Must I upgrade to Windows 8?  6 Points to consider

By Jeandre de Beer

Windows 8 has been released for a while now and many people wonder if it is worth it to upgrade their operating system to Windows 8.

As with any new operating system there are some who love it and some who cannot stand it.

Windows 8 is a rapid change from previous operating systems. Some of the most popular and familiar user interfaces have been changed.

One of the biggest changes are the removal of the start button.

Most of us made extensive use of the start button in previous Windows versions. In Windows 8 it’s missing – and if you hit the windows button on your keyboard it takes you to a screen full of tiles with various confusing options.

Should I upgrade to Windows 8? Here are 6 points to consider

1.  Hardware Requirements

Make sure that your computer meets the minimum hardware requirements to install Windows 8.

The easiest way to check is to run the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistance utility available for download from Microsoft’s website.

The minimum requirements that this utility checks for are indeed a minimum.

In practice, you need a faster CPU, more RAM, a larger hard drive and a more powerful graphics card to help make the Windows 8 experience something better than just good enough.

2.  Do not upgrade to Windows 8 if you do not like Windows 7

Windows 8 is built on the same platform as Windows 7 so it will not bring back your favorite Windows XP features.

So if you hate Windows 7 you can be sure that you will dislike Windows 8 even more.

3.  Upgrade to Windows 8 if you like the latest technology

If you want the latest version of whatever, then there’s really nothing that prevents you from upgrading to Windows 8.

Windows 8 is basically Windows 7 with a new fresh look. You are probably the type of person that is already familiar with the new features of Windows 8 and ready to take the leap.

Just make sure to back up your important files before you start the upgrade process.

4.  For everyone else that is not so tech savvy …

If you do not know of a specific reason for you to upgrade – then don’t upgrade.

Windows 8 does not bring major changes that make the upgrade compelling for the average PC user.

If the operating system that you have works for you, then there’s no need to spend the extra cash to upgrade. Remember the old saying “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it?”

5.  Should you buy a new computer if it comes with Windows 8?

Most new computers are shipping with Windows 8 pre-installed now. Some manufacturers offer you the option to downgrade to Windows 7, but most don’t.

When purchasing a new computer there is no reason not go the Windows 8 route.

6.  Can I get my start button back?

So you have now made the transition to Windows 8 and you cannot stand the missing start button. For most people this is the biggest complaint about Windows 8.

Is there a solution? Yes, many third party vendors have written utilities to restore the start button. Some of the most popular free ones are Classic Start Menu and IO Bit.

If you need help installing these utilities or if you need assistance with any other computer problem – do not hesitate to contact us.

We can remotely connect to your computer in minutes to solve any problem you experience.