All you need to know about Windows 10

This Windows 10 FAQ provides all answers you need to know before going for installation. Check out the article to avoid surprises and frustration.

Everything You Need To Know About Windows 10

Windows 10 has kept many on hold for long. The last ‘accepted’ operating system was Windows 7 as most people had issues with Windows 8. Here is all you need to know about the new operating system so that you can handle it easily.

When will Windows 10 be released?

Announced more than a year ago, Windows 10 will finally be released towards the end of summer – July 29 to be exact. Not all editions will be released at the same time. The Windows Mobile 10 as well as Windows 10 Enterprise editions will be released later this year, the exact date not yet fixed by Microsoft.

How to upgrade to Windows 10?

You need to be running Windows 7 SP1 or Windows 8.1 to be able to upgrade to Windows 10. You cannot upgrade directly from Windows XP or Vista. You will be able to upgrade using the Get Windows 10 App, Windows Update or using an ISO that will be released before July 29. Note that the first time, you have to upgrade and you cannot perform a clean install. If you wish a clean install, you can do it after you upgrade to Windows 10 from your current operating system once.

How does the Windows 10 upgrade work? Can I move the installation?

Windows 10 has to be installed using the update method for the first time. During this time, Microsoft will ascertain that you are using a genuine Windows OS and will tie the serial key of the current installation to the Device ID. Thus you get Windows 10 installation for lifetime of the Device. You cannot move the installation to another device using the same serial key of current operating system. One key will permit only one upgrade and that too, on the device Windows 10 is first installed. If you try to move it to another device via system imaging or by installing Windows 7/8.1 on other device (with same key) it will not work.

What edition will I get upon upgrading to Windows 10?

This depends on which edition you are using currently. If you are using Windows 7/8.1 Home, you will be upgraded to Windows 10 Home. If you are using Windows 7/8.1 Pro, you will get Windows 10 Pro. If you are using Windows 7/8 Enterprise, you will be upgraded to Windows Enterprise. Note that the Enterprise edition is not eligible for free upgrade. You will have to buy the Windows 10 in case of Enterprise editions and in case of non-genuine Windows.

What Editions are available in Windows 10?

Windows 10 will be available in many editions to suit both desktop computers and mobile. Note that only Windows 10 Home and Windows 10 Pro will be released for manufacture on July 29 2015. If you wish to go for Enterprise edition or if you want mobile upgrade, your wait will be longer as Microsoft is yet to decide the date for rolling out these upgrades.

If I upgrade to Windows 10, can I go back to Windows 8.1? What will be the serial number?

You can always go back to Windows 8.1 or Windows 7 using the installation media. A clean install will make it possible for you. The keys or serial number required to activate the operating systems are the same that you were using prior to upgrading to Windows 10.

If you are looking for more on Windows 10, check the Windows 10 Tips and Tricks and Windows 10 Problems & Solutions posts at The Windows Club.

About the author

Anand Khanse

Anand Khanse is a Windows enthusiast and loves using his PC. He is the Admin and founder of TheGeeksClub.com and TheWindowsClub.com.