Eleanor from Taylor, PA writes:
I have windows XP………can’t get one of the new computers, cost too much. What can I do?
With Microsoft ending security and bug fixes for Windows XP in April of 2014, it’s time for you to look for another system. One option to to find out if your computer can be upgraded to Windows 7 or Windows 8.1. Microsoft does have tools for checking if your computer will work with 7 and 8.
Click here to use the Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor.
Click here to use the Windows 8.1 Upgrade Assistant.
Depending upon your needs another option might be to switch to a less expensive options such as a tablet. Learn more about that here.
You might also consider looking into a refurbished computer with the Windows 7 operating system. Many are available for less than $200.
~ Cynthia
If the user does mainly Web surfing & email, another possibility is to install a version of Linux, like Ubuntu, on the computer. It is user friendly, but will not run Windows programs. There are a lot of free Linux programs available that will perform the same functionality of Windows programs, but it’s best if the user doesn’t do a lot on the computer except basic Internet browsing & email, etc.
Also, myself and many friends that cannot afford another computer at this point but don’t want to go to a tablet, may upgrade to Vista. Usually there are no memory stick upgrade requirements unless your system is really old and all the necessary ones are for Drivers that will make Vista and your computer “talk to eachother”. For instance mine only needs two 3 driver updates from my computer manufacturer and are usually found for free, and the Vista program itself which I have found for less than 50 bucks.
This link —> http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=31870 will download the tool necessary to see if your system is upgrade-able to Vista. And let you know what your computer will need, and then if you need to, someone at worldstart should be able to help or any small computer repair shop. I would back up all important pics and files, anything that cannot be downloaded from the internet, along with any program execute files that you do not have disks for, onto an external hard drive before upgrading.
Microsoft has already stated that Vista updates will be going til April 2017 which will give you close to three years to save up and then see whats out there when you need to. It might not be the best solution but if you’re in my shoes you will take it. Hope this helps 🙂
MK took the words right out of my mouth. If you really can’t afford a newer computer Linux will keep your old one going until something breaks in it.
You can use Ubuntu on any computer. It is Free !
http://www.ubuntu.com/desktop
Question: With respect to Linux Ubuntu o/s, if I use it to replace XP system will it replace my desktop Icons as on my XP?