Though the process of upgrading is simple and straightforward, there are a few things that you should do before upgrading. This ensures a smooth upgrading experience and no waste of time after upgrading.
Check for Hardware Compatibility
This is a no-brainer, the first thing you should do before upgrading is to check to see if your system hardware can run Windows 10. Though the system requirements for Windows 10 are not that demanding, below are the minimum system requirements. In fact, if you are currently running Windows 7 or 8, then you are good to go.
Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster processor or SoC RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) for 32-bit or 2 GB for 64-bit Hard disk space: 16 GB for 32-bit or 20 GB for 64-bit Graphics: DirectX 9 or later Display: 800×600
Alternatively, if you have the “Get Windows 10” app installed, then you can check for both the software and hardware compatibility from it.
You can learn more about the requirements and other instructions from this official Windows 10 specifications page.
Uninstall Unwanted Programs and Free Up Space
Before upgrading to Windows 10, make sure that you uninstall any and all unnecessary applications, especially any antivirus, malware and firewall software. Because of how they work, security software can sometimes cause problems after upgrading. You can uninstall the programs from the “Programs and Features” in the Control Panel.
Moreover, depending on your current Windows installation, you will need extra space on your C drive so that Windows can back up your current version before upgrading to Windows 10. Make sure that you have at least 15 to 20GB of extra space on your C drive. This helps you downgrade to the previous version if you ever need to.
Back Up Your Files, Folders, and Product Keys
Although Windows lets you keep installed programs, personal files, and folders while upgrading, it is always a good thing to back up all your files and folders in the C drive. When I say C drive, I’m taking about all general locations like Desktop, Downloads, Documents, Music, Video, Pictures, etc. Just manually scan the drive and back up as necessary. If you are using premium products like Microsoft Office, then back up the product keys using a free software like ProduKey, just in case. This lets you reinstall and register them quickly, if necessary.
Download Drivers Beforehand
Drivers are an important part of Windows, as they are responsible for the communications between the hardware and software. Before upgrading to Windows 10, check that your hardware vendor supports it and has released compatible drivers. You can check for the driver updates in the official vendor websites. If the drivers are available, then download them so that you can install them as soon as you are done upgrading.
This is an essential thing to do if you have a slow or unreliable Internet connection.
Remove or Disconnect Unnecessary Peripherals
This is one of the most ignored things, but you should always remove or disconnect any unnecessary peripherals, as they may sometimes interfere with the upgrading process which results in a failed upgrade. When I say unnecessary peripherals, I’m talking about things like attached Bluetooth devices, USB hubs, external hard disks, external keyboard and mouse (in case of laptops), etc.
Conclusion
Since the upgrading process has been improved so much, there shouldn’t be any problem(s), and I personally haven’t faced an issue while upgrading. That doesn’t mean you won’t face problems, so follow the above steps and always have a backup plan. If you’ve done everything as said, then you are good to upgrade your system to the all-new Windows 10. Do comment below sharing your thoughts and experiences about upgrading your current system to Windows 10.
