Windows 8.1 upgrade to Windows 10
Even if you don’t see a message from the get win ten application on the taskbar, if the upgrade files have been downloaded to your computer, you can start the process through Windows Update.
However, you won’t be able to get it through Windows Update in the modern Settings app. If you try, you will see the following message:
Desktop versions of Windows Update are required. To do that, use the Windows Key + X keyboard shortcut or right-click the Start button and select Control Panel from the user menu – which is also available in Windows 10 (it’s called quick menu access in 10).
Scroll to the bottom of the Control Panel and select Windows Update.
You will see that the Windows 10 upgrade is ready, and you can start with the click of a button.
Note that updates may fail the first time. I tried it again three times before it started working. Once it starts, just like with updates in Windows 7, you will need to select Accept
You will then get the option to start the upgrade now or schedule it for a while afterward. Again, just like upgrading Windows 7, you only get a three-day one-stop-shop to schedule the upgrade.
Once it starts, sits back, grab your mobile phone and play some Angry Birds or something because the process can take a long time.
You will get the familiar screen shown below, letting you know where the upgrade is at. If it seems to hang, be patient, especially the first few weeks many people are upgrading at once. Also, note that your computer will reboot a couple of times, just let it do this.
Once done, you will get a greeting screen, and you begin clicking through the on-screen installation instructions.
Unless you are special about installing your Windows, go with Express Install during installation (compared to custom settings). It allows you to get up and run a lot faster, and if you want to make any adjustments, you can do it later.
It will also let you know about new applications like Music, TV and Movie Store, photos, and a modern web browser. And then, you can sign in with the Microsoft account info you use for Windows 8.1.
Next, you’ll need to wait for a little while Microsoft sets up your apps and get things ready for you.
Once that’s done, you’ll be taken to your new Windows 10 desktop and can start checking out all the cool new features like the new Start menu, Cortana, and Action Center.
Also, keep in mind that there will be an update waiting for you. Windows 10 requires you to install updates automatically, so you get them without thinking about it. But, if you want to make sure you’ve updated everything right away, after the upgrade is complete, go to Settings> Update & Security> Check for Updates.
