With the release of Windows 10 only a few weeks away, many wonder what to expect when the latest version of Microsoft’s famous operating system becomes available for PC’s.
While home and personal computer users may plan on upgrading, many business owners have been left in the dust when it comes to acquiring information needed to make an upgrade decision. With a heavy focus on the home consumer and little to no information for business owners, we asked the experts at Buchertech on whether it is necessary to make the upgrade for your business.
The short answer? No, but it’s not entirely for the reason you may think.
“Microsoft hasn’t really reached out to us yet in regards to businesses upgrading to Windows 10,” says Buchertech Marketing Assistant Eric Ihssen. “It wasn’t like last time where they would get people and business ready for both the home and professional versions of their operating system.”
Ihssen states that while Buchertech has not received any materials or information specifically geared towards businesses, they still advise both personal computer users and businesses to hold off on upgrading to any new OS right away.
“We generally advise people to wait at least 6 months before upgrading,” says Ihssen. “It is during these first months that there are often a few bugs and glitches that come with new software, some of which can be more severe than others. “
Ihssen also warns against early adoption, as new software often can put customers in the position as a glorified tester more than a customer and user.
“Many times, it’s through communication with the users experiencing these issues which lead to problems being fixed,” says Ihssen. “While this is great for the end product, the people who helped to get to this point are more or less testers who paid money.”
Ihssen recommends that both smaller and larger businesses stick with the tried and true Windows 7 OS as a stable and safe way to run businesses.
“Windows 10 does not seem bad on the surface, there are a lot of interesting features that could very well be a benefit to some businesses such as the new internet browser MS Edge and their Siri competitor, Cortana, but overall nothing business intensive that can’t be done on Windows 7.”
For those still thinking about the free upgrade for Windows 10 that Microsoft has been heavily promoting, businesses may again, want to think twice.
“While it is indeed true that personal users can get the free Windows 10 upgrade, business both big and small do not have this option<’ says Ihssen. “They would have to pay for this new upgrade, the free version does not apply to them.”
While all the shiny new features may look appealing and the novelty of using the latest in technology is always a fun thought, Ihssen and Buchertech agree that sticking with Windows 7 is the best option for now.
“Windows 7 is the new Windows XP,” says Ihssen. “There’s a reason so many stuck with it and are continuing to stick with it for the time being. It’s dependable, reliable and causes little to no issues for businesses. Stick with what works best and stick with what you are guaranteed to work.”