Windows 10 Launch: 5 things you should know before Windows 10 launch date

Are you psyched for the Windows 10 launch date? Lots of us are looking forward to the shift to the new Windows 10, and no wonder, since it brings back the beloved Start Menu from Windows 7, an improved voice-control system (aka Cortana), and, all in all, a better interface.

To avoid last-minute surprises and frustration, here are our top-5 tips to get you ready for the shift:

1. Reserve your free upgrade to Windows 10.

To select this option, simply click on the small Windows icon on the the taskbar. When the upgrade is ready, you will get a notification to schedule the installation – the build will have been already downloaded automatically, so the final installation will go faster.

2. Back up all your important files.

Take care of your files before the Windows 10 launch date. Do this before upgrading, either via an external hard drive or OneDrive. Your files are saved on the hard drive of your device by default, but it’s always good to have a plan B in case something goes wrong.

3. Make sure your antivirus protection is up to date.

Windows will uninstall and then reinstall the latest version of your antivirus software, preserving your settings prior to the upgrade. If your subscription is out of date, it will enable Windows Defender.

4. Prepare to say goodbye.

Media Center won’t be available on Windows 10. Instead, Microsoft will provide a free DVD-playback app for Windows Media Center users. Also, some apps that came from your OEM may be removed prior to the upgrade installation. For more details and to avoid any unwelcome surprises, check out the Windows specs for the upgrade.

5. Set aside an hour for the installation.

That is, if you reserve your upgrade before the Windows 10 launch date. If not, count on needing some extra time for downloading the build, as well. In any case, you won’t be able to use your device during the upgrade process, so plan  accordingly – you might want to run the upgrade overnight.