So, after a couple weeks of use I've come to really understand Microsoft's new OS.
First and foremost know that the system I am now working with has a few things the average computer buyer probably doesn't do or look for in regards to their computer. The first is that I specifically chose a laptop without a touch screen. I have zero use for it so why should I deal with it. Next is the fact that I partitioned my HD so that I have 300gb allocated to the main system files and those that usually benefit from more direct access to those files. The rest of the TB drive acts more or less like a second HD but without an OS.
Lastly, I never signed up for a Microsoft account. So Cortana and all that cloud/cookie space that you're forced to deal with gives no problem to me.
If you are still waiting for your "reservation" or your download keeps erroring, PCWorld has a nice article that could help you: HERE
Now for what I know:
*This new Win 10 OS is more or less like the Mac OS X. At least from how all the updates and new system files seem to functions. What that means for those of you who are new to the OS game is that there probably won't be a Windows 11. Instead, Win 10 will update as needed with whatever structural changes are needed. Most likely, these big changes will initially be free like the new MAC X OS's, but it's Microsoft so they will make you pay out the nose once that free time is over.
*The start menu is back. Still different than Win 7 but I kinda like it. Out of the box it is full of apps, but those can be "unpinned" with a quick right click and a simple drag and drop can replace them with shortcuts of your choice. If that is still no your thing, the program Classic Shell is what I used in Win 8.
*Internet explorer is replaced by the new metro app Microsoft Edge. I hate it but if needing continuous access to your Microsoft account to use all the special features like making notes on a webpage and having that saved to your cloud and accessible by friends and lord knows what else, is your thing, then go ahead and use it. Otherwise you have to dig for Internet explorer. "C:Program Files (x86)Internet Explorer". It's ver 11
*Windows Photo Viewer is replaced by another app "Photo". Go HERE if you want Photo viewer back. It works perfect.
*On the apps... I don't use any. There are many processes and programs you can use to sorta replace the apps. Some can be removed but not all. To remove go to Settings and select System andn then Apps & Features. Click on the app you want to remove and click uninstall. If it is greyed out, then it can not be removed. After you've done that and installed all the non-app programs you like, go to the "Default apps" in the system section and replace the apps there.
*On privacy... Between Cortana's cache and Microsoft's incessant need to know everything you do to "better your experience" there is a whole slew of things you need to do to minimize that. Caprisha sent me a nice link with the steps to do it, HERE. Since I don't have a Microsoft account most of the online stuff didn't apply but the things under the Settings did.
*On Passwords... I never made one but there are ways to remove the need to use one. For login: Right click the Start Menu->Select Run-> type netplwiz->under users uncheck the top box. The rest can be dealt with from the Settings->Accounts section.
*Dvd ready is still not there. You have to choose your own program or use Win Media player's downloadable dvd codec. I use the Kawaii codec pack for all my Window's 10 video needs.
*On updates... The new OS is set to update whatever drivers it can automatically. If you have a Nvidia, that update usually comes through the Nvidia Experience program. Currently I am not updating my GPU driver since the newer one causes shadow flicker glitches in some of my games. The rest can be monitored through the Settings-> Updates section.
*On UAC (Account User control)... It is a pain in the ass when it comes to certain games and old programs, but if you want to use any apps or don't feel your system is safe enough unless it is on, then thats that. Otherwise:
Even if you set it to the lowest setting, it is still mostly active and intrusive. To shut off completely you have to make a change to your system's registry.
Right click Start->Run-> type regedit-> follow the paths "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPoliciesSystem"
don't choose any of the sub paths just click on "system". In the list on the right side double click "EnableLUA" and change it from "1" to "0" and restart your computer.
Remember, doing this will remove all ability to use metro apps and will leave parts of your system quirky. I haven't really figured out all the things it can remove access to cause I just leave the UAC at the lowest level.
If you don't disable it completely, there are ways to work around it. First and foremost is to not install your games and programs in the "Program Files" or Program Files (x86) folders. Next is to go in to the program's properties and under the compatibility tab and selecting the "Run as administrator".
The reason I learned all the is through all the modding I do to Elder Scrolls: Oblivion. The Mod managing programs need administrative action to alter the game files. weird file moving happens otherwise.
*On game compatibility... This is a crapshoot. I first learned this through my many failed attempts to install and run the "F.E.A.R Gold edition" disc version that I've had for many, many years. No matter what I did, even after I finally loaded it, I could not get it to load.
The other is my Knights of the Old Republic GOY edition. That is more of a GPU/CPU problem. My system is just to powerful for the game. There are work arounds to this and the game runs just fine now.
A good rule of thump is if it didn't work on Win 7 or it stopped working with Win 8, Win 10 doesn't solve that problem.
Note: I solved my F.E.A.R problem with the Steam install. It was only $10 for the three original games. I'll by Fear 2 and 3 later.
As many will say, this is where Microsoft is wanting to go. It is only a matter of time before Win 7 goes the way of XP. The fact that it is free is new but this offer will be over in less than a year. I have not really met with a true buggy moment that wasn't caused by my own tinkering. It starts up fast, looks fine and has given me less stress in these couple weeks than 8.1 did in a couple days. I'm not saying to give up your Win 7 love but if you have 8.1, upgrade, you have nothing to lose and a few better gains.
That's pretty much all that I've found that needs to be dealt with up front. I have more in my head and can easily figure out most things so ask is there is something you want to know or clarify.
NNM
The dream you locked away in a cold cage- I'll have you return it to me!
