Windows 10 is a big deal for Microsoft. The company is so keen to get everyone running its latest operating system that it's even decided to give it away for free. It has also been referred to as the "last version" of Windows. From now on, instead of each new version of Windows arriving with a big splash, updates will be continuous, just as they are with your web browser: no-one talks about running "Chrome 43", they just say, "Chrome".

It's also the operating system that Microsoft hopes will make people love Windows again, after Windows 8's interface flabbergasted and infuriated those coming from older Windows versions. It's designed to work properly across desktop PCs, laptops, touchscreen laptops, tablets, phones and even the Xbox, providing a consistent experience and, phones and Xbox aside, the same applications.

Microsoft's latest operating system has many exciting new features, which we?ve explored in detail. If you?ve already taken the plunge and installed Windows 10, our guides will help you become an expert; if you've yet to decide, it will show you why this is one free upgrade you don?t want to miss.

Installing Windows 10

Haven't got Windows 10 yet? No problem, we'll show you how to get the new operating system onto your PC, laptop or tablet. First we'll look at whether you're eligible for a free upgrade to the new Windows, and look into the slightly murky world of Windows 10 licensing, where we see what you're really getting for 'free' from Microsoft.

Then we'll provide step-by-step advice on how to install it. We'll also show you how to make a Windows 10 install disc, in case you've claimed a free upgrade and want to perform a clean install at a later date.

Getting everything setup

Windows 10 has plenty of features built-in, especially if you use Microsoft services such as Outlook email, but it's also capable of handling other popular providers' services too. Here we'll show you how to setup your email, how to get your system and files backed up, and how to add additional users so you can share using your PC with friends and family, including children.


How to set up and use the Calendar in Windows 10

How to set up and use email in Windows 10
How to add a user in Windows 10 and turn on parental controls
How to set up a backup (and restore it)

Where's the ... ?

So you've got Windows 10 installed and most of the services are up-and-running. It's looking shiny, smart and new, but where's that feature you've always relied on? Not to worry, we show you how to replace a number of key missing features that you enjoyed in previous versions of Windows.

How to replace things you'll lose: Media Center, DVD playback, Minesweeper, Solitaire
Master the desktop

Windows is pretty easy to use, but you can do so much more with it, and so much more quickly, if you learn a few basic keyboard shortcuts. Here we'll show you how to switch between tasks at an instant, create virtual desktops so you can divide up work and play and keep your windows organised and we show you Windows 10's powerful new tools for windows management, letting you work on multiple apps with ease.

How to use virtual desktops
How to task switcher
How to window management

Windows 10 mobile

Windows 10 isn't just available on PCs, laptops and tablets (all though it's pretty impressive it now works on all these rather well), you'll soon be able to enjoy it on Windows Phone handsets too. We've got the latest pre-release build, so you can see what all the fuss is about.

Windows 10 Mobile first look

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