How to handle upgrading to Windows 11
As you might know, Microsoft released their newest operating system, Windows 11, back in October 2021. I personally like the new look and feel of Windows 11. It has a slick and clean look, and it feels a bit faster. There are security and performance improvements too. The Windows Updates are smaller and quicker, and it conveniently gives you an estimated time it will take in order for Windows Updates to apply. Plus, Windows 11 also supports running Android apps, which is especially useful if you have an Android-based phone or tablet already.
If you have a Windows 10 computer that’s compatible with the upgrade, Microsoft should be bugging you about upgrading. Although I believe moving to Windows 11 is good and I suggest it for most home users,
I don’t suggest doing the upgrade yourself. Microsoft tries to get you to upgrade to Windows 11 with just a few clicks. But if there are issues with the upgrade, you could lose access to your data or computer. Plus, even if the upgrade appears to have worked, you may have performance and stability issues down the road from the way Microsoft by default upgrades Windows. We saw this years ago with upgrades from Windows 7 to 10.
If your computer has Windows 10, I suggest having a computer tech perform what is called a clean upgrade to Windows 11 rather than you do the upgrade yourself. This is where a tech backs up your data, wipes all the data from the hard drive, installs a fresh clean copy of Windows 11, and then restores your data. This requires more of an effort, but provides a much better upgrade and ensures longterm stability down the road. Plus, this provides a good refresh of the computer and it will likely make it faster.
Having a computer tech do a clean upgrade to Windows 11 also is a great time to upgrade the hard drive of the computer if it still has a traditional spinning drive. Upgrading to a solid state drive (SSD) will significantly help increase the speed and performance of the computer. This along with installing a fresh copy of Windows 11 will add more life to the computer.
If your computer still has Windows 7 (or even the earlier Vista or XP versions), I highly suggest to stop using it, due to it’s lack of security and support, and get a new computer with Windows 11. Microsoft stopped all updates and support for Windows 7 in January 2020. If you’re concerned about cost, consider buying a good refurbished machine from a local small business. If you’re concerned about getting used to the changes in Windows 11, a computer tech can usually set up a new computer very similar to your old one so you’re comfortable.
Eric Geier is the owner of On Spot Techs, a computer repair and IT services company offering on-site service at homes and businesses in the Dayton and Springfield areas and also a storefront at 4732 South Dixie Drive in Moraine. For more information, visit www.onspottechs.com or call 937-315-0286.