Before Starting Your Upgrade to Windows 10

Before doing any operating system upgrade, it is ALWAYS a good idea to do a complete system backup of files and programs on your computer (create a system image). If you do not have an external hard drive large enough to do this, here is what I suggest as a MINIMUM for anybody thinking about doing their own upgrade:

1. Back up each user account on the computer (this will save your documents, music, pictures, downloads, contacts and favorites).
2. Make sure you have the original media (usually a CD) for all the programs you would need to reinstall if you run into difficulties during your upgrade. 
3. Create a Recovery Drive  (click the link for detailed instructions) if you are using Windows 8.1. This will allow you to do a factory reset of your computer if you run into difficulties. 

Number 3 above would be VERY important if your upgrade hangs up during installation. This Recovery Drive (easily created on a USB stick) is the equivalent to your "Windows Disc" which must have to re-install Windows. 

So far I have not experienced major issues upgrading computers to Windows 10, but if your installation hits a snag, you will be GLAD you followed these three steps before beginning your upgrade. As always, if you would like help, More Tech Savvy offers these backups when doing a Windows 10 upgrade. Feel free to use our contact form to ask questions or use the Comment section below.