T e c h N e w s a n d U p d a t e s
Windows 7, Windows 8,
Windows XP, Windows Vista... what's the story?
"In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, in the expert’s mind there are few."
- Shunryu Suzuki
Windows 8 and 8.1: Windows 8.1 (and Windows 8) has been much maligned since it was introduced in 2012. It's NOT a bad operating
system, but, because Microsoft forced a new interface on users, it never received favorable reviews and was not widely
adopted. Microsoft had a good plan for Windows 8: They wanted a single operating system for desktops, laptops, tablets and
smartphones...That's what prompted the changes. But, because we use each of these devices differently, most users longed for
their comfortable and familiar interface. In fact, for the few Windows 8.1 laptops we did sell, Debi created an interface
that allowed customers to use their systems just like Windows 7. To this day, Windows 8.1 ranks below Windows
7, Windows XP or Windows 10, in popularity.
Windows 10:
This is Microsoft's latest operating system, released during the summer
of 2015. We were slow and methodical in reviewing and testing it. In short, we like it for many reasons.
Microsoft brought back the familiar and comfortable interface that we loved in Windows 7 and added some speed and reliability. A
few of the features we liked are gone (gadgets, XP mode, etc.), but they've also added some nice features (Cortana, Edge browser,
etc.) that add to the experience. "Most" software programs and hardware devices work with Windows 10, but may require some tweaking.
If you're buying a new computer, you can feel comfortable with Windows 10. Microsoft will let you upgrade your Windows 7 or
8.1 computer for free, but, for many people, there are reasons to stay with what you have... at least, for now. We've written
a Newsletter about the upgrade process that you should read, before upgrading. Let us know if you want us to send it to you
(see the "Contact Us" tab).
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