Windows 8 looks distinct from any of the systems that have come before it. And, generally, the reviews have been positive. If you are prepared to upgrade to the new system, here are some strategies to ensure the transition goes smoothly. If you would like more tips, read this article on the Smallbiz Technology website that goes more in-depth. Here are the tips we thought were most critical.
Do the Research
The first thing you need to check before upgrading may seem obvious. Make sure your computer can run efficiently on Windows 8. A machine must have the following requirements to be able to run Windows 8: 1GB of RAM, 16GB of hard-drive space, and a 1GHz processor. These are the same requirements as Windows 7. So if you are already running Windows 7, there’s no need to check.
Backups
There are many reasons why having a secure backup of your important documents is a good idea. But particularly before you begin an upgrade it is crucial. You could store your info in an external hard drive but if you feel that this can be expensive or you simply have too much data to move easily, you can opt for a private cloud service. Many managed service providers (MSPs) offer these services. This will ensure that your essential data is safeguarded if something goes wrong throughout the upgrade.
Setup utility
To make sure your computer will support Windows 8, Microsoft offers a setup utility that searches your computer for the appropriate elements. This is important, particularly if you are running Windows XP as Microsoft will stop supporting XP in 2014. After you upgrade, you are going to need to reinstall all of your drivers and software. So you will need all of your installation disks. This may seem like a hassle, but the new features of Windows 8 are worth it and in the long run you will be glad you made the upgrade. But before you do, make sure you take the appropriate steps.
>
