Al Lustie's Tips and Tricks

I was asked this morning about staying with Windows XP now that Microsoft has stopped all support for it, including stopping any security fixing.  "What should I do?" asked my friend.

I answered as honestly as I can, given that he will not be purchasing a new iMac.  I said, "Upgrade to Windows 8.1 if you can."  I sent him instructions on how to check and see how much memory his computer has (4 GB  RAM is about a minimum) and how to use http://www.crucial.com to find out what he can add, if anything is needed.

Then I mentioned that he would not be advised to get Windows 8.  Go for Windows 8.1.  When he does, if he does, I will recommend that he set it up to start with the Start menu on screen.  Avoid the tiles.  He doesn't use a Windows touch screen, so the tiles are nearly useless and won't get him where he wants to be.

What do you think?  Would you advise him the same way?  Have you experience that says differently?  Leave a comment and let us know.