only allow one o/s on it. Since I was building my own system, my ASUS motherboard allowed me to toggle off the secure boot. But from what I've seen so far on Windows 10 (all defaults share your data, and assume a M$ centric existence), it won't be long before even having separate drives won't help. You'll need two systems to run each flavor of o/s....

[Hoofless_Wonder]

In the past, I've been able to access the C:drive in Windows read/write when booted up in Linux. I've always shut down each o/s and powered back up, and not hibernated or performed a restart. Now, for some reason, a shutdown of Windows 10 leaves that disk in "hibernated" state. Since I spend most of my time in Linux, it's not that big of deal, but sometimes I'll have copies of files I want to move around. You may be right in that Microsoft feels that the partition with the O/S needs to be protected between restarts - perhaps to apply fixes, perhaps just to be yet another thorn in Linux user's sides.

I do not know of any tool that allows access to Linux file systems when booted in Windows.

But I did discover today that I can access a NTFS "drive" that I formatted with Gparted on a 3rd drive in my desktop, so I will continue to have the capability to easily share data between the operating systems. which is nice. If I had more time, I'd also try creating a set of partitions on a drive using the Windows partitioner, and then go back and try to install Linux in one of them. I had some problems with a couple of flavors of Linux trying that, but it also wasn't my main goal - I got burned with the onboard Window's partitioner once when attempting a rescue of XP, and it smoked Linux and a data partition as well.

Anyway, it sounds like the Windows 10 operating system partition is more protected now. Since I'm jumping from Vista to W10 on my desktop, I'm not sure if W7, W8 or W8.1 also behaves this way. But at least with Vista, I could mount up the C: drive with no issues. It also appears that Windows 10 requires a partition that it defines when performing a new install. So this may complicate the setup process for those that thought they could just install it on an open partition on any old drive.

[Track Collector]

Microsoft's official "how to" writeup.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-10/getstarted-whatsnew


Here are a few other options to help you along.

Turn off the confusing "Quick View" in File Explorer.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2968272/windows/how-to-disable-windows-10-file-explorers-new-quick-access-view.html

Turn on System Restore in case Microsoft installs a bad update in the future and you need to back it out.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2955023/windows/how-to-turn-on-system-restore-in-windows-10-to-protect-against-bad-updates.html

Review and change Windows 10 Privacy and Security settings.
http://www.wired.com/2015/08/windows-10-security-settings-need-know/

Prevent Microsoft from logging your keystrokes.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2974057/windows/how-to-turn-off-windows-10s-keylogger-yes-it-still-has-one.html

Restrict Microsoft from sharing your upload bandwidth with strangers.
Leave sharing in place but restrict it to - Select "PCs on my local network".
http://www.computerworld.com/article/2955288/microsoft-windows/windows-10-commandeers-users-upload-bandwidth.html?google_editors_picks=true

Increase Virtual Memory from default for better performance unless it's already set proprerly.
http://www.computerworld.com/article/2975134/microsoft-windows/the-first-29-days-of-windows-10.html

Change the Start Menu to suit your preferences. (2 links below)
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2960788/windows/how-to-customize-windows-10s-start-menu.html
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2967201/windows/how-to-customize-the-left-side-of-the-windows-10-start-menu.html

Customize Windows 10 Action Center.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2965932/windows/how-to-customize-what-appears-in-windows-10s-action-center.html

Manage your taskbar.
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2960537/windows/3-windows-10-tweaks-to-maximize-your-taskbar.html

Show file name extensions.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/show-hide-file-name-extensions#show-hide-file-name-extensions=windows-7

Selectively sync your files to OneDrive, Microsoft's cloud storage.
http://www.thewindowsclub.com/onedrive-selective-sync-windows-10

More options that Windows 10 provides including some of the above.
http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/sep/11/windows-10-tips-tricks

I have a laptop with Windows 7 and will be looking to purchase a new one in the next few days. Instead of making my head spin with Windows 10, I'm going to purchase the "downgrade" rights to have the new laptop come with Windows 7. ;)

[Hoofless_Wonder]

I have a laptop with Windows 7 and will be looking to purchase a new one in the next few days. Instead of making my head spin with Windows 10, I'm going to purchase the "downgrade" rights to have the new laptop come with Windows 7. ;)

TC, I'd recommend you visit one of the local retailers and test drive a bit on a W10 machine. I've found it pretty easy to use compared to Windows 8, which was a total shock to me. I've got Windows 7 on my work laptop and find it's pretty decent, and the transition to Windows 10 has been <surprisingly> easy so far - and the boot up and response time seems pretty snappy. Under the covers, it's not much different than Vista, and the look and feel of the desktop is very tablet like, if you're into that.

If you go with Windows 7, you're trading a short time of a learning curve to stick with the familiar, and for the near term, perhaps more reliable version of o/s. But keep in mind that Windows 10 will get downloaded anyway, and there's no doubt in my mind that Microsoft will turn the screws to sunset all earlier versions of Windows asap. If nothing else, I'm sure integration with newer devices will work smoothly on W10, and maybe not so smoothly on older versions.

Since the cost is the same, or even more for the older version of WinDoze, I don't see the sense in fighting City Hall.

[Augenj]

I have a laptop with Windows 7 and will be looking to purchase a new one in the next few days. Instead of making my head spin with Windows 10, I'm going to purchase the "downgrade" rights to have the new laptop come with Windows 7. ;)
There is a learning curve but it will be the last one according to Microsoft since it's "Windows 10 forever" after this and no Windows 11, etc. Also, Window 7 will become unsupported like Windows XP when Jan 14, 2020 rolls around in a little over 4 years and that will be on your relatively young computer.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/lifecycle

[Clocker]

I have a laptop with Windows 7 and will be looking to purchase a new one in the next few days. Instead of making my head spin with Windows 10, I'm going to purchase the "downgrade" rights to have the new laptop come with Windows 7. ;)

Win 10 is much better for Win 7 fans than Win 8. For example, if you click on the Win 10 icon in the bottom left corner, you get what is essentially a Win 10 Start menu with lots of graphics and options. But if you right click on it, you get a Win 7 style Start menu.

[Red Knave]

...I'm going to purchase the "downgrade" rights to have the new laptop come with Windows 7. ;)
I actually like Win10 and I never thought I would say that.
Some of the setup stuff Augenj points out is just common sense and none of it takes very long. I think staying with Win7 is a mistake.

[Robert Goren]

There is certainly a learning curve with windows 10. But you might as well get started on it because they are not going back to XP. Unless you are planning on dying in the next six months, the sooner, the better.

[forced89]

There is certainly a learning curve with windows 10. But you might as well get started on it because they are not going back to XP. Unless you are planning on dying in the next six months, the sooner, the better.

Six months is not the right window. I'm 81 and plan to ride Windows7 until either it or I expire. Actually my hope is that Windows7 goes first!!

[JimG]

The one thing missing in Windows 10 that keeps me from upgrading from my Windows 7 Pro is WinXP Mode. I still use XP mode for some old software.

[Augenj]

The one thing missing in Windows 10 that keeps me from upgrading from my Windows 7 Pro is WinXP Mode. I still use XP mode for some old software.
You might want to check this link out and scroll down to Compatibility Modes. The image shows "Windows XP (Service Pack 2). That's still no guarantee that your old programs will work though.
http://www.howtogeek.com/219782/is-windows-10-backwards-compatible-with-your-existing-software/

[JimG]

You might want to check this link out and scroll down to Compatibility Modes. The image shows "Windows XP (Service Pack 2). That's still no guarantee that your old programs will work though.
http://www.howtogeek.com/219782/is-windows-10-backwards-compatible-with-your-existing-software/

I appreciate the thought, but I am referring to 16 bit programs that need a true xp Mode to run. It is a shame that Microsoft does not offer the XP mode for windows 10. But dinosaurs like me are not their target audience. To be honest, I was fine with WinXP and did not want to upgrade to Win7 but I wanted a computer that could easily handle streaming horse racing video from my computer to the big screen tv. the computer came with Win7 and fortunately I could upgrade to Win7 Pro with XP Mode. Best of both worlds.

Jim

[Red Knave]

The one thing missing in Windows 10 that keeps me from upgrading from my Windows 7 Pro is WinXP Mode. I still use XP mode for some old software.You can still run XP in a Virtual Machine. See here for 1 set of instructions --> http://www.download3k.com/articles/How-to-add-an-XP-Mode-Virtual-Machine-to-Windows-10-or-8-using-Hyper-V-00770

[upthecreek]

Anybody upgraded from w7 32 bit os to W10 32 bit?

[Flysofree]

I have not done it, but know 4 people that did the free upgrade. 3 of them went back to W 7. One liked W 10 and stayed with it. I think from my limited reading and knowledge, the success of the download "may" depend on how old your computer is. The newer the better.

[Red Knave]

Anybody upgraded from w7 32 bit os to W10 32 bit?I upgraded from Win7 32 bit to Win10 64 bit with no issues.

[Flysofree]

I upgraded from Win7 32 bit to Win10 64 bit with no issues.

Is it possible that some Win 7 computers have both 32 bit and 64 bit? I'm showing my ignorance here. Is there some question asked during the free download to Win 10 as to which bit number you are upgrading from?

[upthecreek]

http://www.howtogeek.com/228042/how-to-switch-from-32-bit-windows-10-to-64-bit-windows-10/

[Flysofree]

http://www.howtogeek.com/228042/how-to-switch-from-32-bit-windows-10-to-64-bit-windows-10/

Ok, I found that I have a 64 bit operating system on this Win 7 computer. Does that affect the upgrade process to Windows 10?

[Red Knave]

Ok, I found that I have a 64 bit operating system on this Win 7 computer. Does that affect the upgrade process to Windows 10?No. If you are running 64 bit now you should be fine.

[Flysofree]

That's good to know in case I decide to do the free upgrade on this computer before July 31st.
Beside having "drivers up to date", what else can one do to feel the chance of failure is low? I've read everything from people loosing speaker sound to loosing one's router connection for a 2nd computer. It's scary.

[Red Knave]

There is a way to check the compatibility of your PC. Right click on the 'Get Windows 10' icon and click 'Check Upgrade Status' (not exactly intuitive). If you need something you will find out then.

[upthecreek]

I'm going to be upgrading to W10 soon I have an administrative acct and a local user acct My question is will I lose everything in the local acct I assume I'll have to set it up from scratch after the update I read where the admistrative acct follows you

[Flysofree]

No. If you are running 64 bit now you should be fine.

I'm really confused on System Information it says:

"System Type x 64 based PC"

Then under that it reads:

"System Directory: C\Windows\system 32"

I don't know what this means.

[Red Knave]

"System Type x 64 based PC"

In front of this it should say whether it is the 64 bit operating system or 32 bit.
This is Win 10

[Tom]

MS has now announced that W10 will stop being free on July 29th.
More and more reports are coming in that people are waking up to find W10 installed without them agreeing to allow it.

MS has also sent out at least one update that has purposely has negatively affect many users with the only recourse for them being upgrade to W10.
I had a link but screwed it up. I'll to find it again.

[forced89]

I think I have thwarted all of Microsoft's efforts to trick me into upgrading to Windows10 with the following actions:

# Downloaded GWX Control Panel
# I no longer allow Microsoft to automatically download updates
# I carefully check all recommended and optional Microsoft updates before
downloading them. In truth I end up "Hiding" about 80% of them.

[Longshot]

MS has now announced that W10 will stop being free on July 29th.
More and more reports are coming in that people are waking up to find W10 installed without them agreeing to allow it.

MS has also sent out at least one update that has purposely has negatively affect many users with the only recourse for them being upgrade to W10.
I had a link but screwed it up. I'll to find it again.


I got up this morning and Microsoft had downloaded Windows 10 to my computer last night without me asking for it. It did give me the option to restore Windows 7 but it took about 15 minutes to get everything back like it was before.

[Tom]

Resistance is futile.
You will be assimilated.
You must support the collective.

[Longshot]

Resistance is futile.
You will be assimilated.
You must support the collective.

Your are right Tom.

BIG BROTHER is watching.

[no breathalyzer]

MS has now announced that W10 will stop being free on July 29th.
More and more reports are coming in that people are waking up to find W10 installed without them agreeing to allow it.

MS has also sent out at least one update that has purposely has negatively affect many users with the only recourse for them being upgrade to W10.
I had a link but screwed it up. I'll to find it again.

They tried to do it to me today.. i think its BS..

[whodoyoulike]

I got up this morning and Microsoft had downloaded Windows 10 to my computer last night without me asking for it. It did give me the option to restore Windows 7 but it took about 15 minutes to get everything back like it was before.

You should have tried it out since you had some time to switch back. Now, if you decide to upgrade I think it will cost you $100. I was only using Win8.1 for a short time and Win10 appears the same or much better with no problems so far.

[rosenowsr]

Win 10 automatically upgraded my machine this morning also. I just turned on machine and bang, it started installing.

I don't know if people realize that when you bought win XP or win 7 or win whatever, you didn't by the software- you only bought the right to use it.

No problems so far, fingers crossed.

[Grits]

Today, my laptop updated to W10, without my choice. I had company, and before I knew it, all was done 90 minutes later! When I turned things back on, it took a few minutes. I turned off all the "microsoft will send info", app crap junk. All bookmarks are in place, all photos are in place, all documents are in place.

But, gentlemen, tell me something if either of you can.

My question. .... Is this just my laptop or is it W10? HOW IN THE HELL do I get rid of this horrible black background with the blue, purple, white print, etc. It is totally awful!!! And unseeable!

I just know one of you tech gurus have a simple answer for this.

Too, I no longer see my Microsoft Essentials protection for scanning viruses, etc. Anything I should know, as to what replaced it? It worked perfectly. :faint:

HELP! PLEASE! This screen deal is tough on the eyes. :confused:

[Longshot6977]

HOW IN THE HELL do I get rid of this horrible black background with the blue, purple, white print, etc. It is totally awful!!! And unseeable!


http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/windows-10-how-change-background-colours-customise-start-menu-1513135

[Sinner369]

I being using Windows 10 since last year when I updated last fall. So far, I have not encountered any problems using all of my old programs under W8.1.

The only change I made under W10 was updating "Windows Updates" automatically......otherwise no problems.

[Grits]

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/windows-10-how-change-background-colours-customise-start-menu-1513135

Thank you. I was hoping for PA to appear in its usual colors, though, with the change everything appears all white. Oh well.... better than black with purple and blue print, maybe at some point I'll figure it all out.

Thank you.

[Clocker]

Thank you. I was hoping for PA to appear in its usual colors, though, with the change everything appears all white. Oh well.... better than black with purple and blue print, maybe at some point I'll figure it all out.

Thank you.

Also, at the very bottom left corner of the screen is the Windows 10 icon. If you left click on that, you will get the Windows 10 basic menu. If you right click on that, you will get a Windows 7 style start menu.

[Tom]

I would not use any MS protections programs.
They are woefully lax in updating and you could get into trouble while they dawdle.

Professional protection software is updated much more frequently.
Of course, once my Chrome Book arrives, I will not have to worry about that crap.;)

[Grits]

That's good to know in case I decide to do the free upgrade on this computer before July 31st.
Beside having "drivers up to date", what else can one do to feel the chance of failure is low? I've read everything from people loosing speaker sound to loosing one's router connection for a 2nd computer. It's scary.

Five minutes before the Preakness went off, my connection was lost on my laptop. "Server Not Found". I rebooted. Its not my router as both my desktop and my IPad are working fine.

Windows 10 is already getting on my nerves. :rolleyes:

EDIT: Rebooted once more. Now, fine. Thank goodness.

[senortout]

Grits, seems they made some changes with Windows 10. You mentioned Microsoft Essentials, the virus-checking software used in Windows 7. That, basically is still here in Windows 10, under the (older) name Windows Defender. I assure you, this is a change in name alone, and will continue to perform as before! all the best......




Thank you. I was hoping for PA to appear in its usual colors, though, with the change everything appears all white. Oh well.... better than black with purple and blue print, maybe at some point I'll figure it all out.

Thank you.

[senortout]

Grits, that (server not found) has happened to me several times lately, on busy days. As I am using mostly Linux now, it is not to be blamed on your new Windows 10 installation. Incidentally, next time it happens, just 'refesh' the web page...if you have not tried that, please do so before going through all the hassles of rebooting. You may find it unnecessary. It may well be a hiccup on an overloaded server at THEIR END, not your own.







Five minutes before the Preakness went off, my connection was lost on my laptop. "Server Not Found". I rebooted. Its not my router as both my desktop and my IPad are working fine.

Windows 10 is already getting on my nerves. :rolleyes:

EDIT: Rebooted once more. Now, fine. Thank goodness.

[PaceAdvantage]

Grits, seems they made some changes with Windows 10. You mentioned Microsoft Essentials, the virus-checking software used in Windows 7. That, basically is still here in Windows 10, under the (older) name Windows Defender. I assure you, this is a change in name alone, and will continue to perform as before! all the best......Not exactly. Whereas before I could turn off real time monitoring, under Windows 10 and Defender, I can only turn it off for a brief spell. It will automatically turn real-time monitoring back on after a while.

I'm sure there is a way to defeat this, perhaps a registry edit (or just kill Defender altogether).

This is not your father's MSE. And in fact, Defender gets higher marks in virus detection than MSE did, even though on the surface, they appear to be very similar or almost identical.

I think it does a better job because it seems to update its virus definitions every 5 seconds... :lol:

[Grits]

Grits, seems they made some changes with Windows 10. You mentioned Microsoft Essentials, the virus-checking software used in Windows 7. That, basically is still here in Windows 10, under the (older) name Windows Defender. I assure you, this is a change in name alone, and will continue to perform as before! all the best......

Thanks Senor, after typing these posts I noted the Windows Defender.... Glad it's there.

Take good care. :)

[whodoyoulike]

Thanks Senor, after typing these posts I noted the Windows Defender.... Glad it's there.

Take good care. :)

Don't become frustrated by the unplanned upgrade rather explore the new features esp. Cortana etc. I really like it and read that MS has some plans for improving it starting this summer.

[Longshot]

The really bad part of Miscrosoft upgrading my system to Windows 10 without me asking for it is that it took up between 6 and 7G's of my monthly 15G
I have on my Wild Blue plan and I still have 20 days before it rolls over. I'll
have to spend $50 or more to purchase more G's before it rolls over.

Do you think if I ask real nice Microsoft will reimburse me.
I won't hold my breath while I wait.

[forced89]

The really bad part of Miscrosoft upgrading my system to Windows 10 without me asking for it is that it took up between 6 and 7G's of my monthly 15G.......I have on my Wild Blue plan and I still have 20 days before it rolls over. I'll
have to spend $50 or more to purchase more G's before it rolls over.


Microsoft is so damn arrogant. They just do whatever they want.

[PaceAdvantage]

Well, it is their operating system and we're using it under their terms.

For the record, my desktop has Windows 7, and it hasn't been upgraded to 10, and won't be (unless I want to). And I keep getting those annoying pop ups telling me I should and no, I have never used a third party utility to block MS from upgrading me to 10 or from telling me I should.

People need to learn how to handle their hardware... :lol:

You can accomplish pretty much whatever you'd like as long as you take the time to learn.

[whodoyoulike]

The really bad part of Miscrosoft upgrading my system to Windows 10 without me asking for it is that it took up between 6 and 7G's of my monthly 15G
I have on my Wild Blue plan and I still have 20 days before it rolls over. I'll
have to spend $50 or more to purchase more G's before it rolls over.

Do you think if I ask real nice Microsoft will reimburse me.
I won't hold my breath while I wait.

I can see why you're upset but, I don't have that concern. I've had MS products for so long but their business practice is changing my mind on my next pc purchase.

[Tom]

MS is moving quickly from the software business to the "protection business."

[whodoyoulike]

I've mentioned that my upgrade to Win10 just started unintentionally. This may have been the reason. Be careful what you click on, I just wasn't paying close enough attention.

... Here's the tricky part, though: As Microsoft itself acknowledges on its support page, clicking on that red X in the upper-right-hand corner doesn't cancel the upgrade; it lets it proceed as planned. ...

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/one-wrong-click-could-windows-183438395.html

[Charlie]

For quite sometime, I have been continually getting the pop up window asking me to upgrade from my W8 to W10. I have continually refused to do this, because my W8 has been just fine. Then it happened, I was working on my computer and all of a sudden, I received a message that my computer is upgrading to W10 and do not shut off my computer. Not wanted the upgrade, I turned off my computer and waited a 1/2 an hour before putting it back on. It was still upgrading to W1O. It's been a few days and so far, all is fine, but really the upgrade was done without a request from me. I was perplexed at this and still am. I was very happy with W8. It should have been my choice.

[johnhannibalsmith]

Next desktop i buy/build I make the plunge to Linux. I've managed to hang on to Windows 7 but this company's insistence that a god damned operating system should dictate things to me has chafed my ass raw finally. I'm sure it'll be inconvenient and aggravating to a point for a while, but I can't in good conscience put up with an operating system that considers me as a customer the same way that a rogue malware company does.

[whodoyoulike]

Well, they (M$) are just looking out for their customers in this instance but, thinking about this a little more that may just be B.S. in this case.

[Tom]

M$ looking out for their customers? :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[sammy the sage]

So W10 auto installed on it's....was p.o.'d....BBBuuuuutttttt....1st thing up...do you accept terms and conditions...I declined...

it re-installed w7 w/all things back perfectly...haven't been hassled since...interesting to say the least.... :jump:

[JimG]

My wife's desktop had win 7 on it but the hard drive died when microsoft tried to update it to win 10. Ended up buying her a chromebook, which she loves. Did not have original win 7 disks for the desktop, so I took an old hard drive I had laying around, and burned an image of ubuntu 14 to it.

Been playing with it for a week, and there is a learning curve but I am somewhat computer literate and have enjoyed the challenge. Bottom line, I like Linux. Added Wine to it so I have some of my old horse racing and sports gaming programs working.

Very pleased so far with linux. Also have my windows laptop handy when I have to use it and I am using it less and less. The desktop is snappy and so far so good. I hate Microsoft with a passion and am weaning myself away from them.

Jim

[headhawg]

I think that anyone who has enough knowledge will start doing what you did Jim. This ridiculous forced update to Win 10 thing is just silly and stupid. But the average user doesn't know about how to handle that stuff so M$ gets away with it. I hope that everyone switches to Linux or Apple, and M$ can figure out what to do when the bottom starts falling out. And if we can people to quit buying Office too....

[Native Texan III]

Article explains the Microsoft scam update and how to use GWX Control Panel to stop W10 upgrades from nagging or ever running

http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/how-to/windows/how-stay-on-windows-7-8-forever-stop-upgrade-notifications-3614204/

Microsoft has another scam in delaying W7 updates downloads for hours when you try to install them.

I am very happy with W7 and W8.1 so do not see the point of risking an update I do not want nor need.

[forced89]

Microsoft has another scam in delaying W7 updates downloads for hours when you try to install them.

I research every "Recommended" Update before I install any of them. My guess is that I "Hide" 9 out of 10. They are relentless in trying to con me into installing the infamous KB3035583!

[upthecreek]

It took me 3 hrs to upgrade this am Now I have an issue with Defender conflicting with my Norton Antivirus The "turn it off" option only puts it into sleep mode, turns back on after 15 mins I need to turn it off permanently The answer I get from Google I don't quite understand Any help appreciated

[forced89]

Why not just delete Norton. I'm no fan of Microsoft or Windows10 but you just got in bed with them so why not just go whole hog and simplify your life?

[PaceAdvantage]

You can permanently disable Defender in Windows 10...all it takes is google.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=how+to+permanently+turn+off+defender+in+windows +10

[upthecreek]

You can permanently disable Defender in Windows 10...all it takes is google.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=how+to+permanently+turn+off+defender+in+windows +10
Like I said in my post,I didn't understand the Google answer Excuse me for asking

[upthecreek]

Why not just delete Norton. I'm no fan of Microsoft or Windows10 but you just got in bed with them so why not just go whole hog and simplify your life?
I get Norton from my ISP(Comcast) , along with their Malware protection If had it 8 years with no issues and I like/comfortable using it And besides I think in this or another thread,even MS recommended not using their antivirus protection.

[PaceAdvantage]

Like I said in my post,I didn't understand the Google answer Excuse me for askingThere's more than one link...I was hoping one of them would have helped you.

Sorry.

[upthecreek]

There's more than one link...I was hoping one of them would have helped you.

Sorry.
Thnx I've since found out that MS in its security center doesn't always recognize 3rd party antivirus. Norton assures me I have full protection and under firewall status in system security it says its being monitored by vendor Norton 360,so I'm confident I'm protected

[PaceAdvantage]

My concern would be conflicts between the two and perhaps the slowing down of your system because you're running two real-time monitoring programs.

[upthecreek]

My concern would be conflicts between the two and perhaps the slowing down of your system because you're running two real-time monitoring programs.

Forgot to mention that if I open up Windows Defender it now tells me it permanently disabled Apparently after you install 3rd party antivirus and make sure you have the latest updates so its compatible with W10, it automatically turns off

[_______]

I was told by someone fairly savvy that even though I don't want the W10 update, I should install it and then roll it back to W7.

He stated that Microsoft will consider my machine part of the installed base prior to the 7/29 cutoff and allow the free upgrade afterwards if I change my mind.

I have googled around for confirmation but haven't found a definitive answer. Putting this out for others like myself who have made a definitive decision to not update.

[whodoyoulike]

I was told by someone fairly savvy that even though I don't want the W10 update, I should install it and then roll it back to W7.

He stated that Microsoft will consider my machine part of the installed base prior to the 7/29 cutoff and allow the free upgrade afterwards if I change my mind.

I have googled around for confirmation but haven't found a definitive answer. Putting this out for others like myself who have made a definitive decision to not update.

You need to verify this because I've read in a couple articles that if you install then roll back (I think you have 30 days to decide to roll back) to upgrade subsequent will cost you $100 + for the home edition vs. free.

[Jeff P]

Customer wins $10k judgement from Microsoft over unauthorized Windows 10 upgrade:
http://www.computerworld.com/article/3089071/microsoft-windows/customer-wins-10k-judgement-from-microsoft-over-unauthorized-windows-10-upgrade.html

Microsoft last month paid a California travel agent $10,000 after she won a judgment in small claims court by successfully arguing that an unauthorized upgrade to Windows 10 crippled her work PC.



-jp

.

[Longshot6977]

Customer wins $10k judgement from Microsoft over unauthorized Windows 10 upgrade:
http://www.computerworld.com/article/3089071/microsoft-windows/customer-wins-10k-judgement-from-microsoft-over-unauthorized-windows-10-upgrade.html.

I stand up and applaud this woman! :ThmbUp: :ThmbUp:

Hopefully, a long line forms behind her against M$.

[whodoyoulike]

I think my home pc has also been crippled. Thanks for the info didn't know small claims settlements can now be that high.

[Dave Schwartz]

Personally, I think that the time is near for upgrading providing you have very new hardware.

I just cannot imagine installing Win10 on:

* XP-era machines (i.e.3GB max on the motherboard)
* machines with older peripherals that will possibly not have W10 drivers.


Just my opinion.

I currently have 1 machine that is satisfies both these requirements and about 15 that don't.


Dave

[JimG]

When a forced upgrade messed up my hard drive on an otherwise nice older computer, I blew a gasket. Then I dropped another hard drive into my computer, and installed Linux. I love it. Have most windows software I used working under wine, and do not ever plan to return to Windows. Screw them.

Jim

[Tom]

I have a W7 refurbed machine, never opened the box.
I think I will fire it up, get W10 before I put anything on it, then use it only for web access and file storage. After 7/29, W10 is no longer free. I suspect the yearly rental fee will follow very quickly. Then, Nevermore software will turn the danged thing into a Chrome Book.

Everything I need or want is working fine on my 4 XP machines. there is nothing at all out there I need or want that wasn't around 10 years ago.
Linex is a good alternative.

I am going to download Mint and try it from a thumb drive boot.
Jim, can you run Open Office? All really need to be sure is I can have a database and spreadsheet program that works.

MS is not worth the bother. When they went as far a s make the X button mean accept, realized they have zero credibility and even loess honor. I certainly hope this W10 thing costs them billions. Some people deserve bad tings to happen to them. MS is one of them.

[dlgreg]

When a forced upgrade messed up my hard drive on an otherwise nice older computer, I blew a gasket. Then I dropped another hard drive into my computer, and installed Linux. I love it. Have most windows software I used working under wine, and do not ever plan to return to Windows. Screw them.

Jim
Jim
Which version of Linux did you install?
Did you have to install Wine on your Linux version?
dlgreg

[JimG]

Jim
Which version of Linux did you install?
Did you have to install Wine on your Linux version?
dlgreg

Ubuntu and I did install Wine to run within Ubuntu to run my windows programs.

Jim

[JimG]

I am going to download Mint and try it from a thumb drive boot.
Jim, can you run Open Office? All really need to be sure is I can have a database and spreadsheet program that works.



I have heard that it does but do not know that for a fact. Ubuntu actually came with a spreadsheet and word program installed. Have not used it yet though.

Jim

[tupper]

There are various versions of Mint and Ubuntu that differ primarily depending on the default desktop. I would guess that the stock versions of both distros come with Libre Office installed, but if they don't, it is a simple matter of going into the package manager and checking the box in front of the Libre Office package and clicking "Apply," and Libre Office will install over your Internet connection. You might have to click "Update" first to refresh your packages list.

By the way, Mint is forked from Ubuntu (which is forked from Debian).

[Jeff P]

Microsoft backs off click-the-X trick in Windows 10 upgrade pitch:
http://www.computerworld.com/article/3089438/microsoft-windows/microsoft-backs-off-click-the-x-trick-in-windows-10-upgrade-pitch.html

Microsoft today said it will revamp the notification of a pending Windows 10 upgrade so that clicking the red "X" -- an action that for decades has been used to dismiss or ignore a dialog box -- will no longer be interpreted as authorizing the process.

They must have taken some heat before deciding to reverse course. I'm really glad that they caved because doing that with the red 'x' sets a really bad precedent.



-jp

.

[whodoyoulike]

Microsoft backs off click-the-X trick in Windows 10 upgrade pitch:
http://www.computerworld.com/article/3089438/microsoft-windows/microsoft-backs-off-click-the-x-trick-in-windows-10-upgrade-pitch.html



They must have taken some heat before deciding to reverse course. I'm really glad that they caved because doing that with the red 'x' sets a really bad precedent.



-jp

.

I don't think it was just coincidence that ....

... It was likely a coincidence that Myerson touted the change just a day after news broke that a California woman had won a $10,000 judgment in small claims court against Microsoft for upgrading her PC last year without her approval. That case was decided in March, and the company dropped its appeal and paid Teri Goldstein $10,000 more than a month ago. ...

[whodoyoulike]

You can't really make this up!!


... Last week, Forbes contributor Gordon Kelly published an article pointing out that a monthly subscription cost will be added for Windows 10 usage — which supports the notion that Windows is moving towards more of a subscription model. The cost of Windows 10 will be $7 per user per month ($84 per year) for enterprise versions. This pricing tier is known as “Windows 10 Enterprise E3,” meaning Windows has joined Office 365 and Azure as a subscription service. Windows 10 Enterprise E5 will be the version of Windows 10 Enterprise that includes Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection.

“This new subscription model is not associated with our current upgrade offering or applicable to the Windows 10 consumer edition,” said Microsoft in a statement to PCWorld. This may be a big relief for consumers, but there is a possibility that Microsoft could charge for premium features in the future. ...


http://www.forbes.com/sites/amitchowdhry/2016/07/18/microsoft-monday-windows-10-monthly-charge-xbox-one-s-release-date-billion-users-may-be-delayed/#59cff5531bb5

[098poi]

I'm thinking of doing it this weekend.

I have a second internal drive for storage, should I disconnect that before the upgrade?

I remember someone saying to do custom install, go through all the privacy things etc. and then disconnect my network cable. Once it downloads does it need to be connected to the web to install?



Thanks

[Red Knave]

Once it downloads does it need to be connected to the web to install?
I'm pretty sure it does but I have never upgraded an o/s without being online.
Typically there will be o/s updates, drivers, machine specific stuff and the like that need to be installed/updated/reinstalled.

[098poi]

I'm pretty sure it does but I have never upgraded an o/s without being online.
Typically there will be o/s updates, drivers, machine specific stuff and the like that need to be installed/updated/reinstalled.

You're probably right. I think I will disconnect my second drive and when I do the install have it use a local account and not create a Microsoft one. I don't need to access my stuff from a Windows phone (which I don't have) or any other computer. Some sites on line said for a single home user this should be ok. I don't care about the Microsoft store. If I need in the future I can create an account.

[davew]

Win 10 automatically upgraded my machine this morning also. I just turned on machine and bang, it started installing.

I don't know if people realize that when you bought win XP or win 7 or win whatever, you didn't by the software- you only bought the right to use it.

No problems so far, fingers crossed.


Does that mean they will send you a refund since you no longer can use XP or win 7?

I am pretty sure I interrupted a unrequested upload of Win10, and now the laptop is unusable with no operating system.

I have heard this Win10 is going to become a subscription program like office 365, where you pay for a year useage....

[JustRalph]

I got so pissed at this Windows 10 crap I hit the recovery on my Lenovo laptop this morning.

:bang: :bang:

[ebcorde]

I installed over Windows 7 on an old box, and I recently purchased a box with Windows 10.

My old box now runs Linux. I was too disgusted. It would create new profiles all the time.

My new box , the internet connection drops out on me a lot, I have to reconnect. Never had a box do this before. There are other anomalies.

[whodoyoulike]

I'm thinking of doing it this weekend.

I have a second internal drive for storage, should I disconnect that before the upgrade?

I remember someone saying to do custom install, go through all the privacy things etc. and then disconnect my network cable. Once it downloads does it need to be connected to the web to install?



Thanks

I'm pretty sure you have to be connected. My upgrade from Win8.1 to Win10 took almost an hour. I think it checks what you have and carries it over to the new o/s and probably a bunch of other things for compatibility.

[whodoyoulike]

... I have heard this Win10 is going to become a subscription program like office 365, where you pay for a year useage....

As of now, there won't be a subscription for home use but read the article link in post #112.

M$'s business practices needs to be reviewed internally by someone who can see the long term instead of short term impact. Unless they don't think they are going be around long term.

[098poi]

I just finished. A pain in the ass but I did it. I kept getting a C1420127 error and it would stop during preparing installation. i Googled and tried a bunch of stuff but I probably had 5 or 6 attempts and each time it starts from the beginning again. When it did finally install on the first reboot the screen went black and the machine was on and it just stayed like that rebooting a few times. I Googled on my phone and others had that issue. I was afraid to force power off and then a screen appeared and it welcomed me to W10. I did custom install and turned off just about everything. So far it looks very familiar so I am pleased. I thought it would be a completely different look. WHEW!!!!!!!!!!!

[098poi]

My Hoyle casino games doesn't work, it wants product key which I have but it says it's wrong. Google says they are aware of this and maybe I can get DVD to install. :rolleyes:

[forced89]

I am saved this misery by GWX Control Panel. I will bite the bullet with Windows 10 only when my laptop shoots craps and I have to buy a new one. Thus I won't have to go through the update process and hopefully Windows 10 will be almost 100% debugged by then.

[Longshot6977]

.... and hopefully Windows 10 will be almost 100% debugged by then.

LOL, yeah, right. Very funny. :lol:

[whodoyoulike]

Only a few more days until July 29 and deciding whether to upgrade or not. Came across this good preview article on what to expect in the next update expected August 2 and you may want to save for reference. I have high hopes for Cortana.


... If you believe that Microsoft is the devil in Redmond, gobbling up your data to pass along to advertisers (or worse), nothing about Cortana’s latest features will change that. (But you’ll be happy to know that the French government agrees with you.) That said, the Cortana digital assistant has steadily improved since the initial release of Windows 10. The Anniversary Update presents a Cortana that’s more aware of you than ever, assuming you allow her access to your life (here’s how to turn her off if you don’t).

Cortana can now speak several languages, sniff your email for flight times and other pertinent data, and more. Two key additions make Cortana especially useful, however: Her hangout on your lock screen, and her ability to remind you of basically anything. ...

http://www.pcworld.com/article/3099199/windows/windows-10-anniversary-update-review-cortana-edge-overshadow-windows-ink.html

[Parkview_Pirate]

You'll no longer be able to toggle off Cortana with the next upgrade.

http://www.pcworld.com/article/3100358/windows/you-cant-turn-off-cortana-in-the-windows-10-anniversary-update.html

Total spyware app, IMHO. I have W10 running as a virtual machine on my Linux desktop, and it went into a LONG running three part upgrade last night when I fired up the VM. When I was able to log in, Cortana had magically reappeared and is extremely annoying to turn off. If the same upgrade appears on my in-host version of Windows 10, I'll be ripping it out.

BTW - for those who have suffered an upgrade to Windows 10 from 7 or 8 - the default memory setting is not calculated very well. I found this out when trying to help my uncle get his laptop running with better performance. His laptop only had 2 GB of RAM, and so a larger pagefile was getting defined and being used - slowing everything down. Here's a link on how to adjust/fix a slow running W10 machine after an upgrade. It may help, as my uncle's laptop is running faster now.

http://www.rbrussell.com/2015/02/25/possible-fix-windows-10-running-very-slow/

I'm not sure when his laptop was upgraded, and perhaps more recent upgrades to Windows 10 made the pagefile size more efficient, but in case your system is slow....

[upthecreek]

https://www.forbes.com/sites/gordonkelly/2018/08/04/microsoft-windows-10-subscription-cost-price-upgrade-update-windows-7-8/