Just over three years ago the world was introduced to Windows 8, Microsoft’s “next great thing” to help users transition from the idea of the old school desktop into a more universal platform designed to be used in tandem with laptops, tablets, and smart phones.  The public’s general response: we hated it.

Overall the system was more stable than its predecessors, however the great departure from the normal desktop interface to the tiled start screen left many of us staring at the screen just asking – why?

Microsoft has heard our screams and Windows 10 – due to be released on July 29th is the answer.  While there are still some tiles here and there, the Start Menu that we all know and love is back, if with a few new added features.

Microsoft will be offering the upgrade to Windows 10 for free if it is done within the next year.  Most current Windows operating systems are eligible, however there are a few that are not. XP and Vista, you’re out. Other excluded operating systems are Windows 7 Enterprise, 8, & 8.1 Enterprise, and Windows RT/RT 8.1.  Most people have either the Home or Professional editions and will be good to go.

How do you get it?  Have your Windows Updates on (and up to date).  On July 29th you will be notified of a new available update for download, Windows 10.

Before upgrading please be sure your computer hardware can handle the new operating system. A list of minimum specifications can be found here: http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-10-specifications.

For an in depth review of Windows 10, please check out this review from techradar.com:

http://www.techradar.com/us/reviews/pc-mac/software/operating-systems/windows-10-1267364/review

The Charms bar is dead. I’m going to do a little dance now.