Windows 10

Main Article: Operating Systems

Windows 10 is an operating system of the Microsoft Windows family. The transition immediately to version 10, bypassing 9, reflected the company's desire to distance itself from the not very popular previous version of Windows 8. Since launching the ambitious but flawed Windows 8 in 2012, Microsoft has been in a state of constant struggle to survive. After an unsuccessful attempt to make Windows better for touch devices, Microsoft received legions of disappointed customers.

IT executives were alienated by Windows 8 because of its radically different, touch-oriented user interface, an alternative traditional desktop interface enabled to run legacy Windows applications that lacked key familiar features, namely the Start button and Start menu. Switching between the two modes was also implemented clumsily.

The release of Windows 10 reflected Microsoft's desire to bring Windows "back to the future."

"History shows that Microsoft has focused too much on the touch interface and distanced itself from PC users who need, at least for a while, good experience with the keyboard and mouse," said Al Gillen, an analyst at IDC. "The main focus of Windows 10 is to change the balance of experience, so commercial customers will see the value of Windows 10 that they don't see in Windows 8."

Microsoft tried to solve these and other problems with varying success in subsequent revisions and updates to Windows 8. However, most IT executives have remained loyal to a solid, resilient Windows 7, unwilling to expose their end users to long, performance-affecting training.

In Windows 10, Microsoft was immersed in solving user interface issues, and, apparently, it finally did everything right. The traditional desktop interface began to look much more like Windows 7, and the touch-optimized user interface became more intuitive. In addition, the interaction between the two interfaces has been significantly improved.

Popularity of Windows

Main article: Popularity of Windows

Windows 10 for Business

Main article: Windows 10 for Business

What difficulties are faced by companies that want to use Windows 10 in an enterprise environment.

Windows Security

Main article: Windows Security

Windows 10 errors

Main article: Windows 10 errors

Windows 10 Lean

• Windows 10 Lean

Windows 10 S

Main article: Windows 10 S

Windows 10X

Main article: Windows 10X

2023: Microsoft Tech Support Employees Use Pirate Software to Hack Windows

In mid-March 2023, it became known that Microsoft technical support specialists sometimes use pirated tools to activate legally purchased corporation products.

Wesley Pyburn, a freelance technologist from South Africa, spoke about non-standard practice, according to Bleeping Computer. Depending on how the client received their copy of Windows 10/11, either a digital license or a 25-digit key may be required to activate. Moreover, the digital license is associated with Microsoft hardware and account, so that all parameters are configured automatically after connecting the computer to the Internet and logging into the account.

Activation ensures that your copy of Windows is genuine and not used on more devices than is permitted by the corporation's Software License Agreement, says Microsoft.

According to Pyburn, he legally purchased a genuine copy of Windows 10 Pro for $200, but could not activate the operating system using the attached key. Then the user turned to the Microsoft technical support service, but at first they could not help there either. Then one of the corporation's specialists remotely connected to Pyburn's computer and launched a "crack" - a special utility for bypassing Windows activation tools.

I cannot believe that Microsoft's response to a faulty activation module is to hack Windows through official support channels. Indeed, it's easier to hack an operating system than to pay for it, "Pyburn said.

It is noted that this is not the first time Microsoft support staff have practiced such methods. Microsoft said it was investigating the incident and would take appropriate action to "ensure proper procedures are followed regarding customer support for the corporation's products and services."^[1]

2022

Infection through a fake update

Fake Windows updates infect users through. files JavaScript This became known on October 14, 2022. Magniber is aimed at building Windows 10 and. Windows 11 More. here

Microsoft explained the ban on downloading Windows in Russia with a "government order"

The ban on downloading Windows 10 and 11 operating systems in Russia is associated with a "government order." This is reported in the Microsoft technical support service.

I explained that I am in Russia, I cannot download a single program. An employee of the support service wrote that according to a government order, it is impossible to download or install any files from the territory of Russia and Belarus, "said Mark Protasevich, editor of Kommersant FM.

According to him, he corresponded with the English-language support service. Initially, the operator associated difficulties with an outdated version of the OS on the computer, Protasevich specified.

Microsoft does not specify what government order is in question, and nothing is said about this in the packages of US sanctions against Russia. Mobile Research Group analyst Eldar Murtazin believes that the inability to download a new Windows or download software from the site is a technical error, if only because the problem is fixed using a VPN. At the same time, Microsoft will continue to support previously sold products, the expert is sure.

This does not mean that they do not support their products, the same Windows, Office. All updates remain available, there are no sanctions against ordinary people, users of the same Windows, "Murtazin added.

Other experts interviewed by Kommersant FM believe that in the future Microsoft will not only not solve the problems of Microsoft users, but will also completely disconnect them from service and constant system updates.

By 16:00 Moscow time on June 22, 2022, ISO images of Windows 10 and 11 still cannot be downloaded from the Microsoft website in Russia - the error "404 - File or Directory not found" occurs. The TAdviser journalist was convinced of this.^[2]

Download ban for Russian users

Microsoft has banned Russian users from downloading Windows 10 and 11. This became known on June 19, 2022.

All attempts by Russians to install Windows 11 and Windows 10 from the official Microsoft website end with the error "404 - File or Directory not found." With the VPN connection, the download occurs.

As of June 2022, Microsoft did not comment on what was happening^[3].

Fake updates infect systems with Magniber ransomware

On May 1, 2022, it became known that attackers were sending fake updates for Windows 10 to infect users' computers with Magniber ransomware.

Ransomware ON Magniber attacks not enterprises, but students and ordinary users.

According to BleepingComputer, the malicious campaign began on April 8, 2022, and its victims were users around the world.

Fake cumulative updates or security updates are distributed under different names, but most often as Win10.0_System_Upgrade_Software.msi and Security_Upgrade_Software_Win10.0.msi. In addition, fakes are sent under the names:

• System.Upgrade.Win10.0-KB47287134.msi
• System.Upgrade.Win10.0-KB82260712.msi
• System.Upgrade.Win10.0-KB18062410.msi
• System.Upgrade.Win10.0-KB66846525.msi

Malicious updates are distributed through pirated sites that offer activation keys for software. How potential victims are lured to malicious pages is unknown.

After installation on the attacked system, Magniber deletes shadow copies of the and volumes. In the ciphers files process enciphering , the ransomware adds an extension to them in the form of an arbitrary set of eight letters, for example,.gtearevf.

Next, you create a README.html file with a ransom note. Each folder contains instructions on how to access a site on the Tor network where you can pay a ransom. The My Decryptor website allows victims to decrypt one file for free, contact "technical support," as well as find out the amount of the ransom and the bitcoin address to which it needs to be transferred. Most often, the ransom amount is about $2.5 thousand.

As of May 1, 2022, there are no ways to restore files encrypted by him without paying a ransom^[4].

Windows 10 is 21H2 compatible with Secret Net Studio 8.8 and 8.6

Secret Net Studio 8.8 and 8.6 Security Code products have confirmed compatibility with Windows 11, Windows 10 21H2 and Win Server 2022. The company "Security Code" announced this on February 7, 2022. Read more here.

2021

Update for Windows 10 versions 2004 and 20H2 broke backup

On March 9, 2021, it became known that the latest cumulative update Microsoft for operating system Windows 10 versions of 2004 and 20H2 could cause a number of problems for its users, writes the profile resource Windows Latest.

According to the source, users rarely experience difficulties in working backup with the Archiving Service file tool built into Microsoft OS.

Other owners of devices running Windows 10 with cumulative updates face the inoperability of webcams and application failures. In addition, it may be difficult to install this update directly.

Problems with the Windows 10 Backup Service, as noted by Windows Latest, are experienced by a relatively small number of users who have installed the cumulative KB4601319 update dated February 9, 2021 and resort to the built-in function "File files History" or simply "File History"). This tool allows you to automatically save the contents of pre-selected folders to a local or network drive at a specified frequency (from 10 minutes to 24 hours). The main purpose of the tool is to provide a quick way to restore deleted or modified files.

As noted by Windows Latest, in general, the problem is that File History does not see files previously saved during backup, and after trying to force synchronization using the "Backup Now" button, it displays a message about the inability to copy data with an explanation: "Failed to initiate user data backup failed with error code 80070005. According to the Microsoft User Support Portal, an error with this code occurs when the process has insufficient system privileges to perform the required operation.

One of the users claims that he tried to completely reset the program settings: he deleted the configuration files and changed the target disk to another remote storage, but this did not help.

Complaints of this nature can be found in the Windows 10 Feedback Hub and the Microsoft User Community Forum. Users associate the incorrect operation of the backup function with the installation of the February patch, since removing it manually, as a rule, solves the problem.

At the time of publication of this material, Microsoft did not recognize, but did not deny the presence of a problem with backing up files.

After installing the KB4601319 patch, some Windows 10 users also complain about the failure of Razer Stargazer and Intel Realsense webcams with support for biometric identification through the Windows Hello mechanism.

In the second half of February 2021, Microsoft acknowledged the problem. A Microsoft specialist, in response to a complaint from one of the users in the Feedback Center, said that the company is aware of the problem and is working to fix it. As a temporary measure, the engineer suggested removing the KB4601319 update from the system.

The KB4601319 patch for Windows 10 versions 2004 and 20H2 of February 9, 2021 includes several important fixes. So, with the release of the update, the zero day error (CVE-2021-1732) was closed - a vulnerability in the system component did Win32k allow expanding privileges.

In addition, a problem has been fixed that could cause file system corruption on some devices and fail to start them after running the chkdsk/f media check command.

Security updates received Windows App Platform and Frameworks, Windows authentication management systems, Windows cryptographic subsystems, Windows virtualization systems, Windows Core Networking and Windows Hybrid Cloud Networking and other components^[5]

Windows 10 version 21H1 with multi-camera support for Windows Hello

Microsoft on February 18, 2021 presented the next update of Windows 10 components version 21H1.

Windows 10 in version 21H1 will include a limited set of components to improve security, remote access and quality. The components within this update focus on key aspects of the work.

Added components include support for multiple cameras for Windows Hello and improved performance with security in mind.

• With support for multiple cameras for Windows Hello, users will be able to prioritize the external camera when using displays with built-in cameras.
• Improve Application Guard performance in Windows Defender, including optimizing opening times for documents.
• Improves the performance of the Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) Group Policy Service (GPSVC) upgrade to support remote scripts.

Customers who use Windows 10 version 2004 or 20H2 and want to upgrade to this release will be able to appreciate the speed of installation, as this update is installed in the same way as monthly updates. For private and commercial users migrating from the pre-May 2020 Update version of Windows 10 (version 2004), the upgrade process to the latest release will be the same as before, and will run similarly to previous updates to Windows 10 components using the same tools and processes. Since this release of Windows 10 is aimed at the first half of 2021, all releases of Windows 10 version 21H1 will receive 18 months of service.

Uninstalling Adobe Flash Player

Microsoft has begun a phased rollout of the update for the Windows 10 operating system, which permanently removes Adobe Flash Player. This became known on February 17, 2021.

Patch KB4577586 is part of a set of cumulative updates released in early February 2021, and is intended for Windows 10 versions 20H2, 2004 and earlier. The only task that the patch solves is to remove components for playing animation using Flash technology from the current Microsoft OS, which is more unsupported by the developer - Adobe.

Windows Latest notes that the update KB4577586 although declared as optional, is nevertheless installed in a "voluntary-forced manner" - to automatically apply this patch, it is allegedly enough to click the "Check for updates" button in the "Windows Update Center," the system does not ask additional questions.

Installing the update, according to the publication, takes no more than five minutes and requires a subsequent reboot. Removal of the patch is KB4577586 not provided, follows from the official documentation. However, users and administrators, if necessary, will be able to "roll back" the system to the state before installing this patch, if there is an appropriate recovery point.

It is important to note that the update is aimed at "cleaning" Adobe Flash Player components that were previously deployed with Windows. That is, for the safety of instances of the Flash player installed manually from third-party sources, users, apparently, should not be afraid. Adobe itself took care of the futility of such installations in advance. The company planted a "watch bomb" in the source code of the program, due to which it was supposed to become inoperable by the end of 2020^[6].

2020

New Start menu in the updated version of Windows 10

In October 2020, the next update for Windows 10 was released. One of the innovations of Windows 10 October 2020 Update concerns the Start menu, which has been significantly redesigned to quickly find and access applications.

The icons of the Calculator, Mail, Calendar and other applications have been redrawn in a new style, and they are now located on a smooth translucent background. In addition, users have been given more options to customize taskbars to suit their preferences.

The second significant change in Microsoft is the principle of the Alt-Tab key combination. Tabs opened in Microsoft Edge will be displayed as separate thumbnails along with the rest of the application windows. However, Microsoft allows Windows 10 users to revert to the classic Alt-Tab interface.

Microsoft has made significant changes to the OEM driver validation model and third-party hardware vendors. In the event that Windows fails to verify the driver provider, the user is notified of this, and the installation process is interrupted. This function is aimed at improving the security of the software platform and Microsoft is unlikely to abandon it. According to the available data, this problem may occur when trying to install old drivers or their versions that were incorrectly signed by the provider.

Also, the updated operating system has redesigned biometric login algorithms through the Windows Hello system, which recognizes the user by face or fingerprint.

Innovations in the Microsoft Edge browser. The new Collections tool will allow you to save and share content from the Internet and can be useful when shopping, conducting school research, preparing for travel, etc.

Automatic device updates will take place gradually, similar to the May update, when it was not installed on all devices at once. If you want to install the update faster, users will be able to do this manually by checking for a new version in the settings.^[7]

Microsoft started installing Office apps on Windows 10 without user permission

In mid-October 2020, it became known that Microsoft it was testing the automatic installation of its main Office applications as Progressive Web Apps (PWA) in. browser Edge At the same time, the program does not request permission from users and simultaneously places shortcuts to new applications in the Start menu.

Windows Latest journalists were the first to report that Microsoft installed PWA versions of Excel, Outlook, Word and PowerPoint in a new browser without user permission. Apparently, Microsoft is selectively testing new features among a number of Windows 10 Insider clients that use a stable version of the Edge browser, but similar cases have been recorded in ordinary users. You can remove PWA from the Programs and Features settings page in Microsoft Edge or from the Windows 10 Control Panel.

Previously, Microsoft had already invited users to install Outlook as PWA and Office applications, but then this option was completely under the control of the Windows 10 user. So far, Microsoft has not commented on its new attempts to attract user attention without asking for permission. You can prevent spam from appearing in "Launch" and the list of programs by either refusing to use Edge or disabling its automatic update.

This is not the first time Microsoft has used Windows 10 as a platform to advertise its products. Back in October 2015, immediately after the release of the new OS, Microsoft integrated advertising into one of the components of its shell. The disabled ad appeared in the Start menu as a link to applications that users were advised to purchase from the Windows Store. Later, Microsoft 365 offers were discovered in the Explorer browser, and at the end of December 2019, Microsoft began introducing non-disconnectable ads in Windows 10.^[8]

Windows 10 update enforces Chromium-based Edge

Microsoft has been promoting its on the browser Edge base Chromium since June 2020, but the latest update from the company unexpectedly installed it on even more systems. This became known on September 16, 2020.

The KB4576754 update forcibly installs the updated Edge on Windows 10,2004,,1909,,1903 and 1809 and removes the old Edge based on EdgeHTML. Data from the old version of the browser, including passwords and saved tabs, is automatically transferred to the updated one.

The latest Edge is also automatically pinned to the taskbar, and an icon appears on the desktop. When you try to use the old version of the browser, users will be directed to the updated version.

It is noteworthy that another update (KB4576753) adds Edge to the Windows 10 1803 version as well. It provides the same "quality improvements" as updating the KB4576754. None of these updates are intended for devices managed by Windows Update for Business (WUfB).

Many users reacted to the forced installation of the browser without much enthusiasm. However, there are several workarounds that will help delay the installation of the Edge. For example, users can pause updates or try to delete the browser via the command line.

There are also several other ways to prevent the Chromium-based Edge from being installed. However, Microsoft deliberately made it more difficult to remove, "since Windows supports applications relying on the web platform, and the default web browser is an important component of the operating system and cannot be removed." The company insists that Edge is necessary for compatibility, performance^[9].

Dramatic Interface Changes

In August 2020, it became known about a radically updated user interface in Windows 10. Developers with access to beta versions of the operating system spoke about the innovations.

In the build of Windows 10 under the number 20197, references were found to WinUIOnDesktop, WinUIDesktopActionCenter, WinUIDesktopStartMenu. We are talking about an interface called WinUI, which provides windows with rounded corners, new buttons, more Fluent Design design elements and several new user interface components.

The Start menu, Notification Center and other elements of the Windows 10 user interface are written in XAML and use Windows.UI.XAML. The links discovered by enthusiasts could theoretically indicate what Microsoft intends to use for the mentioned elements of the WinUI interface, and not Windows.UI.XAML.

It is expected that the WinUI concept will be used not only in Windows 10, but also in its new version of Windows 10X for unusual gadgets, including devices with two screens. The interface will be used in Win32 applications, both existing and new, as well as in Universal Windows Platform (UWP) applications.

According to the developers, the general goal of visual innovations is to make common controls available to the entire Windows platform and achieve greater consistency in the operating system as a whole, from the Start menu and the Action Center user interface to various applications already used with WinUI.

Win32 applications can be run on Windows 10X through containers. Since most Windows applications are built on this platform, it is not surprising that the company encourages developers to use new technologies for even wider distribution of the OS. The company notes on its website that "WinUI offers a state-of-the-art UI infrastructure for all Windows applications in Win32 and UWP." The goal of WinUI is to "gradually migrate" applications created on outdated platforms to modern ones.^[10]

In build version 19041.423, the Internet driver search function is disabled in Device Manager

On August 10, 2020, it became known that the corporation Microsoft deprived users OS Windows of 10 of the ability to quickly find drivers in. Internet Another update for the system makes radical changes to the operation of the "Device manager," which will make it difficult for users to install equipment.

According to the Windows Latest portal, after installing an update that updates the system to build version 19041.423, the "Device Manager," which does not need to be confused with the "Task Manager," disappears the function of finding new and updating existing drivers in automatic mode over the Internet. A fresh patch completely blocks the "Dispatcher" from Internet access.

At the same time, the "Device Manager" itself remains in the system, and it retains the entire set of functions, except for finding drivers on the Web. This application first appeared on Windows in late August 1995 - it was added to Windows 95.

After upgrading Windows 10 to build 19041.423, Device Manager will be able to install drivers only if there is a folder or archive with the required files in the computer's memory or removable media attached to it.

According to the Windows Latest portal, Microsoft deliberately cut the list of Device Manager features in order to draw users' attention to an application called Settings. It first appeared in Windows 8 in 2012 - on earlier Microsoft systems it was replaced by Control Panel, Device Manager and other classic applications.

Finding and updating drivers is available in the "Updates and Security" menu. The option is located under "Windows Update" and is called "Optional updates." The list displays drivers, available updates, and installations.

It is noteworthy that the update that updates Windows 10 to build 19041.423 is not included in the list of mandatory installations. The user can independently refuse to deploy it on his computer.

However, there is a possibility that in the future Microsoft will disable the search for drivers on the Internet through the "Device Manager" to all users by integrating the patch into the annual cumulative update without the possibility of removing it.^[11]

Microsoft unveils LGBT design for Windows 10

At the end of June 2020, Microsoft introduced a new Phantom Pink Pride Edition theme for Windows 10, designed to support the LGBT community. This user interface design uses pink, blue, mauve and white. The Start menu with Live Tiles and window items are translucent.

The new topic was presented by the Microsoft 365 project team on the official Facebook page. The same post indicated that the company was inspired to create the topic by the discussion of the inclusivity and equality of the LGBT movement.

Phantom Pink Pride Edition is not Microsoft's first project to support people with non-traditional sexual orientation. Previously,   the corresponding themes were released for Microsoft Office, stickers for the Microsoft Mixer video service. In addition, the company has released Xbox game controllers with colors from the LGBT community.

In addition, there is a called GLEAM association of gays, lesbians, bisexuals and transsexuals working for Microsoft. GLEAM members ensured that Microsoft offered insurance and other types of benefits to co-living same-sex partners.

Despite the fact that Microsoft has repeatedly recognized one of the leading companies USA "in terms of respect for human rights within the corporation," some gay employees are confident that the attitude towards them is biased. So, Jamie Duran, a British homosexual, programmer who worked in one of the design bureaus owned by Microsoft, accused the corporation's management of homophobia. He claimed he approached the HR department to protect him from mocking jokes, memos and electronic messages from homophobic colleagues. However, they dismissed him there, explaining that he was "alone with such a problem" and advised to remain silent so as not to create an "unpleasant atmosphere" in the team.^[12]

Large-scale update of Windows 10: Linux kernel, etc.

At the end of May 2020, a new update for Windows 10 was released. One of the innovations in the framework of Windows 10 May 2020 Update (version 2004) was the use of  the second generation Linux subsystem, which includes a fully functional Linux kernel. Support for ELF64 files was also added, and the performance of the file system for working with Linux systems directly inside Windows was improved.

Cortana's voice assistant has undergone a redesign: it is now not attached to the taskbar, but has learned how to create calendar events, send emails and find emails from selected users.

Also appeared the function of data recovery "from the cloud" Cloud Recovery. Traditional recovery remained as an option. In addition, Microsoft notes the following innovations in Windows 10:

• The emoji selector has received many new characters.
• Added the ability to independently specify the names of virtual desktops.
• There is a new cloud download feature designed to reset PC data.
• The Task Manager application displays the temperature of the graphics chip and the type of drives installed on the computer.
• An asterisk is displayed in the title bar of the Notepad application if there are unsaved changes in the file. New keyboard shortcuts have become available. When text is selected, the search/replace function will automatically place it in the text field.
• The Calculator application can be configured to display on top of all windows.
• It became possible to adjust the size and color of the cursor when entering text.
• Dictation has become available in several languages, including French, German, Italian and Spanish.

Windows 10 May 2020 Update (version 2004) is the largest operating system update in 2020. By May 28, 2020, it is available for download to all Windows 10 users.^[13]

In Windows 10, you can run Linux applications with a graphical interface

On May 19, 2020, Microsoft announced the addition of support for running Linux applications with a graphical interface to Windows 10. Read more here.

Microsoft has integrated Windows Explorer with Linux

On April 8, 2020, Microsoft introduced an update for Windows 10, in which, among other things, it implemented the integration of Explorer with Linux operating systems. An innovation that provides access to Linux files in a Windows environment is seen in the build of Windows 10 Fast Ring 9603, which is available within. Insider Preview programs.

The new function is implemented thanks to the Windows Subsystem for Linux) subsystem, designed to run Linux programs in Windows 10. Microsoft is gradually improving this subsystem by integrating the Bash shell, native OpenSSH and even downloading Ubuntu, SUSE Linux and Fedora from the Windows Store. The American company also launched a new Windows Terminal command line tool.

As Microsoft representatives explained in the company's blog, users were able to access Linux files in Windows 10 1903, but the addition in build 19603 makes it easier for users to scan content (through the left navigation bar in Explorer). By selecting the Linux icon, you can display all your Linux distributions, and when you select these options, users will directly move to the Linux root file system for the specific distribution.^[14]

In addition, a number of other additional features have appeared in the update. So, in the settings of Windows 10, an option has become available regarding the optimization of storage use. The system can tell the user which unused files and applications can be deleted to free up disk space. In fact, the new function is an improved Disk Cleanup program - it shows how much space certain categories of software or files take up, and also allows you to quickly delete them. In the test build of Windows 10 Insider 19603, you can see the new option "Recommendations for cleaning up disk space."

Microsoft will block Windows 10 updates for devices with problematic drivers

On January 10, 2020, it became known that Microsoft partners will be able to request blocking updates for devices with inappropriate drivers.

As reported, the incompatibility of drivers downloaded by Windows Update for peripheral devices (mouse, printer, keyboard, etc.) with updated versions of the operating system has already become familiar. Yet the unexpected "blue screens of death" may soon come to an end.

Automatically downloaded incompatible drivers every now and then cause a blue screen of death on some computers. For example, in 2018, Intel accidentally distributed audio drivers through Windows Update for Windows 10 devices that turned out to be incompatible with the OS. In 2019, Windows 10 updates were blocked several times due to compatibility issues with audio drivers.

Now, according to internal Microsoft documents, the company has changed its approach to the issue of driver incompatibility. From now on, Microsoft partners such as Intel, HP, Dell and Lenovo will be able to request blocking of functional updates for Windows 10 on devices with inappropriate drivers. If a Microsoft partner requests a lock, Windows Update will not offer functional updates to users of devices with problematic drivers.

The lockdown will be temporary and problematic devices will be able to get them once a fix is released, according to internal company documents. This measure will avoid the appearance of a "blue screen of death" and data loss .

Another change concerns the installation of drivers on "Patch Tuesday." Microsoft is working to block driver installation through Windows Update the day before and the day after monthly security updates are released . In addition, driver installation will be blocked two days before and for two days after the release of functional updates for Windows 10.^[15]

2019

Implementing DNS-over-HTTPS

In November 2019, Microsoft announced the implementation of the DNS over HTTPS (DoH) encryption protocol in the Windows 10 operating system. Read more here.

Calls via Android smartphone

September 10, 2019 it became known about the appearance in Windows 10 of a function that will allow you to make calls from your computer through - Androidsmartphones when they are away from the user.

The first to draw attention to this technology was a Twitter user under the nickname Ajith. He tested the new product and said that it was working.

All participants in the Insider Preview beta testing program can check the function, it is already working in the test build of Windows 10 v1.19082.1006.0.

The innovation is that a Windows 10 user will be able to make calls from a smartphone and directly control them. For this action, a special switch has appeared, which is located in the settings. After activating it, the Calls item will appear, which will be in the main menu on the left. When you click on it, the dialing panel is displayed, as well as the field for finding personal contacts.

Phone numbers and photos of contacts will be automatically synchronized between Android and Windows devices. In general, Calls' capabilities are standard for a phone application: users will be able to turn off the microphone, drop the call and switch the call to a smartphone.

By September 10, 2019, Windows 10 has the ability to call from smartphones from Samsung and OnePlus. It is assumed that by the time of the final release, the list of compatible devices will be extensive.

This feature will be included in the major Windows 10 20H1 update, which will be released in spring 2020. It will also bring a number of other innovations. Among them is a separate application for Cortana. The voice assistant window can be separated from the taskbar, moved around the screen and generally worked like a regular universal application. Resizing, dragging, and the like are supported.^[16]

The function of reinstalling the OS from the cloud appears

In early September 2019, it became known that Windows 10 had the ability to reinstall the operating system from the cloud. It is available in Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 18970.

To reinstall Windows 10 from the cloud, you need to go to the settings. Next, "Update and Security" - "Recovery." After reinstalling from the cloud, all custom applications and settings will be removed. However, the user will have the opportunity to save personal files.

You will need to download at least 2.86 GB of installation files from the cloud. This requires an uninterrupted connection to the network. In this case, the same assembly of the operating system that worked on the computer at the time of reset will be installed.

Microsoft warns that at first the function will not work if some optional add-ons are installed on the system - the EMS and SAC toolkit, IrDA infrared interface, Print Management Console, Wireless Display and several others.

Users of any desktop and laptop can use the new function, but by the beginning of September 2019 it is available only in Insider Preview - this is a Windows pre-assessment program, the participants of which earlier than others get access to updates and report detected bugs. Wide access to the new option will be opened at a later time.

According to Microsoft, the function of reinstalling the OS from the cloud was added at the request of users who would prefer to speed up the process by simply downloading Windows.

With the new function, you can reinstall the operating system without a bootable flash drive. This is extremely convenient when there is no boot disk at hand and there is no time to re-write it.^[17]

It is worth noting that the ability to reinstall the macOS operating system in the cloud appeared a few years earlier before Windows.

Integration with Samsung Galaxy Note10

On August 8, 2019, the companies Microsoft Samsung and announced the development of a long-term strategic partnership in the field of innovation. Starting Samsung Galaxy Note10 with performance applications and services, Microsoft will are integrated be included in the products of the line, including the function of automatic synchronization with Link PERSONAL COMPUTER to,,,, Windows OneDrive as well as Outlook, and. Word Excel PowerPoint More. here

Windows 10 WSL2 allows you to configure global settings

On August 5, 2019, it became known that Microsoft released a feature for the WSL2 subsystem (Windows for Linux version 2), which allows you to configure global parameters for all installed distributions on the Windows 10 system . Read more here.

Missing registry backups in Windows 10 is not an error

On July 2, 2019, it became known that Microsoft published technical documentation according to which the lack of registry backups in Windows 10 is not an error, but a planned function.

The fact that Windows 10 no longer creates registry backups was reported back in November 2018. Then many took it as a bug in the October 2018 Update, however, as Microsoft explains, everything works as planned. Starting with Windows 10 April 2018 Update (1803), the OS no longer automatically creates or saves registry backups in the RegBack folder.

If you open the\Windows\System32\config\RegBack folder through Windows Search, you will see each registry branch, but the file size will be 0 KB. This change is planned and is intended to reduce the amount of disk space consumed by Windows. To restore a system with a damaged registry branch, Microsoft recommends using a system recovery point, explains Microsoft.

Users who want to return the function of automatically saving registry backups can configure the registry entry and restart the system^[18].

Windows 10 will have a full Linux kernel built in

On May 7, 2019, it became known that the company Microsoft introduced an updated subsystem 2 WSL designed to run executable in files Linux. Windows A key feature of the WSL 2 update is the built-in full-fledged kernel Microsoft Linux. More. here

Working on the version of Windows 10 Lite

On February 27, 2019, it became known that Microsoft is working on the Windows Lite operating system for cheap computers and laptops. Its first unofficial screenshot has already been published on the Web.

Microsoft has only one goal - Windows Lite is being created to capture the market for affordable mobile PCs and compact desktops (nettops), including for the educational segment of the market. Chrome OS is the leader in this area in February 2019, in the IV quarter of 2017, 59.8% of all laptops and nettops for students and teachers in the United States operated on the basis of this platform. At the same time, on the world stage, taking into account all types of PCs in all segments, the share of Chrome OS does not exceed 1.25%.

Most of the functions that fill full-fledged Windows 10 can be removed from Windows Lite, but the basic features, including the file manager ("Explorer") and the settings menu ("Control Panel"), must remain.

According to the information, Microsoft will still leave Windows Lite users without the ability to install programs from any media, including those downloaded from the Internet. Instead, they will be forced to use only the so-called "universal" applications (UWP, Universal Windows Platform) presented in the Microsoft Store directory. Support for PWA (Progressive Web Apps) web applications will also be added.

Integration into Windows Lite support for Win32 applications is still possible, but it will probably not be available in initial serial assemblies of the system.

Beta testers can not access test assemblies until early summer 2019.

But still, the feasibility of releasing Windows Lite remains open for two reasons: limiting capabilities and having very affordable solutions running full-fledged Windows 10 on the market. One of the latest examples is the 14-inch Lenovo 14w Enterprise laptop based on dual-core, processor AMD with Full HD resolution and Windows 10 Pro. Such a copy costs from $300 (19.7 thousand rubles).

On February 14, 2019, it became known about two modifications of Windows Lite for devices conditionally divided into Pegasus and Centaurus categories. Pegasus is a mobile device with two separate or one foldable display, and by Centaurus Microsoft means all kinds of laptop modifications - classic, transformers and with a removable keyboard. It is not yet known whether we are talking about representatives of the Microsoft Surface family, especially since rumors about the first Windows smartphone with the working name Surface Phone appear with enviable regularity.

Microsoft has integrated support for ARM processors into Windows 10, and this feature can migrate to its lightweight version, which will largely expand the list of supported devices.

Third-party manufacturers can also work on Windows Lite devices.

The emergence of the second Microsoft OS can divide the entire computer market into two parts - for beginner and undemanding users and for advanced "users" who do not want to put up with the restrictions of Windows Lite. Microsoft will offer them Windows 10, which in 2019 may change a lot.

Innovations in Windows 10 will primarily affect its functions - in particular, they will add a sandbox to safely run dubious software, and an updated Edge browser based on the Chromium engine. Along the way, Microsoft plans to completely abandon the "live" tiles in the Start menu^[19].

2018

Office for Windows 10 Announcement

On December 20, 2018, it became known that the corporation Microsoft announced the Office for web application, Windows 10 which makes it easier to work with all documents created in programs from the MS Office package and online Office services. It is a kind of universal hub that allows you to quickly find documents in the local workplace or in and, clouds OneDrive Sharepoint work with them and share them with employees without having to run several services at the same time and switch between them. More. here

Manual Windows 10 October 2018 Update

On December 18, 2018, it became known that Microsoft announced the availability of Windows 10 October 2018 Update for "advanced users."

Due to the abundance of all kinds of errors in the work of Microsoft, it was necessary to suspend the deployment of the update and even re-release the corrected version. Microsoft recommended that users do not rush to install it and wait until the system itself offers to update.

On December 17, an updated status appeared on the Windows 10 and Windows Server 2019 update history page on the Microsoft website: "Windows 10, version 1809, is now fully available to advanced users who manually enabled the search for updates in Windows Update." However, Windows 10 October 2018 Update is still not offered automatically.

Although the company announced the availability of Windows 10 (version 1809) for "advanced users," not everyone will be able to install the update anyway. In particular, users whose systems have the following problems will not be able to install it:

Incompatible with Intel Graphics Drivers 24.20.100.6344 and 24.20.100.6345;

Unstable connection when using F5 VPN, when the VPN client is in a split tunnel configuration;

Incompatibility with Trend Micro OfficeScan and Worry-Free Business Security;

Problems with the lock screen on computers with Radeon HD2000 and HD4000 graphics cards.

Users who decide to manually install the update are advised to back up important^[20] files^[21] before^[22] update].

Red Hat Enterprise Linux became available in Windows 10 as a WLinux Enterprise distribution

In December 2018, the WLinux Enterprise distribution went on sale, which is a version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux optimized for Windows 10. WLinux Enterprise is available from the Microsoft Store and is offered at a discount price of $5. After the end of the promotion, the cost will be $100. Read more here.

Microsoft stopped inserting major printer drivers

In October 2018, Microsoft announced that it had stopped including basic drivers for printers in Windows 10. The company optimizes space in the operating system by preparing a "lightweight" version for corporate clients.

Starting with Windows 10 version 1809, the built-in printer and scanner drivers were migrated to Windows Update. Previous versions of Windows 10 included basic printer drivers, which allowed printing even when full-featured drivers were not installed. To reduce the size of Windows and provide users with more free disk space, these drivers no longer ship with the operating system and will be available for download in Windows Update, the Microsoft website says.

Thus, downloading printer drivers on Windows 10 requires Internet access. If it is provided, then the download and installation of the program necessary for the operation of the printing equipment is automatic.

If a Windows 10 user installs a new printer when Windows Update is not available, the driver will not be automatically installed. In this case, Windows will install Mopria-compatible printers without requiring an external driver.

Mopria  is a service for printing from smartphones and tablets running Android. In fact, this is a kind of Android analogue of Apple AirPrint.

In October 2018, Microsoft announced that it was looking for solutions to reduce the size of the enterprise version of Windows 10. Then the software giant noted that it is expensive and time-consuming for companies to download all files to update the operating system. By the time of this statement, Microsoft was offering two main versions of the "ten" - with x64 and x86 architectures. Both options are larger than 4 GB.^[23]

Big update: Android screen mirroring, etc.

On October 2, 2018, another major update for Windows 10 was released. Operating system received many new features, including the Your Phone application, which allows you to run any programs on your computer from Android-.smartphones

Thus, you can use mobile applications on the big screen - for example, communicate in instant messengers or social networks. 

The new feature allows you to manage notifications, transfer photos from your phone to your computer, or insert them into documents without first downloading them to your device.

"Timeline" (Timeline - allows PC owners to quickly find files and other information that they worked on today, a week or a few weeks ago) for Android smartphones also allows you to synchronize work between devices. This feature requires Microsoft Launcher to be installed.

In addition to Android, partial mirroring from the iPhone has been established - by the beginning of October 2018, it is possible to display web pages from Apple phones to a computer running Windows 10.

Microsoft notes that the Windows 10 October 2018 Update will allow users to "quietly switch from one device to another and bridge the gap between iOS and Android devices and PCs."

Among the innovations that appeared in Windows 10 in October 2018, it is worth noting the cloud clipboard. You can copy content from computer to computer via the Internet.

In addition, the dark theme of "Explorer," a new tool for taking screenshots and a lot of visual changes appeared.

After installing the October 2018 Update, new emoji and support for SwiftKey typing appear, and memory state control is strengthened. The Edge browser has also been refined.^[24]

Drone control

On May 7, 2018, Microsoft announced a joint development tool (SDK) with DJI, thanks to which the Windows 10 operating system can be used to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The announced development tools kit will help ensure full control of flight control and real-time data transfer to devices with Windows 10, the number of which by the beginning of May 2018 is almost 700 million worldwide. It is assumed that the capabilities of drones will be expanded, and the devices will become more universal thanks to integration with Windows 10.

As part of a commercial collaboration, DJI and Microsoft will develop solutions based on Azure IoT Edge and Microsoft services based on artificial intelligence, expanding opportunities in areas such as agriculture, construction, public safety, etc., the company said.

Microsoft's AI services will be used by DJI to analyze and interpret aerial imagery and video for commercial customers.

DJI, which by the time it announced its partnership with Microsoft is the world's largest drone manufacturer, also chose Azure as a priority cloud infrastructure to further develop solutions for commercial UAVs and Solutions SaaS.

At the Build 2018 conference, DJI and Microsoft showed one of the first results of the collaboration. The Mavic drone, connected to the new SDK and Azure cloud, was used to scan and detect pipe damage in the factory. Analysis and tracking was carried out on a computer running Windows 10 in a UWP application.^[25]

Working with DJI is part of Microsoft's strategy to grow its Internet of Things market business, in which the US software giant is set to invest $5 billion until 2022.

Windows 10 April 2018 Update announcement

Microsoft Corporation on April 27, 2018 introduced the Windows 10 April 2018 Update, which will be available from April 30. It contains a whole range of functions that will give users the opportunity to save time.

The main changes/innovations implemented in Windows 10 April 2018 Update:

• Timeline - helps you easily find important information on any device
  • The Timeline function in Windows 10 on a PC will help you "move" to the past for up to 30 days and find everything you need. The function will also help you check the actions that were taken under your Microsoft account.

• Nearby Sharing - allows you to instantly share videos, photos, documents and websites with people and devices nearby via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
• Windows Ink - Tap to Ink and Ink Acceleration are added to use the digital pen. Now drawing and writing by hand is more convenient.
• Focus Assist - helps to concentrate
  • Focus Assist helps maintain concentration. You should turn it on when you need to do something without being distracted by social networks and notifications. You can also program automatic activation of this feature at certain times during the day when you want to concentrate. At the end of the work, the user will receive all notifications, emails and updates that he missed while he was busy. If you are waiting for specific letters or calls, you can add the right people to the list of exceptions.

• Updated BrowserMicrosoft Edge - will help users focus online.
  • You can now click on the audio icon to turn the audio off or on again on the tab. Books, PDFs and Reading View pages can be switched to full-screen mode so that nothing is distracted while reading. It has become easier to make purchases, since the email address, payment and other information can be saved using the auto-fill function of online payment forms. In addition, a function has been added to remove excess text from the web page for printing. And finally, people who have difficulty reading can use the Grammar Tools button to get help. Grammar Tools can break words on a page into syllables, as well as highlight different parts of speech such as nouns, verbs and adjectives.

• Voice for natural input - can completely change how people interact with their devices
  • Voice input allows you to simply say what needs to be done without printing anything. The Dictation feature has appeared in the April 2018 Update. Now taking a note or making a document using only a voice has become easier than ever. By placing the cursor in a text box in the Windows 10 program or application, just click Win + H and start talking. An improved Dictation feature in Windows 10 will help you quickly and accurately capture thoughts.

• 3D in Windows 10 - now you can add 3D elements and animations to photos, videos, and even PowerPoint presentations.
• HDR Video - Even more devices can now play HDR video with the Windows HD color app.
• Optimized "Game Panel" - allows you to quickly jump to recordings, turn on the microphone and camera, select a theme and edit Mixer broadcast titles.

With the April 2018 Update and Cortana on Windows 10 PCs, you can control your smart home system directly from your computer using just your voice. In addition, the update has many other innovations, including simplified IT management features for enterprise users, creative photo and Windows Mixed Reality, ways to ensure online security, touch keyboard improvements for many languages, intelligence in Office, optimized Microsoft Store localization.

In the new build of Windows 10, the default browser is Edge

Microsoft is trying its best to promote its Edge browser and seems to be gradually crossing all boundaries. In the latest build of Windows 10 (17623) for Windows Insider members who have chosen the Skip Ahead option, the built-in mail client opens all links to Edge, even if the user has selected a different browser by default^[26].

As reported^[27] in the company's blog, this step was taken in the interests of users. "For Windows Insider members who have chosen the Skip Ahead option, we are testing the ability to open links in the Windows mail application through Microsoft Edge, providing the best, safest and most reliable Windows 10 experience on all devices," according to the Microsoft blog.

According to the company, "with built-in features such as memos and Cortana, as well as quick access to SharePoint and OneDrive services, Microsoft Edge makes your work more productive, organized and creative, while saving battery power and ensuring security."

Details of the ARM version of Windows 10

In February 2018 Microsoft , she accidentally revealed some details of version operating system Windows 10 for ARM processors. Judging by this data, which was published for a short time, there will be many restrictions in the software platform.

Microsoft announced plans to release Windows 10 for the ARM architecture at the end of 2017, but at that time did not provide any details regarding the product. On February 16, 2018, a document entitled "Limitations of apps and experiences on ARM" appeared on the Windows Dev Center developer portal.

The materials reported that the new version of Windows 10 will be incompatible with many devices and programs. Thus, the platform supports only drivers for ARM64, which makes it incompatible with older devices.

The system does not support x64 applications, although Microsoft plans to add it later. Also, games and applications using OpenGL versions later than 1.1 or requiring OpenGL hardware acceleration will not work.

UWP applications available in the Microsoft Store will also be available in a 32-bit version optimized for the ARM32 architecture. While versions of applications for ARM64 on laptops and tablets with Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets will not be able to launch.

Microsoft also announced the inoperability of applications that change the Windows user interface in a certain way. In particular, this applies to client programs of cloud services, which add the item "send to the cloud" to the context menu.

According to The Verge, data on the features of Windows 10 for ARM chips were removed from the Microsoft portal a couple of days after publication. The release dates of the OS version are not named.^[28]

Maximum Performance Mode

In February 2018, the  maximum performance mode appeared in the Windows 10 operating system, when all resources of a personal computer are focused on one task.

At the time of the announcement of the function called Ultimate Performance, it is only available in the workstation platform version - Windows 10 Pro for Workstations.

This setting can be selected by both hardware manufacturers and end users in the control panel under Power Supply. However, it will not be available for laptops and other devices running on batteries.

After Ultimate Performance is activated, all computer performance is focused on the current resource-intensive task, and the resource costs of background tasks are reduced to a minimum or completely stopped.

True, in this mode, PC power consumption increases significantly, and component devices wear out faster, Microsoft warns.

The new power scheme is based on the current version of the High Performance mode, but has received a number of additional optimizations that are designed to provide even higher system power. This is achieved by eliminating microloads and is directly related to the operation of the hardware. 

After a long time, we have assembled a set of settings that allow the OS to quickly change performance based on user preferences, policies, basic hardware or workloads, Microsoft said in a statement.

By February 16, 2018, the Ultimate Performance feature appeared in the Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 17101 build, which members of the Windows Insider early testing program have access to. The release of a major update, which will add a turbojet to the final version of the operating system, is scheduled for March-April 2018.^[29]

Microsoft banned from imposing installation of applications on Windows

In February 2018, the Finnish Consumer Authority agreed  with cMicrosoft that the company would no longer install applications on users' computers in Finland without their explicit consent.

According to Xinhua, citing the Finnish daily Kauppalehti, the agreement also implies that Microsoft will not change the meaning of characters in program windows.

For example, in Get Windows 10, which prepares to install Windows 10, Microsoft has changed the value of the X button in the upper corner of the screen. The button usually means "close" or "cancel," but Microsoft has changed the value to "confirm" or "start." Thus, if the consumer pressed "X" to close the window, he or she actually agreed to start downloading the software.

 The investigation, which began in 2016 , found that Microsoft's actions were contrary to Finnish consumer protection laws.

Users in Finland have complained of an unauthorized download of the Windows 10 app since mid-2016, Finnish media reported. Local Microsoft management explained that the installation of Get Windows 10 was a "recommended update," and clarifying information was published on the company's blog.

   There was no official comment on the promotion of Windows 10 from the Finnish Consumer Protection Authority at the time, but lawyer Miina Ojajarvi  told media that "blog mention is not enough" and that the company should "provide important information to consumers." Users should be able to opt out of the installation. The management has established that Get Windows 10 is a direct marketing tool that was installed without user consent.^[30]

On trial for disabling Windows 10 auto-update

Microsoft has warned Windows 10 users in Russia that disabling automatic OS updates gives it the right to sue users for violating the law. This is stated on the official website of the technical support of the company^[31].

Microsoft's position became known after a user under the pseudonym kochurovaleksandr contacted^[32] in technical support in order to find out how you can disable the Windows 10 auto-update service on a laptop. As he explained, the device uses a 32 GB hard drive, most of which is already occupied by operating system files, and there is simply no room for updates. In response, one of the official moderators of the community explained that it is categorically impossible to disable auto-update, since because of this, Microsoft can sue a user (legal user). According to him, disabling the automatic update function in the Windows 10 operating system is a direct violation of Art. 1229 and 1235 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and Art. 146 "Violation of copyright and related rights" of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. Forced refusal is qualified by Russian law as illegal use of software and may entail not only administrative, but also criminal liability.

2017

Quick File Sharing Feature

On November 8, 2017, the company Microsoft announced the function of fast file sharing between computers for operating system Windows 10. A tool called Near Share resembles AirDrop from. Apple She created something similar and. Google

With Near Share, you can quickly and easily send photos and documents to a neighboring computer via a Bluetooth wireless connection. When the file is transferred to the recipient's PC, a notification is displayed.

The new feature, which is located in the "Notification Center," can be accessed in, browser Edge the "Photos" program, in "Explorer" and other programs by clicking on the "Share" button. 

In addition to Microsoft, Google also implements a similar AirDrop function. It was used in the File Go file manager, which was in beta testing by early November 2017.

Near Share technology appeared in the test build of Windows 10 (17035), which by November 9, 2017 is available to members of the Windows Insiders program.

The update also includes the following features:

• In the Edge browser, you can quickly mute a specific tab (for example, when autorun a video or annoying ad);

• The Microsoft Store built into Windows 10 has the ability to buy Surface devices and accessories for them;

• Downloading EPUB e-books to your computer (you need to click on the diskette icon in the upper right corner) and opening them;

• The ability to limit the download speed in the background

• a separate tab for sound settings in the System section.

Microsoft is also working to create a universal clipboard between devices that will work through the cloud.^[33]

The AirDrop feature first appeared on the Mas OS X 10.7 Lion operating system in 2011. For the iPhone, it became available in 2013 in iOS 7. Thus, it took Microsoft six years to implement a similar feature in Windows.

Major Update Release - Windows 10 Fall Creators Update

On October 17, 2017, Microsoft announced a major update for the Windows 10 operating system. The package, called Fall Creators Update, is designed to be installed on personal computers.

According to Microsoft, Windows 10 Fall Creators Update will begin to be installed on more than 500 million devices. The main innovations are as follows:

• updated the "Photos" section - the ability to add cinematic 3D effects based on artificial intelligence technologies;
• availability of Windows Mixed Reality;
• the ability to overlay 3D objects in real time on the image in the camera lens using Mixed Reality Viewer, integration of 3D elements into the Office package;
• Save memory on OneDrive Files on Demand to optimize file downloads from the cloud
• My People multifunctional address book (you can pin the contacts of the right people to the taskbar for quick access. For example, you can call them on Skype or e-mail the file by dragging it to the contact icon);
• Enhanced protection against ransomware viruses (such as WannaCry or Petya) Windows Defender Exploit Guard.

The updated OS also received a cloud clipboard for Windows, iOS and Android, with which content copied to a PC can be pasted on a smartphone (a similar function was previously presented by Apple). Another innovation of the Fall Creators Update is the OneDrive Files On-Demand function, with which users can see files and their settings in the OneDrive cloud without downloading - they will only need to download files if they need to open them.

Three ways to get Windows 10 Fall Creators Update are available to users: download the update (relevant for those who have a PC with previous licensed versions of Windows 10), buy a computer preinstalled with Windows 10 Fall Creators Update and purchase an operating system and install it on your computer.^[34]

Fall Creators Update: Emphasis on AR and VR

On September 1, 2017, Microsoft revealed details of a major new update for the Windows 10 operating system. The Fall Creators Update will focus on augmented (AR) and virtual (VR) reality.

The update will include the Microsoft Windows Mixed Reality platform, which Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP Inc. and Lenovo are going to use in their VR hardware.

Windows Mixed Reality tools allow you to use a regular webcam to overlay virtual objects on a real image. Something similar can be seen in applications for smartphones some manufacturers.

In addition, in the updated OS, its appearance and system applications will be changed in accordance with a new concept called Fluent Design System. It is based on the use of various transition effects and new animations.

Other innovations include People (pin to taskbar) and OneDrive Files On-Demand. Thanks to the latter, users will not need to constantly synchronize files from the company's proprietary cloud storage or download folders entirely: all elements will be visible initially, and the desired content can be downloaded.

We are approaching the fourth major update to Windows 10. The main goal of these innovations is to create a platform that will inspire creativity and creation. We see students playing and learning with Minecraft, lawyers actively working with words, accountants using numbers, designers sharing ideas using slides, and programmers writing code. Creativity is universal and motivates in itself   , "said Terry Myerson, executive vice president of Microsoft Windows and Devices Group[35]

The Fall Creators Update is scheduled for release on October 17, 2017. In 2018, a new update will be released - called Redstone 4.

Windows 10 Pro for Workstations

Main article: Windows 10 Pro for Workstations

August 11, 2017 Microsoft confirmed the creation operating system Windows of 10 for workstations. Its differences from the regular version focus on fast processing of large amounts of data.

Eye Control will allow you to control the computer with eye movements

On August 2, Microsoft announced that the Eye Control feature, which helps users with motor disorders to control a computer, will become part of Windows 10. Members of the Windows Insiders program can already try this feature, and it will officially be released with the Windows 10 Creators Update in the fall of 2017. The goal of introducing this feature is to make Windows as much as possible available for use without traditional controls.

Some functions from the Eye Control set are designed to replace the mouse, others - the keyboard. In general, this method of recognizing shape-writing allows you to quickly enter text with eye movements: the user, looking at the virtual keyboard, delays the look at the first letter of the word, and then can quickly draw his eyes on all the following characters. This is more effective than entering one letter when you need to delay your gaze at each of them. Eye Control users also have tips that make it easier to print with a glance, Microsoft said.

To use the new features of the system, you will need Tobii's Eye Tracker 4C controller camera. A detailed guide on how to set up and use this system can be found on the company's blog.

A special development team is now responsible for the development of Eye Control at Microsoft, while everything began as part of the project at a weekly hackathon in 2014. According to its results, the judges chose the winners among 3 thousand projects, and the head of the company, Satya Nadella, presented the main prize to the creators of the technology that formed the basis of Eye Control.

As noted, the inspiration for the team members was a letter from Steve Gleeson, a former famous American football player suffering from motor neurone disease. Gleeson called for new technological solutions that could make life easier for people limited in their ability to move.

Windows Subsystem for Linux will be included in the OS

On August 1, 2017, it became known about Microsoft's plans to include Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) functionality in the release of Windows 10 Fall Creators Update (FCU).

In assembly 16251, WSL does not have beta status - the Linux subsystem can be used as a full component of the Windows 10 toolkit. WSL allows you to work with Linux command line tools, initiate Windows processes from it and access Windows files. You can initiate Linux processes from Windows CLI (as of August 1, 2017, Linux files are not available from Windows - Microsoft is working to fix the problem)^[36].

Linux distributions run on top of WSL in interactive scenarios, the developer said. The subsystem is not designed to run workloads///, ApachenginxMySQL etc MongoDB. And there are no plans to support X/GUI applications, desktops and. servers

The launch of "native" Linux executables is implemented through a special layer that translates Linux system calls to Windows system calls "on the fly" - the opposite analogue of the Wine system. The user environment is created on the batch basis of Ubuntu. Canonical and Microsoft added the ability to run Ubuntu on top of Windows 10 in order to provide system administrators and developers with the ability to use bash and other Linux tools and utilities (make, gawk and grep) directly in Windows.

A month earlier, Microsoft added Linux Enterprise Server 12 and openSUSE Leap 42 to Windows StoreSUSE. After installing them, Windows users will have the opportunity to work with the Linux environment in a virtual sandbox, as on a separately installed OS with all its functionality, but without the need to separately run the Linux bootloader. SLES 12 and openSUSE Leap 42 distributions will also be available to Windows 10 S users.

Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 16251 released

On July 28, 2017, Microsoft announced the release of Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 16251. It is available to Windows Insider members.

The main thing in this assembly is the Continue-to-PC function. It can be tested using the example of cross-platform web surfing. To sync two devices, you need to go to the Phone ("Phone") section in the Windows 10 settings, and install the experimental Microsoft Apps application on Android, a link to which will come via SMS^[37].

Users can continue to watch sites previously opened in a mobile browser on the big screen, copy and paste content from the universal clipboard. This buffer is one of the main innovations in the fall Windows 10 Fall Creators Update.

Only Android smartphones are supported in pre-build, and iPhone support should appear in the final build. This is one of the features that Microsoft plans to add as part of the concept of "continuity," which implies close interaction with devices on iOS and Android. Microsoft wants to make sure that in the future, users can switch between devices on different platforms and be able to resume working in a particular application from where they left off.

The Cortana assistant has been updated, voice commands have been added to lock, log out of the account, reboot and turn off the PC. Changes during the reboot process allow you to quickly log in to your account and restore applications. Changes have been made to the input process using the touch keyboard, the reliability of work, including with PDF files, has been increased in the Edge browser.

As of July 28, 2017, the release date for Fall Creators Update has not been announced. The update is expected to be released possibly in September-October 2017.

Intel Atom Clover Trail devices will not receive Windows 10 Creators Update

Devices based on Intel Atom processors with Clover Trail architecture will not receive the Windows 10 Creators Update. ZDNet wrote about this in July with reference to the words of Microsoft representatives. In exchange, the corporation will offer a previous version of the update for such devices - Windows 10 Anniversary Update, as well as security updates until January 2023 (the end date of the extended support period for the original version of OCWindows 8.1).^[38]

Previously, the company regularly provided free Windows 10 updates for laptops and convertible tablets based on Intel Atom Clover Trail chips. As ZDNet found out, a number of compatible drivers no longer allow owners of such devices to receive the Windows 10 Creators Update.

In an official statement from Microsoft regarding the situation with Intel Atom processors, it is explained that additional hardware support would be required to support all the new functionality implemented in the Windows 10 Creators software update, the Clover Trail processor architecture.

"However, these systems are no longer supported by Intel itself (End of Interactive Support), so without the necessary driver support, they are unable to switch to Windows 10 Creators Update without potential performance degradation," a Microsoft spokesman told The Verge.

Microsoft begins development of Controlled folder access

On June 30, 2017, Microsoft announced the start of testing the folder access control function.

After the May WannaCry virus attack, Microsoft fixed a vulnerability in all versions of its OS (including unsupported ones), but a massive infection with the NotPetya virus showed that the update was not installed on many systems. Microsoft decided to develop a way to ensure user security in the absence of system security patches^[39].

In the following versions of Windows, the company intends to enable the Controlled folder access function. The purpose of the function is to control access to critical folders. Each time a specific application tries to make an unauthorized notification, the user will receive an appropriate warning.

The Controlled folder access tool is integrated with the Windows Defender Security Center in the pre-build of the Windows 10 Fall Creators Update and will be available to a wide range of users with the release of the OS version in September 2017. With its help, users will be able to monitor each folder, as well as network resources and connected disks - if software from ransomware hits the user's computer, it will not be possible to encrypt files.

Controlled folder access provides a number of settings. Users can choose which folders to secure, make exceptions, and allow certain applications to make changes to specific folders. But the Documents, Images, Videos, and Desktop folders will be protected by default, and the user will not be able to add them to the exclusion list.

Discount to Indian users

In June 2017, Indian authorities asked for a Microsoft big discount for residents of the country to install Windows 10 after a series of large-scale ones cyber attacks that affected mainly computers on older operating systems. Gulshan Reuters cyber security India Rai, coordinator of issues, told the news agency about this.

According to him, Microsoft management "in principle agreed" to the request to set more "democratic prices" for downloading Windows 10 to user and corporate computers.

This will be a one-time offer to upgrade to Windows 10. The reduced cost will be valid throughout the country, - said Rai.

He did not name a specific discount size, but expressed confidence that Microsoft would allow the installation of a new computer platform for a quarter of the current price.

As of early July 2017, the retail price of Windows 10 Home in India is 8 thousand rupees ($124), the version of Windows 10 Pro is 15 thousand rupees ($232). About 96% of the 57 computers in the country are managed by various versions of Windows, according to the analytical company Counterpoint Research.

Gulshan Rai said that the Indian government began negotiating with Microsoft executives to reduce the price of installing Windows 10 after ransomware viruses hit computers in many countries, exploiting vulnerabilities in older versions of Windows.

Reuters notes that if Microsoft agrees to the discount, it could receive similar requests in other countries. Given that there are not many Windows 10 users in India, selling the OS at a 75% reduced price could deprive the company of several billion dollars in revenue.

Indian users and small organizations often do not transfer their PCs to more recent operating systems due to high costs. The government wants all people to update their systems, Gulshan Rai reported.^[40]

Massive Source Code Leak

In June 2017, part of the Windows 10 source code refused to be publicly available. Files totaling 32 TB, which were published on the BetaArchive website (tracks the release of updates for this operating system), contain official and private platform builds, the source code of Windows 10 drivers, USB and Wi-Fi stacks, and the ARM version of the OneCore kernel.

In addition, several versions of the Windows 10 Mobile Adaptation Kit application were discovered inside the archive, which allows you to port the top ten to various mobile devices.

The Register writes that a leak from Microsoft's internal storage occurred back in March 2017. More precisely, the source of the loss of information was the Microsoft Shared Source Kit, distributed among OEM partners. Microsoft

A Microsoft spokesman for The Verge confirmed that the files that hit the Internet are indeed fragments of the Windows 10 source code. They were part of the Shared Source Initiative project and were used by equipment manufacturers and company partners, he explained.

Journalists dubbed this Windows source code leak the largest since a similar incident that occurred with Windows 2000 in 2004. Although the files were deleted, anyone who managed to access them could use the data to search for vulnerabilities in the OS security system, so Windows computers are at risk of global hacking.

Meanwhile, the BetaArchive administration said that it was not 32 TB of confidential data related to Windows 10 that was published, but only 1.2 GB. Probably, those who reported the leak had in mind a major release of Windows 10 dated March 24, 2017, the source of which was members of the forum, participants in the Windows Insider program and Microsoft Connect. This archive included outdated builds of the operating system, which have already been replaced by new ones, BetaArchive noted.^[41]

Windows 10 Fall Creators Update announced

On May 11, 2017, Microsoft announced the upcoming large-scale Windows OS update in 20174 called Windows 10 Fall Creators Update.

The update is expected to be available for download in the fall of 2017. Announced:

• Creative tools available for Windows, iOS, and Android devices
• apps in the Windows Store, including iTunes;
• tools for working in Windows "home" platform for developers;
• motion controllers for Windows mixed reality technologies that do not require additional sensors.

We created Windows 10 so that each of us could unleash our creative potential. We are glad that our users will be able to get an unforgettable experience from Windows 10 Fall Creators Update. The update will create more opportunities for creativity, work and entertainment. And the stylish and modern universal interface is equally convenient for use on any type of device. In addition, the latest update will make it easier for developers to create applications, contributing to the development of future technologies. Terry Myerson, Executive Vice President, Microsoft Windows Device Group

Windows 10 Creators Update

On March 29, 2017, Microsoft announced the release of the Windows 10 Creators Update on April 11, 2017. The developers include broadcasting the passage of games through the Beam service and expanding the scope of Windows Ink.

Games and videos become available in resolution 4K and in this resolution you can watch Netflix browser Edge ^[42]

In Windows 10 Creators Update, the Beam service allows you to conduct an online broadcast of the game with a delay of less than 1 s. The service provides viewers with the ability to interact with the player and video stream, influence the game in real time. The game toolbar allows you to start streaming Beam, take a screenshot or record a fragment of the game without distracting from the gameplay.

To stabilize the video stream, a game mode has been created. It allows you to optimize PC performance, in particular, the operation of the processor and graphics processing devices, during the game.

Windows 10 Creators Update has added a 4K resolution, is 4x clearer than Full HD and makes compatible game graphics more realistic.

Microsoft positions Windows 10 Creators Update as an update for people with creative potential. It is assumed that an ecosystem of 3D applications, a Windows Ink tool and maps will help implement it.

Paint 3D provides the ability to create and modify 3D objects. You can change their color or texture, convert 2D images to 3D.

Using Windows Ink, you can sign photos. Windows Ink allows you to write by hand in Word and create 3D models in Paint 3D using digital ink. Ink can be used for markups on maps. Using Windows Ink, you can draw in photos and videos.

Windows 10 Creators Update includes an application for watching Movies & TV video files. It allows you to view video with 4K resolution, taken in the form of a 360-degree panorama.

Groove's music app is integrated with OneDrive's cloud storage. This allows you to create playlists that are common to all user devices, including those running Android, iOS, Sonos, Windows and Xbox.

The Edge browser has the ability to save tab collections and the user can return to previous sessions. Books in EPUB format became possible to read in the browser interface by adjusting the scale, font and color of the text.

Edge has built-in online protection against phishing and malware. Extensions have been added that allow you to use Ebates, Intel TrueKey, Read & Write, Ghostery and RoboForm services from the browser. Edge allows you to watch the Netflix channel in 4K resolution if a 4K-compatible screen and Intel KabyLake chipset are connected to the PC.

The Windows 10 Creators Update has a privacy control panel where you can view and manage information about the operation of various services. Settings view has been upgraded. The procedure for selecting the diagnostic data collection configuration has changed. The number of possible configuration options decreased from 3 levels to 2 - basic and complete. Less data is collected at the base level. Windows Defender Security Center has assembled all PC health and security management tools in one place.

The Anniversary Update has a centralized Windows Security Center portal related to the Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection enterprise security service. From there, you can now access Office 365 Advanced Threat Protection through the Microsoft Intelligent Security Graph. This allows the system administrator to track network attacks and intrusions into mail without interfering with the work of users.

Windows 10 Creators Update continued to migrate resources and resource-intensive tasks to the cloud. The developers claim that the process of buying, commissioning, providing support and security for corporate PCs is facilitated. The revised Analytics panel should simplify the process of installing Windows 10 and subsequent support.

Lawsuit over automatic update

On March 27, 2017, the media published information about the lawsuit of three Illinois residents against Microsoft, claiming data losses as a result of an automatic update of Windows 10.

The plaintiffs alleged data destruction and computer damage as a result of installing an automatic Windows 10 update. The lawsuit claims: "Windows 10 is a low-quality product, its creators did not warn users about the potential dangers of installing the OS, in particular, data loss and system stability."

The lawyers of the authors of the appeal insist that it should receive the status of a class action, and every US citizen who switched from Windows 7 to Windows 10 and suffered from data loss or other software damage within 30 days from the date of installation of the OS can become a plaintiff. According to lawyers, the number of victims of the OS is measured in "hundreds and thousands."^[43].

The corporation reacted calmly to the statement of claim of Illinois residents.

The program for the free upgrade of the OS to Windows 10 laid down the principle of choice in order for users to determine the most secure and productive system for themselves. Users have the option not to upgrade to Windows 10. If the user has any problems after the upgrade, there are different ways to solve them, including a free customer support service and 31 days to return to the old OS. We consider the claims of the plaintiffs unfounded. official letter from Microsoft

The free Windows 10 upgrade period ended on July 29, 2016.

Features of support for Intel and AMD processors

On March 24, 2017, Microsoft published information about the operation of Windows 10 on Intel and AMD processors, according to which companies need to pay attention to the peculiarities of supporting these processors with Windows operating systems.

• Intel processors for 7th generation personal devices (code name of the Kaby Lake microarchitecture, beginning of release - Q1 2017);
• AMD processors of the seventh generation (codename Bristol Ridge microarchitecture, beginning of release - Q3 2016);
• Qualcomm 8996 processors (used mainly for mobile devices).

Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7 and earlier operating systems on devices with specified or later generation processors will no longer be able to check for updates and download updates through Windows Update. When an upgrade is attempted, the user will see an error message indicating that the hardware is incompatible and will not be able to complete the upgrade.

The Windows Update window may display an error message indicating that the search for updates failed.

The specified error will occur when you try to receive any updates through the official Microsoft update service, including the Microsoft Office software package.

In addition to the inability to receive updates, users may encounter a change in the operating mode of some devices. When using desktops and All-in-Ones running Windows 8.1, Windows 7, or earlier with processorsIntel or AMD 7th or later generations, standard drivers are installed operating system for certain types of devices without the possibility of installing and further using specialized drivers.

Accordingly, for such devices, their capabilities are not fully used, the devices operate at a minimum functionality.

To correct these situations, the company recommends that you update the OS to Windows 10.

Windows 10 for PRC

March 22, 2017 Microsoft announced the completion of the development of a specialized version operating system Windows 10 and readiness to put it in the PRC.

In 2016, Microsoft representatives announced work on a special version of Windows 10 for the Chinese government sector. A version of the operating system approved by the country's leadership is being developed by a joint venture created by Microsoft in conjunction with China Electronics Technology Group Corp. (CETC). C&M Information Technologies is an exclusive licensor for state-owned and critical state-owned enterprises in the PRC^[44].

A Chinese "government" version of Windows 10 called Zhuangongban will be shipped to the country along with a consumer market version of Windows 10 and companies from the non-governmental sector.

state Version Properties

Microsoft officials are not discussing the differences between the Windows 10 version and the specialized one. It is only known that the latter has removed a number of consumer applications and functions in order to improve security, security and manageability.

According to the official media of the PRC, the version of Windows 10 for the Chinese government sector has been tested "by three large corporate clients" and is recognized as fairly secure and controlled.

OS redesign

On February 22, 2017, Microsoft announced the preparation of the release of Windows 10 updates in the form of the Creators Update - in the spring of 2017 and Redstone 3, which will have to change the graphical interface of the system.

The publication wccftech.com announced the corporation's plans to present the Project Neon design language in Redstone 3, which should bring the interfaces of desktop PCs, mobile devices and augmented reality devices closer together. The basis for the language will be Microsoft Design Language 2 (MDL2), it is used by the system on February 22, 2017^[45] will^[45]

Neon should make the interfaces of different Windows applications more uniform (this is supposed to help users more easily change one desktop to another on different devices) and smoother, add visual effects to the OS. With reference to insiders, the publication announced Neon's ability to take elements of applications outside their windows.

Probably, Redstone 3 will have features that were not previously included in the Creators Update, it can be a My People panel that integrates communication important contacts into the system, or Home Hub applications for using the voice assistant Amazon Alexa and wireless speaker with Home voice control Google.

2016

Microsoft launches PC programs on Windows smartphones with Qualcomm processors

On December 7, 2016, Microsoft introduced a version of Windows 10 compatible with Qualcomm processors. This will allow you to run programs for personal computers on smartphones.

At the Windows Hardware Engineering Community (WinHEC) conference in Shenzhen, China, Windows 10 was demonstrated on a device equipped with a Snapdragon 820 single-chip system clocked at 1.59 GHz. In particular, Microsoft showed the launch of Adobe Photoshop, the World of Tank Blitz game and the Office suite with touch control, including using a digital stylus.

It is noted that we are talking about support for Qualcomm processors for full-fledged Windows 10, and not for its mobile or some stripped-down version. To run computer programs on portable gadgets, developers will not have to make any changes to their software, since Qualcomm and Microsoft implement mutual support for their products through an emulator, which, according to companies, works very quickly.

Microsoft and Qualcomm reported that the first devices on Windows 10 and Snapdragon platforms will hit the market in 2017. They will be distinguished by a thin design and the ability to work without recharging for several days and be constantly connected to the network. The companies have not named the manufacturers who will release electronics with Windows 10 and Snapdragon at the heart.

Qualcomm processors use an ARM architecture that Microsoft has already tried to link to its operating system. However, this version of Windows, released in 2012, in addition to Microsoft, was used by only four tablet manufacturers. The project turned out to be a failure: two companies limited themselves to releasing small batches of Windows devices based on ARM chips, and Microsoft itself was forced to reduce the cost of such tablets of its own production, and then write off unsold products, incurring heavy losses.^[46]

Windows 10 Anniversary Update

On August 2, 2016, Microsoft announced the start of shipping the anniversary update to Windows 10.

This Week on Windows: Anniversary Update, (2016)

It will become available to users around the world. It, in particular, adds functions and capabilities:

• a Windows Ink handwriting feature for creating notes, pictures, and sketches of your idea right on the screen.
• Increased security of access to applications and sites with Windows Defender and Windows Hello.
• Improved energy efficiency of Microsoft Edge, which will help save on computer battery power, * Pinterest Pin It Button, Amazon Assistant, AdBlock, Adblock Plus and LastPass extensions will help personalize the user experience with the browser.
• The app store contains a wide range of apps for work and play.
• technologies for the educational process, including an easy and fast to install set of services that teachers can independently configure in the classroom.

The Windows 10 anniversary update contains more than 150 power optimization options that significantly improve performance and increase computer life.

The first major update is out

On June 29, 2016, Microsoft officially announced the release date of the first major update for Windows 10 and the number of devices managed by this operating system.

According to a post from Microsoft, the Windows 10 Anniversary Update will be available for download on August 2, 2016. Users will be able to install it for free.

The Anniversary update includes significant system improvements for both private and corporate users. Among the innovations are the Windows Ink handwriting function, improved features, browserEdge new security features and gaming capabilities. In addition, the platform user interface has been slightly improved.

Two new security elements will be available for business users: Windows Defender Advanced Threat Protection (WDATP) and Windows Information Protection. The latter function allows you to separate personal and corporate data.

WDATP serves to detect, analyze, and respond to malicious attacks on an enterprise network through an extensive threat detection and analytics system. By the end of June 2016, this technology was deployed in more than 700 thousand workstations and is being tested among 300 companies in 70 countries.

The name of the first large-scale update for Windows 10 was not chosen by chance: the word "anniversary" in English means the anniversary, and July 29, 2016 will be exactly a year since the final version of Windows 10 appeared in the public domain.

Owners of computers based on Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 will only be able to install Windows 10 for free until July 29, 2016. Microsoft does not disclose how much the operating system will cost for corporate clients in the future, but the price for consumers is already known - 7900 rubles for the version of Windows 10 Home.

Microsoft reported that by the end of June 2016, there are more than 350 million active Windows 10 devices in the world, and the total operating time has exceeded 135 billion hours.^[47]

The user sued $10 thousand for a failed installation of Windows 10

At the end of June 2016, it became known about the results of a trial in which an American woman accused Microsoft of slow operation of its personal computer as a result of an unsuccessful automatic update of its operating system to Windows 10.

According to the British edition of The Guardian, California resident Teri Goldstein used a Windows 7 laptop. Once a PC tried to automatically upgrade to Windows 10, but the process could not be completed successfully, after which the device began to work unstable and often hung, a disgruntled user claimed in a lawsuit.

"I've never heard of Windows 10. No one ever asked me if I wanted to update my computer, "the plaintiff said.

According to her, Microsoft support did not see this as an issue, after which she decided to file a lawsuit against Microsoft, demanding that the company reimburse the cost of the computer and lose wages, since Goldstein used a PC for work. The court sided with the prosecution and ordered Microsoft to pay $10 thousand.

Microsoft tried to appeal this decision, but subsequently withdrew its appeal, arguing that it was easier for the company to pay the user money than to continue the trial.

This is the first well-known case when someone managed to sue Microsoft for funds for  updating the software. According to Teri Goldstein, her example could set a precedent for other users affected by an incorrect Windows update.

According to the NetMarketShare service, by the end of March 2016, Windows 10 was installed on 270 million computers in the world, which corresponded to 17.4% of the total number of systems. Owners of PCs based on Windows 7, 8 and 8.1 will be able to install Windows 10 for free until July 29, 2016.^[48]

Windows 10 Anniversary First major update

On March 31, 2016, Microsoft announced the first major Windows 10 update. The software is scheduled for release in the summer of 2016^[49].

Microsoft has announced Windows 10 Anniversary - the first major update for Windows 10 (the next iteration of the "top ten"). The announcement was made at the Microsoft Build conference in San Francisco.

Among the major changes are:

• support for Windows Hello in applications (including the Microsoft Edge browser),
• Windows Ink function,
• improved Cortana function,
• Support for universal apps on Xbox.

Windows Hello is a feature that allows you to log into Windows without entering a password, using a fingerprint or scanning the iris. In Anniversary, this feature will work for site authentication when using the Edge browser. It will also appear in various Microsoft applications.

Windows Ink is the possibility of handwriting (using a digital pen) in OneNote, other specialized note applications, in Maps, Microsoft Edge, Office, etc. Developers can add feature support to their own applications.

Voice assistant Cortana will be able to perform tasks in Anniversary. In particular, we are talking about proactive prompts throughout the day, the availability of the function without unlocking the device, directly from the lock screen. Third-party developers will be able to integrate functions into their applications.

Support for universal apps on Xbox lets you create apps and games for Windows desktop and Xbox at the same time. In addition, Microsoft has promised to turn the Xbox console into an app development platform. Developers will be able to activate Xbox Dev Mode on any console instance.

The Windows 10 Anniversary update will be available to all Windows 10 users for free.

Windows 10 is installed on more than 300 million active devices

According to MS, Windows 10 has become the fastest-updated version of Windows in the history of the operating system. Brian Rooper from the Windows team presented in his video 10 main arguments in favor of switching to Windows 10.

2015

Dell, HP and Lenovo support discourages Windows 10

In early November 2015, it became known that technical support for major computer manufacturers Dell, HP and Lenovo actively recommends that users not work in a Windows 10 environment. This can be due to two reasons: the incompetence of company employees and the shortcomings of the operating system.

Laptop Mag reviewers found out that Dell, HP and Lenovo technical support workers do not advise PC owners to use Windows 10 during their own research. They called the call centers of vendors on behalf of users who allegedly had problems working with the top ten.

During one of these calls, a Dell IT specialist, having heard about the faulty operation of the touchpad in a Windows 10 laptop, suggested rolling back the OS and noted that the company is receiving a huge number of calls about the new Microsoft software platform.

Similar recommendations are given to users in technical support for HP and Lenovo, explaining this by the presence of a considerable number of shortcomings in Windows 10, as well as the fact that the main task of the technical support specialist is to make the computer fully functional again, even if this requires the return of ON the previous generation. In some cases, phone or online chat technicians give customers detailed installation instructions Windows 8.1 instead of the newer Windows 10.

However, another version is also being expressed, explaining why Windows 10 users who contact technical support are discouraged from working with this "operating system." Perhaps this is due to the incompetence of call center employees who themselves did not understand the functionality and interface of Windows 10, and therefore it is easier for them to dissuade people from updating^[50]).

Free virtual machines for Hyper-V, vSphere, VirtualBox and Parallels Desktop

On August 18, 2015, Microsoft announced the free availability of virtual machines with a new version of the Windows 10 guest OS in the form of ready-made virtual modules (Virtual Appliances) for virtualization platforms: VMware vSphere/Workstation, Microsoft Hyper-V, Oracle VirtualBox and Parallels Desktop Windows^[51]

On the Windows host OS, you can use Workstation, Hyper-V or VirtualBox platforms, for Mac OS you can use VMware Fusion, Parallels Desktop or VirtualBox, on Linux you can only run the machine on VirtualBox.

Screenshot of the OS screen, 2015

The company will publish machines in other formats (for example, QEMU) - Microsoft has automated the process of creating virtual modules. This is done to draw users into using the Microsoft Edge browser and Windows 10.

Virtual machines are distributed in the form of zip archives of about 5 GB in size, where VM files are located in virtual module formats (for VMware this is an OVA). The machine itself is configured to become obsolete 90 days after first turning on - it must be considered as a testing environment, but not a production machine (since, after aging, the data will become inaccessible). Microsoft recommends creating a VM snapshot immediately after loading so that you can roll back to a clean system.

Downloading ready-made virtual machines from Windows 10 is available from the link.

Windows 10: Everyone will pay

On July 30, 2015, Microsoft responded with a comment to the appearance on the network of messages about the free update of pirated versions of the OS to Windows 10, briefly sounding like: all^[52] to^[52].

According to the media, during the first day Microsoft received a database of 14 million users. Each of them is "under the supervision of Windows 10." Computers of users of previous versions of Windows automatically downloaded the necessary files and invited their owners to carry out the update procedure.

Users of pirated versions were also allowed to update, but in a day Microsoft commented on what was happening: "Even if users using the pirated version of Windows can update to Windows 10, the status of their system will not change from this - and after the update it will remain non-licensed."

Windows 10 screen, 2015

And the main thing is displayed on the screen: Windows 10 users who previously worked in pirated versions of the OS receive a notification about the need to activate the system. The message is superimposed on the image and remains on the screen until a copy of Windows is purchased from the Microsoft Store.

The official prices for Windows 10 in the company's store are higher than those at which the OS is sold from software retailers: a genuine copy of Windows 10 Pro for a "pirate" will stand at 13,900 rubles, the Home version at 7,900 rubles. Russian retailers offer the Pro version for 9,900 rubles, Home - 5,790 rubles.

July 29 is the day of the official release of Windows 10

On July 29, 2015, Microsoft announced the official release date in 190 countries of Windows 10. Users of devices running licensed versions of Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 can upgrade to Windows 10 for free within a year of the release of this OS.

Windows 10, 2015

The company's management considers this day nothing more than a "new era of Windows," which "will help people and organizations around the world do great things."

Windows 10 will be provided as a service, i.e. all updates, current security settings and innovative services will be installed automatically. Windows 10 will work on any device: PC, tablets, smartphones, Xbox One, HoloLens augmented reality device, etc. As of July 29, 2015, more than 2 thousand different devices and configurations were tested, the company said.

The OS was created taking into account the feedback of users who became participants in the Preliminary Testing Program. According to some participants, the preliminary testing program is, firstly, the ability for users to be heard, to influence the development of Windows 10. Secondly, for Microsoft - experience gained not from abstract focus groups and groups of testers, but reviews from the most important people for the company - Windows users. Thirdly, for the category of IT fans, this is an opportunity to touch the holy of holies, to see - "how your ideas and reviews affect the development of the new". " operating system Microsoft

As part of Windows 10:

• Microsoft Edge is a completely new Microsoft browser. Users of any Windows 10 device will now be able not only to quickly find information and view search results, but also to take notes on the page using a stylus, mouse or finger, and then share them with friends and colleagues.

• Xbox Integration - The Xbox built-in app lets you play with friends on any device, and play games from your Xbox One console on a tablet or PC. In addition, thanks to the DVR function, players will be able to save, edit and share their best gaming moments with friends.

• The Start - Start and Taskbar menus, familiar to Windows 7 and Windows 8 users, will allow you to quickly access the most important content.

• Cortana is a personal assistant that makes it easier to find and find the information you need at any time on your phone, PC or tablet.

• Continuum - Optimizes applications for equally comfortable work on touchscreen devices and traditional PCs.

• Built-in applications - new applications developed for Windows 10:
  • Photos,
  • maps,
  • Mail and Calendar, suitable for both entertainment and work.

• Companion app - allows smartphones running Android and iOS to seamlessly interact with Windows 10 devices.

• Office Mobile applications - new Word, Excel, PowerPoint, created specifically for Windows 10. Universal applications will be available for free download in the Windows Store.

Starting July 29, 2015, users of Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 will gradually begin to receive notifications about a free update to Windows 10 as soon as it can be installed.

Microsoft plans after July 29

On July 27, 2015, the media became aware of plans to release the Windows operating system on July 10 29, Wednesday^[53]

July 29, 2015, 2015

This day will be the beginning of the process of distributing the system for PCs and tablets. In the fall, Windows 10 Mobile is expected to appear for smartphones powered by Intel and ARM processors, for small tablets as well. The Surface Hub conferencing system, HoloLens virtual reality device, various IoT devices will appear in 2015 or even later.

Declaring the financial results of the 2nd quarter, the head of the company Satya Nadella, when asked by analysts, answered what to expect in the near future:

• initial distribution of Windows 10 will take place in three stages
  • July 29 will begin updating Windows 7 and 8.1 systems and the appearance of Windows 10 in retail

• Numerous new Windows 10 devices will be on sale in the fall.

According to Nadell, manufacturers are preparing more than 2,000 models and device configurations with many new designs. Some of them will be sold in the summer of 2015, most will arrive in time for the festive sales of the end of the year.

The management of the corporation promised new functionality for enterprises and companies before the end of the year. Massive implementation by customers is expected in the first half of 2016. What are these features that may be included with the Fall Threshold 2 update?

In a table comparing the functionality of different editions of Windows 10, there is a footnote that at the time of release, the Pro, Enterprise and Education editions will lack the Enterprise Data Protection function. It separates personal data from workers by preventing their leakage.

Another innovation is the Business Store for Windows 10, a web portal for companies to distribute their own applications. Messaging, Phone and Video applications may also appear, which in Windows 10 replace the traditional non-default Skype application.

Initially, Microsoft was going to introduce Windows 10 in the fall, but decided to be in time for the beginning of the school year. In addition to the large-scale update of the system codenamed Threshold 2, Redstone 1 and 2 updates are expected this October in the summer and autumn of next year.

Released Windows build 10 10166

On July 9, 2015, Microsoft introduced build 10166 Windows 10 for participants in the Windows Insider pre-test program^[54].

The emphasis of this build is on correcting system flaws, improving performance and stability. It has added functionality - a service, Wi-Fi while it operates only in the territory (USA Seattle). It allows users to buy Windows Store the right to work with millions of access points in the store. Wi-Fi The corresponding application is planned to be released for platforms, and. iOS Android OS X Subscribers of the application Skype Wi-Fi and service will receive access. Office 365 Enterprise

Screenshot of the OS desktop, 2015

At the same time, another version of the Windows 10 Preview SDK development tools kit is presented. It also fixes bugs, enhancements and images of the latest version of the emulator for Windows 10 Mobile. Developers are advised to first remove the previous version of the emulator and only then install a new one, in order to avoid conflict with Visual Studio.

The release of the next version of RTM is expected in July 15-16, 2015, and the release of the final version on July 29, 2015.

Distribution of Windows 10 will take place in several stages

On July 2, 2015, it became known about the procedure for distributing free copies of Windows 10 - not everyone will receive free copies on July 29, 2015. The participants of the Windows Insiders program will be the first to find the final version of the OS^[55].

Microsoft will distribute updates in several stages. From July 29, members of the Windows Insiders program will begin to receive copies of the final version of the operating system. Then the newsletter will reach the owners of licenses for Windows 7 and 8.1 systems, who took advantage of the opportunity to back up the update using the program, the icon of which began to appear on screens in the notification area in May 2015. The program will automatically download a copy, check compatibility, and notify the user that they are ready to install.

Windows 10 wallpaper, 2015

Phased distribution of new versions is not a new phenomenon and developers use this mechanism for massively used programs. This reduces the load on the servers and allows correction of errors detected during the update process.

Distribution of enterprise versions (Windows 10 Enterprise) and educational versions (Windows 10 Education) will begin on August 1, 2015. These versions are not included in the free update program. OEM partners, Microsoft as the company promises, will receive versions for installation on new computers earlier. Dell and other hardware manufacturers plan to launch Windows 10 computers on July 29, 2015.

Build Windows 10 Build 10151 leaked to the network

On June 28, 2015, it became known about the leak of the build of Windows 10 Build 10151 into the network^[56].

Full number: 10151.0.150617-1826.FBL_IMPRESSIVE_CLIENTPRO_VOL_X64FRE_ZH-CN.ISO. Judging by the identifier, the assembly is intended for users in the PRC. As previously reported by the media, the previous build 10147 also leaked ^[57] from China].

Screenshot of Windows 10 screen build 10151, 2015

Any innovations in build 10151 are not reported. The media do not predict any significant changes in the current assembly.

Windows Insider does not give rights to free updates to licensed Windows 10

On June 23, 2015, it became known about a blog post by Microsoft, which made confusion about the possibility of participants in the Windows Insider pre-test program receiving a licensed version of the Windows 10^[58] operating system^[58].

Earlier it seemed that users would be provided with a way to receive this OS for free, but later the article was updated and Microsoft clarified the situation about how program participants who update to the final version and exit the program will be able to obtain a license.

Neowin journalists believe that only an update from licensed Windows 7 and 8.1 will give free licensed Windows 10 and there are no workarounds. Users who exit the test program will not receive any privileges compared to everyone else.

If users update pirated versions, they will be asked to either return to the old version of the system, or purchase a license for a new one. With this, Microsoft makes it clear that Windows Insider will not become a source of free licensed Windows 10 for Windows XP and Vista owners.

This opinion contradicts the opinion of the Arstechnica portal, according to which participants in the Windows Insider program will receive licensed Windows 10 when updating the preliminary version to the final version (as a gift for contributing to the development of the system).

Those who want to stay in Windows Insider do not need to do anything for this. Each Windows 10 build for insiders comes out with a temporary key that allows the operating system to remain activated. After a certain time, the expiration date of the key expires, which motivates users to switch to newer versions with a valid key.

Microsoft announced the start date of sales of Windows 10

On June 1, 2015, Microsoft announced the date of the world launch of Windows 10. The company has not yet announced prices for OEM versions of the new operating system, but they are already known from unofficial sources.

According to Microsoft, sales of Windows 10 in 190 countries (including Russia) will begin on July 29, 2015. Owners of computers based on Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 will be able to install the top ten for free within a year from the moment of its release.

Windows 10 sales in the world (including Russia) will start on July 29, 2015

"With the launch of this operating system, we are starting to bring to life our concept of personalized computers, based on a responsible approach to the protection of data and the inviolability of personal information, continuity of functions on any devices and interaction with the system as convenient as possible for the user, including voice control, touch input, handwritten notes, and holographic imaging tools, "said Microsoft Executive Vice President Terry Meyerson

.

According to his forecasts, the number of devices on which Windows 10 will be installed will exceed 1 billion by 2018.

Meanwhile, online retailer Newegg.com, which previously published data on prices for new Microsoft operating systems before they went on sale, did the same in the case of Windows 10. According to the published data, the cost of OEM versions of Windows 10 Home will be $110 (about 5900 rubles at the exchange rate as of June 1, 2015), and Windows 10 Professional - $150 (8000 rubles).^[59]

At the time of publication of the material, the Microsoft press service did not comment on the price list that appeared on Windows 10. Also, the company did not report official prices in Russia.

Windows Hello will be included in Windows 10

On March 18, 2015, Microsoft confirmed the presence and availability of Windows Hello biometric identification system for users in the upcoming working release of Windows 10. Windows 10 is scheduled to appear in the summer of 2015.

Various biometric sensors will be used to identify the user: in the case of a fingerprint, a special scanner, if we are talking about the iris of the eye or face - software and hardware complexes, they will help to exclude the use of photos or imitation of real users. In particular, the cameras will use sensor data in the infrared spectrum, and the retina scanner will be able to identify the user in various lighting conditions.

Windows Hello is designed to replace the system of logins and passwords that are currently widely used to identify users. Even the most complex passwords can be hacked or stolen, Windows Hello is designed to eliminate these shortcomings, it meets the most stringent industrial security and security standards.

In addition to Windows Hello, information network administrators, application and website developers will have access to the Passport software system - this code name means a password-free identification system that they can use to identify users. Windows 10 will allow you to securely identify a user to log into a site, application or network without a password - thus, storing passwords or derived data on the server side is excluded, and hackers do not have the ability to compromise them, even in the event of a server hack. Once you activate the "Passport" on your device, the user will be able to log in without identification to a set of web resources.

The use of "Passports" and the Windows Hello system will not be mandatory - users can always abandon them in favor of more traditional authentication methods.

Microsoft is working with device development partners to integrate Windows Hello into their systems - in particular, all systems equipped with an Intel RealSense 3D camera will support device unlock technology when identifying the face or iris.

Windows 10 Technical Preview for phones officially available

On February 13, 2015, Gabe Aul, head of the Windows Insider Program, announced the availability of Windows 10 Technical Preview for phones. The new build has become available to all participants in the Windows Insider Program early testing program and contains not only a set of familiar functions and small system improvements, but also completely new features that were presented in January this year.

Windows 10 Technical Preview for phones is designed specifically for enthusiasts who are ready to use pre-release software on their additional devices. Windows 10 will be ubiquitous later this year.

Detailed information about the program and its functions, support for devices and languages, as well as how to install it and provide feedback is available on the official website. An updated description of Windows 10 Technical Preview can also be found here.

Windows 10 Updates

On January 22, 2015, Microsoft announced additions and new products to the new OS.

As part of the updates presented by the company in Windows 10:

• Cortana for PCs and tablets. The voice assistant Microsoft Cortana, introduced last year as part of the Windows Phone operating system, will now work on both PCs and tablets running Windows 10.

• The new Internet browser "Project Spartan" for Windows 10 is designed to meet the interoperability requirements of devices.

• Xbox for Windows 10. Users will be able to play on their PCs, bringing the game from their Xbox One console thanks to the new DirectX 12 software interface for Windows 10.

• Office for Windows 10: Universal Office applications for Windows 10 are adapted for touch input for comfortable work on various devices.

• The world's first holographic platform for a computer: Windows 10 allows developers to create real three-dimensional holograms. Microsoft HoloLens is the first holographic computer that does not require it to be connected to the Internet, phone or PC.

• The new Microsoft Surface Hub optimizes collaboration in Windows 10: Surface Hub allows you to take full advantage of Windows 10, Skype for Business and Office 365, creating the effect of all meeting participants in a single space, regardless of the location of each of them.

Second presentation of Microsoft Windows 10, 2015

Free upgrade to Windows 10 with Windows 8.1

On January 21, 2015, Microsoft announced that the update to Windows 10 will be free on all devices running Windows 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.1 within the first year after the system was released.^[60]

Windows 10 for Device Line, 2015

The transition during the year will be free on all devices running Windows 7. Earlier it was reported that Windows 10 will be equipped with a Start menu, but from the product demonstration in Redmond it became obvious that the menu will work differently in desktop and tablet mode.

In desktop mode, the menu will be similar to the previous Start menu, familiar from Windows 7 and earlier versions of Windows, but with "live" tiles. This is the format of the menu demonstrated by Microsoft in September 2014. If the user enters tablet mode, the Windows 10 interface will rebuild and start working in touch mode. This mode involves control using gestures on the screen, mainly. All open applications will remain in memory, but will not be displayed in windows on the desktop, but in full screen mode. Switching between applications will be performed by gestures.

The company has officially introduced the Cortana voice control feature on PCs. On smartphones, it is available (in Windows Phone 8.1). It will help you search the Internet and run installed applications with input data. For example, commands such as "Show me photos for December" or "Send a letter to such and such an addressee" will be supported. The function will be called by saying the word "Cortana."

The release of the Windows 10 build for PCs is planned after January 26, 2015, and the build of Windows 10 for smartphones in February 2015.

2014

Windows 10 build 9901 network leak

On December 14, 2014, a leak to the network of a version of Windows 10 Consumer Preview (Windows 10 build 9901) was reported by the media^[61] features of ^[61].

Microsoft is going to release this OS, tentatively, at the end of January 2015. Among the innovations: Cortana voice search, updated applications, a new application for managing user settings, etc.

The Cortana voice search function and the new Get Started personalization app can be seen in the Windows 10 Consumer Preview (Windows 10 Consumer Preview).

In Windows 10 CP, the Cortana function will be built into the search bar in the taskbar.

A pop-up with search results contains the latest news titles and weather information (thus resembling the "Notification Center" in OS X).

The new Get Started application will allow you to customize the appearance of the Start menu, search functions and other main applications. In addition to Getting Started, you can see an updated settings management application in Windows 10 CP.

Windows 10 CP has updated the Photos, Xbox and Store apps. For example, in the Store, the main groups of goods (applications, games, music and films) are placed on the main page. In updated applications, navigation is easier.

Screenshot of the OS interface with product data

Microsoft plans to introduce new custom OS features on January 21, 2014. A press conference has been scheduled for this date. Around the same time, the release of the Consumer Preview distribution is expected.

Windows 10 View

The corporation plans to release Windows 10 in 2015.

Official announcement of Windows 10

On September 30, 2014, Microsoft officially announced the successor to Windows 8, the next-generation operating system Windows 10.

Windows 10 will be able to work on a variety of devices: from SoC platforms internet of things and office PCs to high-performance servers in data centers. The new operating system one is intended mainly for business applications. Windows 10 will have a "wizard" that allows you to manage all devices in the enterprise.

Microsoft noted that users, looking at the new OS "in all its glory," will understand why the name "ten" fits better for it. According to the company, Windows 10 will be installed on a wide range of devices of various types compared to previous versions.

New OS Desktop

These devices will include desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, TVs. The new OS will be compatible with all traditional management systems used in enterprises.

New OS Desktop

Interface

The Windows 10 desktop interface is similar to Windows 8. The difference is in the "Start" button, which opens the menu - in the lower left corner of the desktop. The left column of the menu contains shortcuts to the last running applications, and the right column contains Metro application tiles. In the menu of the power management button, as it was before Windows 8. The Start menu contains an updated search function: with its help, the user can search for information on the local system and on the Internet.

Windows 10 can run Metro applications in a window on the desktop. According to the corporation's terminology, these applications are "universal," the OS developers call ordinary applications "classic."

New in the version - the Snap View function, it supports the output of universal and classic applications at the same time, dividing the screen into windows.

Multitasking

The Task View button is now available on the taskbar. With its pressing, windows of all running applications appear on the screen in a reduced form. AppleOS X has a similar feature called Mission Control. In Task View, the user can see all running applications and desktops.

Task View

Virtualization

Support for virtual desktops is another new OS. The user can create several desktops and place windows of various running applications on them. You can display all created tables and switch between them. Similar functionality works in OS X and in most operating systems based on the Linux kernel.

Command line

The command line of Windows 10 implements the ability to use the system clipboard. Now the user can, for example, paste the copied file path into the command line.

Start screen

Windows 10 has a "Start" screen preserved for touch devices. It has more shortcuts at the expense of an additional column on the left. In addition, there is a taskbar on the Start screen (a standard desktop item).

Representatives of the corporation announced the release of a technical preview of Windows 10 for desktops and laptops on October 1, 2014. Later and for servers. The final version of Windows 10 is scheduled for release in 2015.

The corporation did not announce, neither the cost, nor the conditions for the transition to the new version, referring to additional announcements.

Windows 10 View

Innovations in the technical pre-release of Windows 10

Windows 10 Technical Preview for Enterprise features accelerated switching between tasks, links to frequently used files and folders in Explorer, placing windows on the screen using Snap. A number of embodied ideas resemble those implemented in Windows Vista. In addition, WinRT applications began to open in windows on the desktop, and the unified version of IE for all devices was replaced by a browser only for desktop PCs. But architectural changes are even more important.

Authentication and Data Protection

To get a technical evaluation version of Windows 10, you must have an account in, Microsoft but this is not required for a final release. You can use your account Azure AD to sign in to, Windows get the Store and Live Tiles apps, and keep different devices in sync. Any of these operations requires registration with. Microsoft

Windows 10 defines user permissions in a new way. Supports one-time registration for user services like Twitter, corporate authentication. Tools to manage all this are not yet available.

Windows 10 will include Enterprise Data Protection (EDP) - using a container file to separate personal data from corporate data. The developers are convinced that this will make it easier to work compared to other platforms, since users will not have to install applications twice or think - in which zone they want to open them - in personal or work. Unlike document-based rights management, there is no need to write EDP applications. Instead, enterprise applications are marked and a policy is created that will prevent users from copying data from enterprise applications to personal applications and, conversely, copying dubious data to enterprise applications. However, if users need to copy data, IT can only register the data and warn the user to copy it with the permission of IT professionals. Or ban completely.

In addition to applications designed exclusively for business or personal purposes, Windows 10 will support "advanced (enlightened) applications running in both zones." They must be written specifically so that users can choose whether to save the document as an enterprise or personal document. There are no corresponding tools yet, as there are no means of setting such policies.

Making Today's Applications Acceptable

Changes in modern WinRT applications in Windows 10 are clearly found in the fact that they appear on the desktop in the same way as everything else software: in windows with headers and with a Charms panel optimized for using the mouse. Until a later version of Windows 10 has a tablet mode, which Microsoft calls Continuum, this may seem like a step back for users accustomed to the touch screen. For those who prefer a keyboard and mouse, they will look like desktop applications with a very simple interface and larger fonts.

The universal application model that applies to Windows, as well as Windows Phone and Xbox One, and even Internet of Things devices, encourages developers to create WinRT applications, and the WinRT runtime gets all the new features. But for enterprises, the problem with new applications in Windows 8 was not a development model, a full-screen interface, or an emphasis on finger touch control (here the difficulties were related only to training and user support). The problems were caused by too complex a deployment and the need for each user to have an account with Microsoft. In Windows 10, they have been largely eliminated.

Instead of creating your own enterprise application stores (including links to applications in the public Windows Store that are recommended for employees to use, help create an account with Microsoft), publishing a portal application, which employees must remember to open, the associated purchase of the corresponding client licenses (CAL), companies can create their own app stores with Custom licenses (client) and Volume (for a certain number of computers), which will open in Windows 10 in the main Store application. The Store app will be useful for enterprises because it will include tools like third-party VPN clients that can be managed through mobile device management (MDM) solutions.

Concurrent license acquisition can be fully managed through MDM, and it is possible to send links by e-mail, send out modern applications using the tools used to deploy desktop applications, with the ability to deploy applications in primary drive partitions, subsequent partitions, SD cards and USB flash drives, and, if necessary, provide users with the flexibility to use devices with a small amount of storage. It is possible to send users to the Windows Store with their accounts in the Active Directory directory, and not personal accounts in Microsoft that are outside the control of the IT department. It is possible to choose whether to allow you to install personal applications using your personal Microsoft account or block all Store applications, with the exception of those for which you have Volume licenses.

WinRT applications are important to Microsoft because they are more secure and isolated than desktop applications and can significantly save battery power.

Windows 10 Management Tools

There are no special tools for deploying Windows 10. But there are no problems with installing the OS on physical hardware or on virtual machines. System hardware requirements are low: 1-GHz processor, 1 or 2 GB RAM (for 32- and 64-bit versions, respectively), 16 GB of free disk space and a graphics card with DirectX 9 support and WDDM driver. Legacy 64-bit systems will not run Windows 10 unless they support hardware-based security features (CMPXCHG16b, PrefetchW, and LAHF/SAHF). The enterprise version will need to be activated, but this is not necessary for the consumer version.

Many new features that will be included in Windows 10 for enterprises are not available in the technical evaluation version. The next version of System Center Configuration Manager can be found no earlier than the first half of 2015 (MDM will require new versions of Intune and Microsoft Enterprise Mobility Suite). Current and earlier versions of SCCM (up to SCCM 2007 SP2) will support Windows 10. The oldest version will allow you to manage this OS, newer ones will allow you to deploy and update Windows 10, the next version will allow you to control the update speed of each device with Windows 10.

The technical version is stable and shows good performance, this is not a beta version, but Microsoft warns against using it as a development platform. However, developers will probably want to test it to create modern applications. IT experts will want to test its compatibility with LOB applications and internal sites (especially IE 11 in enterprise compatibility mode), evaluate changes in the interface. However, technical evaluation updates are expected every four to six weeks and it is too early to draw conclusions about the suitability or unsuitability of Windows 10 for business.

Notes