Well, it seems like some people have no choice. Apparently Microsoft has started downloading Windows 10 to those that qualify, whether they want it or not. (Sources: The Inquirer / Global News)
First, let me say that I've always used Windows, like it, feel comfortable with it and it's always met my needs. I'm also an update freak too, so signed up and downloaded Windows 10 a few weeks ago. Apart from my screensaver timeout reverting to one minute by itself, not many glitches that I have experienced.
I'm not a fan of Windows 10 updating itself whenever it feels like it. But, I read about that first and was aware that it was my choice to have those updates forced on me. I could have stuck with Windows 7 (never went to 8, looked horrible) and chose my updates whenever I wanted.
But the key word here is "choice." I knew what I was getting into and went ahead anyway.
As the Unofficial Computer Fixer for seniors in my condo complex -- thanks to my father-in-law -- I know there's tons of users out there that aren't familiar with their machines, and will let them handle the updates automatically.
As The Inquirer article above mentions, "'I know of two instances where people on metered connections went over their data cap for August because of this unwanted download. My own internet (slow DSL) was crawling for a week or so until I discovered this problem.
"'In fact, that's what led me to it. Not only does it download, it tries to install every time the computer is booted. It appears to download more data each time the install fails. It's a huge problem. What if the install partially succeeds? What if it continues to eat hard drive space?'
"One user pointed out that, if someone was on a 500MB data plan for a tablet and didn't connect to WiFi, this could eat up the better part of a year's worth of data."
These are not just annoying glitches, they are legitimate concerns and may be costing people money who don't have large data plans.
How are system admins facing this? They usually need time to check upgrades against company software, make sure it's all compatible etc. Imagine coming into work at 9:00 a.m. and your network is crawling, or worse -- down -- because Windows 10 is trying to download itself on all the computers and having problems. Nightmare!
As I've said to people before: "I love technology. I just don't trust it."
We rely on technology to make our lives easier ... but it will go wrong. Things will be happening that you are unaware of, and once you find out, it may be too late to rescue your brand's reputation.
It's a shame about this current "Updategate" as it's being called. Microsoft were on a roll with Windows 10, the reviews were good and people seemed to like it.
It may have blown all that goodwill and positive sentiment by simply not asking one question:
Do you want to download Windows 10 now?
- Yes
- No
John.
