Why you should reserver your free copy before the launch
Regardless of whether you follow tech blogs consistently or not, more than likely you’ve heard about how Microsoft is releasing their new operating system Windows 10 this summer. On July 29th, just a little over a month away, Windows 10 will be officially released, and Microsoft is giving away a free copy if you are currently running Windows 7 or 8 on your computer.
“Get Windows 10” Icon in the System Tray – What is it?
Microsoft has included an application in one of the more recent system updates to remind people of the 
release date, and to make the upgrade as simple as possible come time to launch. Since many users will be receiving a free copy of Windows 10, this is their elected method to release the update to all of the users who qualify for the free version. When you click on the icon in your system tray, you will be walked through a reservation process. A few things to note:
- You can have Windows download the file and they will notify once you can install it – choose to do it immediately or at a more convenient time.
- Email is only needed if you want email confirmation of your reservation – otherwise it is optional.
We frequently talk about security, and while this icon may draw some red flags, the application and its purpose is clearly dictated on Microsoft’s site. This is coming straight from Richmond, and using this application is safe and secure. (Official Microsoft Update Information)
Should I reserve my copy through the “Get Windows 10” Application?
Before we determine whether or not you should reserve a copy of Windows 10 through this application, it will help to understand why Microsoft is releasing the upgrade through this method. Ultimately there are two main reasons for Microsoft’s actions and we’ll go over both and give you our opinion on the reservation process.
Reason One
This is by far the largest download event that Microsoft has ever attempted. Each download will be 3GB being sent down from their server to us. According to Net Market Share, Windows 7 and 8 market share (those who are eligible for the free version) account for 70.64% of the desktop operating systems in use. In an attempt to deliver portions of these downloads in phases or at the very least to spread out some of the burden their systems will be put through, the reservation process tells Microsoft that they can begin downloading parts of the 3GB file before the launch (will not be able to install until launch date).
Reason Two
Microsoft has been pushing hard to get a very high early adoption rate for their new OS, which is imperative given the flop that was Windows 8. Not only are they giving this upgrade away for free to many, they want to ensure EVERYONE knows about it. For users who are not overly excited about the new OS, this tray icon allows a very simplistic way for them to fill out some basic information and have their computer take care of the rest. Ultimately, Microsoft wants the number of downloads on launch day to be something they can brag about and tote for years to come.
Why you should Reserve your Free Copy of Windows 10
If you’ve read this far down, you’re probably at least a little excited for the new version of Windows. Even if that reason is simply to switch off of Windows 8, then you should reserve your copy today. The hope is that prior to the launch date, your PC will at least have the majority of the 3GB upgrade file downloaded. Otherwise, come launch day when everyone is downloading the software, your wait times may be excruciating. Save some headache and let Windows start to deliver their update to you now.
Also, as this will make the installation easier whenever you decide to make the upgrade, it makes sense to have it already on your computer. Waiting for an install disk may take quite a while and it’s just one more step you need to worry about.
I Don’t Have the Windows 10 Icon – What do I do?
It’s possible that you have not seen the “Get Windows 10” application icon in your system tray. If this is the case, make sure of the following:
- Currently running legitimate copy of Windows 7 or 8
- Have installed all updates available for your computer (KB3035583 App is located in a system update)
If you have made sure of these two items and still do not have it on your computer, this could be due to your IT administrator setting up specific configurations for your updates. If you are unsure or would like to make sure that you reserve your copy, give Fuse a call and we can help you get the icon on your machine and complete the reservation process.
On the other hand, if you would like to remove the icon, we can help with that as well! As the process is fairly technical, it should be handled by an IT professional as to ensure no systems are effected or accidently edited.
