Windows 10 is receiving positive reviews and it is a worthwhile improvement in security and functionality for many users.  As Microsoft is attempting a few things for the first time, some new concepts have been misunderstood by some users.  However, in extensive beta testing, there have been very high rates of technical success and high levels of satisfaction.   The following are key considerations in migrating to new operating system:

* Research, planning, and ensuring prerequisites are met are a valuable starting point

* Users do not have to update immediately to take advantage of the great free offer for WIN7 and WIN8 upgrades.  Upgrades can be delayed until JULY 2016 if desired.  Some individuals may want to strategically wait, as very heavy Internet traffic is anticipated for next few days.

* BACKUP all your photos, Office documents, and other items in advance (32GB USB thumb drives are around $12) … While probably vast majority of all updates will go smoothly, it is always beneficial to backup your data

* Creating a WIN7 or WIN8 system recovery disk in advance is always helpful, and you can search the internet for techniques

* It is beneficial to scan for MALWARE in advance of the upgrade to ensure you have a clean virus-free system.  While the WIN10 kernel replaces the older O/S, this action prevents any potential for carrying malware across that might be embedded in files, registry settings, or Windows components)

* Anticipate the process taking one or more hours (and possibly longer depending on complexity of system)

* Please do not interrupt the install process (moving from an existing operating system to a new one is a time consuming process)

* Please REBOOT and follow all instructions as prompted.

 

The following key resources are excellent:

MORE ON HOW TO UPDATE WINDOWS 10 for free
http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-upgrade

WINDOWS 10 UPGRADE – FAQ (EXCELLENT GUIDE)
http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-faq

WINDOWS 10 UPGRADE – CNET article
http://www.cnet.com/au/news/heres-how-to-upgrade-to-windows-10/