Windows 10

While the internet went crazy following the release of Windows 10, if you have an older system that cannot support that operating system you can download Windows 8.1 instead. It improves on the features found in Windows 8, and gives you access to some new features too.

Released in the fall of 2013, Windows 8.1 is a free and simple update to the previous OS. If you have Windows 8, your computer should notify you that the update is available and provide you with a link that lets you download and install it. You can also download a copy online and install it on your computer. Though you might expect the installation to go quickly, it can take hours to complete the process. Your computer may shut itself down and restart several times before completing the process.

Another issue with Windows 8.1 is that it doesn't work for everyone. Many people had a problem with the applying the update to their computers. After completing multiple steps, the update froze while only partially complete. If this happens, you'll need to manually shut down and restart your computer, which may cause a loss of data. These problems only occurred in a small number of cases.

The update includes an overhaul of your interface. You can now view some of the top apps on your home screen when first turning on your computer. Those apps let you view news, check out the weather, look at photos on your computer and even watch Netflix with a linked account. You can use a tile, the name Microsoft gave to its new buttons, to reach your desktop. On touchscreen devices, you can use those tiles with a touch of your finger.

Windows 8.1 also includes new features that helps you access and use apps designed and developed by Microsoft. You can now view documents and content saved in OneDrive, though you will need a registered account to use this app. It also comes with Skype and Bing integration. If you have an XBOX Live account, which you can get for free, you can even access music and other files from your gaming console on your computer. Microsoft released Windows 10, which serves as a new operating system, but you can still download and install Windows 8.1 to update your old Windows 8 OS.

Pros:

• Connects your XBOX Live or Microsoft account with your computer
• Includes integration with apps like Skype
• Gives you access to apps and programs owned by Microsoft
• Its Bing search system will now analyze and predict your online behaviors
• Removes some of the common problems that affected Windows 8

Cons:

• Long installation times that can take overnight
• May restart your computer multiple times
• No support for Facebook because of changes with Facebook Connect
• Doesn't solve all the problems with Windows 8
• Windows 10 is now available