Important Windows 10 notification – should you upgrade?

Microsoft will be releasing the newest version of their operating system, Windows 10, on July 29th. Microsoft is encouraging all Windows 7 and 8 users to reserve their free upgrade with a notification in the taskbar of their system. The icon will look like a small, white, windows logo and hovering over it with the mouse will display the text ‘Get Windows 10.’

Windows10 Popup

 

Clicking the icon will bring up a window discussing how the upgrade works and ultimately an area to enter your information to reserve your Windows 10 upgrade

Windows 10 Upgrade Reservation Window

It is not a phishing attack

Many are worrying that the alleged free upgrade might be a phishing attack, but rest assured, the icon is real and so is the free copy of Windows. Here are some facts about Windows 10 and the ‘Get Windows 10’ upgrade icon:

Is this “reservation” popup legit?

  • Yes it is. It’s installed by Windows Update KB3035583.

Should I Upgrade?

  • At this time powersolution.com recommends remaining on your copy of Windows. Although Microsoft has made many significant improvements to Windows 10 over Windows 8, such as reintroducing the start menu, it is still unsure how many of our clients business applications will function with the new version of Windows.

Why am I being asked to “reserve” Window 10 digital download?

  • The Windows 10 download is about 3-4 GB. Microsoft probably needs to schedule a roll out to serve an estimated 500 million downloads of that size. Inputting your email probably acts similar to a “let me know when Windows 10 is ready” reminder.

After I make the reservation, will Windows 10 start downloading and installing?

  • No. Windows 10 isn’t finished yet or released to the public yet. If you put in your email, they’ll send you an email when the Windows 10 upgrade is ready.

Is it free? Some sites say I have to start paying for a subscription after the first year.

  • Yes, it is free, as long as you take the upgrade before summer 2016. As long as your device is operational, you will get any and all Windows 10 updates for free.

Will I lose all my data?

  • We do not believe so. This process is the very similar as upgrading from Vista to 7, or 8 to 8.1. All your programs and data should be migrated over. As always, though, common sense prevails, make backups of your important data before taking the upgrade.

How is your state of IT? Call Us: (855) 551-7760 with any questions.