10 things we love about Windows 10

Launched in 2015, Windows 10 is the leading operating system with a market share of 40% of users. Over a third of PC users however are still using Windows 7.

Since Windows 7’s extended support ends on 14 January 2020, if you’re now considering upgrading, you should check out these 10 great features. We think they make Windows 10 Microsoft’s best operating system yet:

1. Biometric technology for ultra secure, easy log ins

Windows Hello uses biometric technology to instantly recognise you using your camera or a fingerprint reader. The result is a three times faster login process – and of course, none of the faff of remembering (and forgetting) a password. Windows Hello even works with compatible apps including Dropbox and 8 Zip. If you’d rather, you can also use companion devices like your phone, smart watch or digital wristband for secure, automatic and password-free sign-in.*

2. Top security comes as standard

Thanks to Windows Defender Anti-Virus, Windows 10 has the very best built-in, ongoing security to keep PCs and other devices safe. This includes Windows Firewall, which is designed to keep hackers and malicious software from gaining access to your device, and ransomware protection to protect valuable data and documents.

When online, the Windows Defender SmartScreen, which is built into the Windows 10 Microsoft Edge browser, will help keep you protected from malicious websites and downloads. With nothing to install, configure or subscribe to, top security with Windows 10 is absolutely standard.

3. Mark up, jot down and doodle with a digital pen

Giving you the benefits of digitally written notes, annotations and drawings, Windows 10 ink-enabled devices bring your screen and documents to life. Whether you want to mark up documents with amends or jot down an address for Maps to suggest the best route, you can use a digital pen to allow you to be both productive and creative.

4. Fast data handling

No more wasting time waiting for your computer to open or save files. Windows 10 effortlessly handles and stores large volumes of data without delay. By significantly reducing CPU usage, it can also effortlessly run multiple big apps simultaneously, like Adobe Creative Suite and Autodesk.

5. Intelligent assistance with Cortana

Cortana is Microsoft’s virtual assistant. By talking to her, you can free up your time and your hands by giving her tasks, like setting a reminder, or asking her to write and send an email while you make yourself a cuppa. There’s also a wide range of dictation commands you can use to tell her what do to. Like her rivals, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri, Cortana is improving all the time. A Windows 10 upgrade is the perfect time to get some Cortana in your life.

6. Perfectly in sync

You can forget about emailing yourself those photos you’ve recently taken, or trying to find that document you had downloaded and were reading on the train. Windows 10 will keep your PC, tablet and phone in sync for a seamless, enjoyable and productive digital experience. Regardless of what device you’re using, you’ll be able to access the same files, photos, emails, websites, texts and more. As Microsoft puts it, “you’ll be able to pick up where you left off, wherever you left off”.

7. View up to four windows simultaneously

Forever multi-tasking? With Windows 10 you can make work more productive and enjoyable. Easily snap up to four windows into place on your screen, so you can view all the files you’re working on without having to flick back and forth. Here’s how.

8. Work late comfortably

When big workloads and last-minute deadlines mean you have to work late, the last thing you need is eye strain and trouble sleeping as a result of blue light exposure. With the Windows 10 Night light, your screen displays warmer colours so you can work in comfort and with any luck, sleep in peace.

9. Fantastic accessibility

Windows 10 is a great reflection of Microsoft’s commitment to accessibility. With dozens of features providing vision, hearing, physical and cognitive support, Windows 10 can transform technology experiences and supports the diversity of everyone who uses it.

10. Turn your computer into touchscreen

If you’d rather tap and swipe rather than click, then Windows 10 gives you new ways to use your new PC by turning it into a touchscreen. There’s also a stripped back tablet mode, if you prefer.

Why is it important to upgrade Windows 7?

If you’re still using Windows 7, our short video explains why it is so important to upgrade before Microsoft’s extended support ends in January:

Upgrade to Windows 10 with the support of Orbits IT

Whether you plan to upgrade to Windows 10 now or later in the year, please contact us today on 02920 003 313 / 0121 270 3377. We are happy to provide a no obligation audit of your existing IT and schedule any necessary upgrades.

* Windows Hello requires specialised hardware including a Windows Hello capable device, fingerprint reader, illuminated IR sensor or other biometric sensors and capable devices. Find out more here.