Things to Know While Upgrading a Computer

5 Things to know While Upgrading Your Computer

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In this post, I will share 5 essential things to know while upgrading your computer. Your old computer does not work the way it did a few years back? Maybe now is the time for an upgrade.

But upgrading a computer is not that easy that it seems. You need to take care of a few things while updating or upgrading your computer.

You might want to check up on: Important smartphone buying guide that works!

Why is it important?

How do you think you will upgrade your computer? Are you thinking about buying a new computer (online or offline does not matter) and start using it? Or are you thinking about changing the hardware and upgrading software (e.g., Windows 10 to Windows 11)?

It does not matter what process you choose to upgrade a computer. But the thing that matters is how you do it.

It is important to safely upgrade a computer by avoiding some things to ensure that:

  • All the personal data is safe
  • You can run your favorite games/software
  • Your laptop can support you for few years

It all can be achieved by avoiding some things. By the end of this post, I’m sure you’ll learn pretty much everything about upgrading computers safely.

1. Requirements

It is necessary to understand your requirement before deciding on your new computer or upgrading the older one. Before making up your mind, ask these questions to yourself:

  • What software will you run?
  • Who will use the computer?
  • What is your budget?

Such types of questions can help you find a better upgrading option. For example, if you use the computer to run high-end software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, GTA V, etc., you need enough resources.

Also, it would be best if you thought according to the budget. Here is how you can set these things. Take a notepad or paper and write down the following things:

  1. Your budget
  2. Recommended hardware specification of software you might use in the future (RAM, CPU, Storage, etc.)
  3. How long do you plan to use the same computer?

2. Windows, Mac, or Linux

Do you have any preferences in mind? You could choose one from Windows, Mac, or Linux. Here is a quick comparison of all three operating systems:

Windows: Suitable for beginners and is not much costlier. You could run most programs and games efficiently. You can choose from so many brands such as HP, Dell, Asus, MSI, etc.

Mac: An Apple product allowing you to provide the quality and trust from Apple. You will only get one brand option. Good battery backup (laptops), and regular updates. It’s a bit costlier than Windows.

Linux: Available for free of cost. You can install Linux on a low-end computer. You might even run Linux on your computer without upgrading its hardware. Here is a list of the top 16 lightweight Linux for an older computer.

My suggestion:

Linux is not suitable for a beginner. However, there are many tutorials available to install Linux safely on your computer. Also, you would not be able to run your favorite games and software on Linux. Would you mind checking the software recommendation first?

On the other side, Windows is a cheaper alternative to Mac and primarily used a computer operating system (used in more than 80% of computers worldwide).

So, the winner here is Windows here. However, you might want to check a comparison on Mac VS PC.

Windows 10 to Windows 11

3. Upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11

Windows 11 is the major upgrade to Windows 10 that is yet to launch later this year officially. You might think about upgrading your Windows 10 computer to the latest Windows 11.

Here are some points you need to keep in mind:

  • Check complete system requirements here.
  • Wait for the official launch and do not try to install an illegal copy of Windows 11. It might contain malware or other security threats. Check the latest news here.
  • Check the manufactures website (or online stores) to compare Windows 11 compatibility.
  • Will the software or game support Windows 11?

Please note that Windows 11 will be free to upgrade once it’s officially out. There is no need to install a cracked version.

4. Take Backup

It is the most important thing you need to do. One mistake or wrong step, and you could permanently lose access to all your files and other documents.

Make sure you take a backup of all the data to restore it after the upgrade is complete. We suggest getting a good external hard drive with enough space to store all data.

There is no need to use any external backup and restore software. Simply plug in the hard drive and copy-paste the folders you want to secure.

Please note that the process of taking backup might take too long, and you could spend days. However, it’s better to wait than to lose access.

5. Future Capabilities

Will your computer still work after 2 or 3 years? While upgrading your computer’s hardware or operating system, think about its future capabilities.

A computer should have a minimum of 2 to 3 years of lifespan. Most computers can survive an average of 5 to 8 years, depending upon the maintenance.

Here is a quick overview of computer lifespan:

  • A laptop in the $600 – $700 range should last for at least 2-4 years
  • A computer in the $700 – $1000 range should last for at least 3-5 years
  • And a computer above the $1000 range could last for more than 5-6 years.

FAQs about Upgrading Computers

Which is better: Mac or Windows?

This is a bit complex question as both Mac and Windows serve their purpose according to the pricing and features. However, Mac beats Windows in terms of security and lifespan.

How to speed up a slow computer without spending any money?

You could improve the performance of an old computer by optimizing the graphics, clearing the cache, disabling the background internet connection. Read the guide here to fix computer freezing problems.

How to upgrade Windows 10 to Windows 11?

Windows 11 is not officially rolled out yet. You will get a free upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11 after its launch later this year. Before that, you can check the minimum system requirements for your computer.

That was all about essential things to keep in mind while upgrading a computer. Always remember it’s better to have patience than to lose some data.

If you face any problem related to your computer or smartphone, please feel free to get in touch with Trickkas. Also, do not forget to share your valuable feedback with me in the comment box below.

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Kapil Choudhary Author Trickkas

Kapil Choudhary

Hi, I am the creator of this blog. I started this website to help people digitally and be their internet companion. If I'm not writing, I'm probably helping someone with their website or trying to complete a Netflix series I recently started watching.

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