Windows 10 is the latest version of Windows and there is a lot to like about it. They have reintroduced a lot of functions back into the start menu, have made the operation system more secure, and introduced a new web browser to replace Internet Explorer. The purpose of this article is not to extol the virtues of Windows 10, but to make you aware of Microsoft’s upgrade strategy.
Windows 10 is a free upgrade to most every computer running Windows 7, 8 or 8.1. What this means is that you can download and install the software for free. In fact, Windows has made it so easy that they will download the update on to your computer and then prompt you to install it. You are told that you can roll back to your old Windows within 30 days and then it is off to the races. Seems pretty straight forward right? Well, like most things in life, stuff can happen. We recommend planning for your upgrade. Consider the following before pressing that button and installing the update:
- What versions of QuickBooks are you using? I am not aware of any problems running QuickBooks Point of Sale Desktop V12 and Windows 10. I have several clients using it today. We have had a couple of clients where we needed to reinstall the software after the upgrade as it seemed that some files were damaged. An un-install and reinstall fixed the problem.
- For QuickBooks Financial Desktop, we are recommending only using QuickBooks 2015 and 2016 or Enterprise 15 or 16. Keep in mind that QuickBooks comes hardwired to use Internet Explorer for a number of features and if Internet Explorer (IE) is not enabled, you might run into some problems. IE can be enabled under programs and features if needed.
- Consider what hardware you are using. Older printers may not have Windows 10 drivers and therefore will need to be replaced.
- Consider what other software you are using. Check with those vendors to ensure they are Windows 10 compatible.
So in short, investigate before upgrading and upgrade with caution assuming that Murphy’s Law is still alive and well. I certainly wouldn’t consider upgrading in the morning before opening for business. If you have multiple machines consider upgrading the least critical and then going from there. Additionally, while Windows is supposed to make a backup of the complete system before upgrading, I would go into Windows backup and make another copy just to make sure. For help or more information -on any of this, contact our office. 877-467-0451 | info@englishmgmt.com
Author: English, William S., President of English Management Solutions, Inc. December 2015
