Windows 8.1 is here, here is what to expect

It has been a year in the making, but Windows 8.1 is here, here are some features / updates to expect,

1. Start/Boot to Desktop

2. Changed Backgrounds and Lock Screen 

3. More Tile Sizes

4. Universal Bing Search From Anywhere 

5. Redesigned App Store

6. New Paint and Camera Apps 

7. Added App Resizing Features 

8. More Keyboard and Mouse Support

Microsoft has a link to download here, 

The Windows Store

And here are some great reviews of the changes, 

Windows 8.1 now ready for PCs — here's what it is and how to get it

Windows 8.1 Release is Here: Free Update in Windows Store

Windows 8.1 now available to download

The update looks bug free, but as with all new software releases expect some updates to come out in the first couple of weeks. Feel free to let me know what your experience with Windows 8.1 is in the comments. 

Retiring Windows XP and Office 2003

In approximately 220 days, support for Windows XP and Office 2003 will end.   Most Small and Medium business support groups will start phasing out support in October of 2013.   What this means to you,

- Security Risks

- Compliance Risks

- Lack of Independent Software Vendor Support

- Lack of Hardware Vendor Support

Here is even more detail, 

- Retiring Windows XP (Microsoft)

- XP's retirement will be hacker heaven

- Support ends in 2014 for Windows XP and Office 2003 (Microsoft)

If these were big enough issues, the looming issue is 41% of all Windows users still use Windows XP.

I see three possible outcomes to the Windows XP end of support.

- Nothing happens immediately, but over 3 - 6 months software starts to change and is no longer compatible with Windows XP drivers.

- In the months leading up to the retirement date prices for other Operating Systems (Windows 7, Windows 8) increase and you pay more to upgrade.

- Hackers and other folks aware of the end of support date store up viruses, malware, etc. and then set them loose on the unsupported Windows XP user base.   With such a broad installation base this could be a potential nightmare.

What should you do?

In my opinion, upgrade now.  Avoid the risk of lack of support, gain the benefit from improved performance, and mitigate your risk. 

Why I won't be updating to Windows 8 immediately

There has been a lot of hype over Windows 8 and the new interface.  I like Windows and think that it is a solid OS.   That being said there are three reason why I won't update immediately, 

1) The Graphical User Interface.   It is completely different than any previous OS.   Here is a video that show the extent to which some users might be confused.  

How Real People Will Use Windows 8

2) Waiting is always better.   Even with the best tested OS's there are always bugs.  If you wait 6 months you are guaranteed to get  less issues and bugs.

3) Window 8 is built for touch screens.   If you do not have a touch screen, why not wait until the next hardware upgrade and then upgrade.   

Let me know you thoughts below.