Windows 10: TechRadar's writers reflect on upgrading to Windows 10

TechRadar: All latest feeds Windows 10: TechRadar's writers reflect on upgrading to Windows 10

Introduction

To upgrade or not to upgrade? With Windows 10 turning from a free to a paid upgrade on July 29, that's very much the question of the moment.

Being a tech savvy bunch, most of us here at TechRadar were champing at the bit to upgrade to Microsoft's latest (and, as it seems, greatest) operating system at the first opportunity. Following several mis-steps in recent memory (Windows Vista and 8, anyone?) we wouldn't blame you for being a little more cautious.

• Windows 10 Anniversary Update: everything you need to know

One year down the line, we're taking the opportunity to sit back and observe the Windows 10 landscape to see just how far Microsoft has come since July 29, 2015.

This article is part of TechRadar's Windows 10 week. Microsoft's latest operating system turns from a free to a paid upgrade on July 29, and we're looking to answer the question of whether it's good for you.

Kane Fulton, Computing Editor

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... Though it doesn't feel wildly different, upgrading to Windows 10 from 8.1 has brought numerous small improvements that add up to make for a smoother and more pleasurable experience.

I use the Action Center's quick access settings on a daily basis, and the ability to independently adjust scaling settings on my monitor and laptop's display was sorely missing from Windows 8.

Windows 10 certainly isn't perfect, but it crashes less, run smoother and looks slicker than its predecessor. Crucially, my two most used apps - Parallels 11 and Word 2016 (with OneDrive integration) - work flawlessly together.

Joe Osborne, Senior Editor

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... To be frank, you only stand to miss out by not updating to the latest version of an operating system, whether it be Windows, macOS or even Linux. Firstly, Windows 10 has more helpful features than any version before, especially when it comes to interconnectedness between your devices – regardless of those devices' OS in many cases. Cortana and search on the taskbar has been a boon for my productivity, too.

Secondly, the OS runs more lightweight than any version before, and, if you're a PC gamer, it's the only way to get DirectX 12.

And lastly, reactions to the data Microsoft collects through use of Windows 10 have been unnecessarily heated. I won't disagree that Microsoft could have been far, far more transparent about this – like, way more. But, if you don't think that the makers of every app, service and operating system you use are not using anonymized telemetry to improve said app, service or OS – or, hell, to get more money out of you somehow – you're out of your right mind. We've all signed the EULA's without reading them, after all...

Kevin Lee, US Computing Editor

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... Aside from up upgrading my graphics card last year, Windows 10 is easily the best thing to happen to my home gaming PC.

In a single play session I switched between playing Overwatch, to running a lap in Forza 6 Apex and ending the night with some time in Red Dead Redemption streaming from my Xbox One by way of backwards compatibility.

In the future gaming on Windows 10 is only going to get better with more titles developed on DirectX 12 and Xbox Play Anywhere titles coming to PC as well.

Desire Athow, Editor TechRadar Pro & Itproportal

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... Upgrading to Microsoft's latest OS is the logical continuation in the saga of Windows.

Nadella's team managed to take it to another level is by making it free for WIndows 7 and 8.1 users for a whole year while offering continuous improvements to early adopters.

I look forward to try the Anniversary edition as soon as it lands. Windows 10 is a more friendly, less arrogant and far more - dare I say - humane operating system than its predecessors.

Jon Porter, Home Technology Writer

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... Why? As much as I appreciate the small changes Microsoft made in the transition from Windows 8 to 10 (chief among them the return of the Start menu), I'd be lying if I said that my main reason for switching wasn't gaming.

With DirectX 12 - and its huge performance increases - remaining exclusive to Windows 10, there was no way I wanted to be left out in the cold.

That doesn't mean I don't have issues with the way Microsoft handled the upgrade process. My dad came home to find his PC, which is only a couple of years old, had automatically upgraded to Windows 10 without his permission, and had broken his graphics drivers in the process.

It turns out his CPU's integrated graphics was no longer supported by Windows 10, and so his only option was to fight his desktop to keep it un-upgraded or else buy a basic graphics card that still had support.

Ultimately I'm happy that Microsoft chose to make the upgrade free of charge, but that didn't give them the right to force it upon everyone, since many people, like my dad, have very good reasons to not want to upgrade.

John McCann, Phones & Wearable UK Editor

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... Why? It still works. To be honest, I can't really remember what Windows 7 was like.

Windows 8 sounded like a car crash, so I'm happy I held off until 10 - although the fact it was free helped massively in my decision to upgrade.

Marc Chacksfield, Global Managing Editor

Any regrets? No, but…

Why? Well, it works for me. I'm not that enamored with it but it's not broken anything (so far) and I can do day to day tasks without fear the OS is going to betray me. But, it was a 'mare to upgrade - the free path didn't seem to work on my Lenovo and I ended up having to get a USB with Windows 10 on it to upgrade properly.

My family, on the other hand, HATE Windows 10. My wife's granddad was told he wouldn't be able to get it because Sony stopped supporting the OS on selected models - to be fair he is more than happy with Windows 7, but it's still annoying for him given this was an OS meant to be available to all.

And my mother in law got a new laptop with Windows 10 and hated it so much - something to do with its picture organisation and other niggles, and just not being as good as Windows 7 - that she's going to replace the laptop with an older model that has Windows 7 on it. And, yes, I sent her all the Windows 10 tips and tricks I could find on TechRadar, but nothing worked for her.

She did look into the possibility of downgrading the OS on the laptop she has but Microsoft has made it almost impossible to do this. It really really wants everyone on Windows 10, but hasn't really taken into consideration for many non-techy people having a brand-new OS pushed on to them is a big deal. I've seen first-hand the frustrations that can be caused when the learning curve is that bit too steep.

Matt Hanson, How To Editor

Any regrets? No….with reservations

Tell us more... I think Windows 10 is a big improvement over Windows 8.1, though that doesn't say much. I use Windows on a laptop and desktop PC, so with Windows 10 i no longer feel like I'm using a tablet OS that is awkwardly bolted onto a desktop operating system.

The return of the start menu is welcome, and it performs very fast, and reliably, on an SSD. However, I'm not too happy with the data collecting Windows 10 has been involved with, and i needed to turn off a number of settings before i was happy with Windows 10. Check out our how to fix Windows 10 privacy issues feature to find out more.

I also find it a bit distasteful how Microsoft has been forcing the upgrade on people. Windows 10 is a genuinely good OS, and I'd recommend people upgrade, especially while it's free. But if people want to stick with what they know, let them.

Cameron Faulkner, US Mobile Editor

Any regrets? No

Tell us more... I'm not a power user by any means. If I'm on the computer, I'm either playing games on Steam, using Photoshop, or browsing on Chrome. For my needs, Windows 10 doesn't stand in my way of doing these things.

That said, I have turned off basically every single marquee feature of the OS, reducing my experience to a very limited and resource-light shell of what most will run into with the upgrade. It's not that I hate Cortana - I just don't want it. And I like that Windows 10 lets me turn off the features that I don't have a use for.

Of course, for people hoping to run a slew of legacy programs, I can see how the upgrade might be worrying or cause compatibility issues. But I'm hopeful that the upcoming anniversary update will address any regrets that people might have.

http://www.techradar.com/us/news/software/operating-systems/techradar-s-writers-reflect-on-upgrading-to-windows-10-1325497?src=rss&attr=all

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Deploy a Read Only Domain Controller

Petri IT Knowledgebase Deploy a Read Only Domain Controller

In today's Ask the Admin, I'll show you how to deploy a Windows Server 2012 R2 Read Only Domain Controller (RODC).

Read Only Domain Controllers were introduced in Windows Server 2008 as a response to the security risks of placing DCs in branch office locations that lack the physical security of centralized datacenters. Hosting read-only copies of the Active Directory (AD) database partitions, SYSVOL folder, and optionally the DNS database, RODCs can limit the damage caused if the server is compromised. The AD database is replicated from a writeable DC to each RODC, but not vice versa, so even if an RODC is hacked, global changes cannot be made to Active Directory.

RODCs communicate with a writeable DC for user authentication because they don't store account credentials locally, although you can elect accounts to have their passwords cached on a RODC for fast logons, which is useful for regular users of a branch office network. To protect privileged AD accounts, there's also a deny list to prevent local password caching. Administrator role separation also gives local administrator access to an RODC but without any access to AD.

While RODCs provide several security advantages over writeable DCs, it's worth bearing in mind that not all applications are compatible with RODCs. So it's important to check that server applications are compatible and that you test thoroughly before deploying RODCs in a production environment.

Install an RODC

An RODC can't be the first domain controller in a domain, so you must have at least one writeable DC online. The good news is that the installation process doesn't differ much from installing a writeable DC, for which you can find the instructions in Add Windows Server 2012 as a Domain Controller on the Petri IT Knowledgebase.

I'm not going to outline the entire process here again, but just the differences when choosing to install an RODC.

Using Server Manager

After having installed the AD Directory Services bits, when promoting the server to a DC, make sure you check Read only domain controller (RODC) on the Domain Controller Options screen before proceeding.

Install a read only domain controller (RODC) using Server Manager (Image Credit: Russell Smith)

Once you've opted to install an RODC, you get an additional page with RODC-specific settings. On the RODC Options screen, you have the chance to nominate an account for local administrator access to this RODC only, something you can't achieve with a writeable DC, and decide which accounts can have their credentials cached locally for fast logins. There's a default list of accounts already added to the deny list, but you can add your own. Denies override allows.

Install a read only domain controller (RODC) using Server Manager (Image Credit: Russell Smith)

Then you continue to install the DC as normal.

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Using PowerShell

We need to set a few parameters before starting, including the NetBIOS name and fully qualified domain name (FQDN) for the existing AD domain, and the NTDS and SYSVOL paths.

$domain = 'AD'   $domainName = 'ad.contoso.com'   $NTDSpath = 'C:\Windows\NTDS'   $SYSVOLpath = 'C:\Windows\SYSVOL'

We'll use the Install-WindowsFeature cmdlet to install the ADDS bits along with the AD management tools. Finally, the Install-ADDSDomainController cmdlet is used to install the RODC. Note the ReadOnlyReplica parameter is set to true, which designates this DC as a RODC. You'll be prompted to enter the credentials for an account that has permission to add a DC to the domain, and to provide and confirm a Directory Services Restore Mode (DSRM) password.

Install-WindowsFeature –Name AD-Domain-Services -includemanagementtools    Install-ADDSDomainController -Credential (Get-Credential) -CriticalReplicationOnly:$false -DomainName $domainName -InstallDNS:$true -LogPath $NTDSpath -DatabasePath $NTDSpath -ReadOnlyReplica:$true -SiteName "Default-First-Site-Name" -SYSVOLPath $SYSVOLpath -Force:$true

Optionally you can add the -AllowPasswordReplicationAccountName and -DenyPasswordReplicationAccountName parameters to specify accounts to be added to the allow and deny password caching policy lists. Also the -DelegatedAdministratorAccountName parameter allows you to specify an account that will be delegated local administrator rights to this RODC only.

Running the Install-ADDSDomainController cmdlet

-DenyPasswordReplicationAccountName @("BUILTIN\Administrators", "BUILTIN\Server Operators", "BUILTIN\Backup Operators", "BUILTIN\Account Operators", "AD\Denied RODC Password Replication Group")

If you exclude the -AllowPasswordReplicationAccountName and -DenyPasswordReplicationAccountName parameters from the cmdlet, the default settings will be used.

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In this article, I explained the differences between RODCs and DCs, and how to install an RODC using Server Manager and Windows PowerShell.

 

 

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Mac help and support

TechRadar: All latest feeds Mac help and support

Mac help and support: Getting started

Macs are fantastic devices that can help us in our day-to-day lives, but things can go wrong, which is why we've put together this Mac help and support guide, which will help you fix your Mac problems.

In this Mac help and support guide we show you the basics of using a Mac, from setting up a new Mac or MacBook, to personalising it and a whole lot more.

We also look at more advanced Mac tips and tricks, as well as showing you how to fix common problems that your Mac may encounter.

So if you've got a Mac running OS X, or you're planning to get a Mac in time for the new macOS Sierra software, this Mac help and advice guide will tell you everything you need to know.

Mac help and support: Getting started

If you've just got a Mac, or you're new to Macs and the Apple way of doing things, then this section of our Mac help and support guide will show you how to get your Mac up and running.

How to set up a new Mac

Getting a brand new Mac is exciting, but before you dive in there are some steps that you need to go through to make sure that your Mac or MacBook is set up correctly.

In our how to set up a new Mac guide, we take you through these steps, which include creating accounts, migrating data from your old machine (either a Windows PC or another Mac), connecting to your home network, and much more.

How to change the look of your Mac

With your new Mac now up and running, you'll probably want to customise it to suit your tastes. Our how to change the look of your Mac guide shows you how to get your Mac looking just the way you want it to.

How to master Bluetooth on your Mac

You probably have a number of Bluetooth devices already, and these can be easily connected to your Mac or MacBook.

From phones, headsets, speakers and even printers, connecting devices via Bluetooth to your Mac is convenient and easy. To find out more, visit our guide on how to master Bluetooth on your Mac.

How to secure your mac

Securing your Mac is essential if you want to make sure your important data and personal information remains safe, especially if you have a portable MacBook that could all too easily be lost or stolen.

In our how to secure your Mac guide, we give you all the help and support you need to ensure that your Mac is completely locked down.

How to boost your MacBook's battery life

When working on your MacBook your battery should last the best part of a day, but there can always be a time when you need just that little bit more battery power when working.

If that's the case, then make sure you read our guide on how to improve your MacBook's battery, which gives you advice on how to keep your MacBook charged for longer.

The ultimate guide to backing up your Mac

With your Mac or MacBook all set up and ready, you'll now want to make sure you have a robust backup plan in place. This means that should the worst happen, and your Mac becomes unusable, you'll still be able to retrieve your important files.

There are a number of ways to back up your Mac, so check out our ultimate guide to backing up your Mac to find out which way works best for you.

Mac help and support: productivity tips

Now that you've set up your Mac you can use these help and support guides to make both you and your Mac more productive. We've got tips on speeding up your Mac, backing up contacts and many more useful guides.

How to speed up your Mac

A new Mac is pretty quick, but over time it inevitably starts to slow, as most PCs do. Before you get too frustrated with a slow Mac, or even begin shopping around for a new one, our help and support guide on how to speed up your Mac should be your first port of call.

We go through a range of tips and tricks to get your Mac working fast again, from simple solutions such as emptying your Trash to much more in depth fixes.

How to maintain your Mac's storage

To keep your Mac running quickly and securely, it's essential that you maintain your Mac's storage. In our how to maintain your Mac's storage guide we'll show you everything you need to know about keeping the hard drive, and the files you store on it, in good working order.

How to use multi-touch gestures on your Mac

If you're not using multi-touch gestures on your Mac, then you're not using it to its full potential. These gestures take a lot of cues from the multi-touch gestures we use on our iPhones and iPads – and you can use them with your Mac and MacBook as well.

We show you how in our how to use multi-touch gestures on your Mac guide.

How to rename your Mac

If you want to change the name of your Mac so that it's easier to identify on your network, then head over to our how to rename your Mac guide to see how it's done.

How to forward calls and texts to your Mac

One of the coolest features for Mac owners who also own iPhones is the ability to forward calls and texts from your phone to your Mac.

This feature, known as Continuity, means you don't have to scramble around looking for your iPhone when you get a call – and there's some other neat features as well.

Visit our how to forward calls and texts to your Mac guide to find out how to make the most of this feature.

How to use Smart Contacts on a Mac

There's a lot of cool things you can do with your Mac to make your life easier, and one of those things is by creating Smart Groups for your contacts.

It makes keeping track of friends, family and work colleagues easy and intuitive, and we show you how to get started with our guide on how to use Smart Contacts on a Mac.

How to use Windows 10 on a Mac

It might seem crazy to use Windows 10 on your Mac, but there's a number of games and apps that are still tied to Microsoft's OS. Rather than buying a PC to go alongside your Mac, you can easily use Windows 10 on your Mac.

There's two ways to do this, and we go through both in our how to use Windows 10 on a Mac guide.

How to use emoji easily on Mac

Give your iMessages and social network posts some flair by using emoji icons to convey how you're feeling.

Our how to use emoji easily on Mac guide shows you all you need to know.

How to find lost files on a Mac

If your hard drive is full of files it can be difficult to find what you need quickly and easily. In this essential help and support guide, we'll show you how to find lost files on a Mac with the minimum of fuss.

How to secure your Mac with your fingerprint and MacID

Fancy making your Mac even more secure? With this handy guide we show you how you can lock and unlock your Mac by using your fingerprint.

All you need is an iPhone or iPad with the Touch ID fingerprint sensor. It's quick, easy and above all totally secure.

Find out more with our how to secure your Mac with your fingerprint and MacID help and support guide.

How to format a hard drive on a Mac

If you need to format a hard drive in your Mac, then check out our guide on the subject, which takes you through all the steps to safely and securely wipe a hard drive without putting important data on other drives at risk.

OS X El Capitan tips and tricks

If you're after other ways to make the most of your Mac, then make sure you check out our collection of OS X El Capitan tips and tricks.

We'll show you all kinds of cool and useful things you can do with your Mac with these excellent tips.

Mac help and support: Fixing problems

For most of the time your Mac should run perfectly, but there may be occasions when you encounter a problem.

Don't panic if your Mac stops working correctly – we've got a range of help and support guides that will allow you to identify and fix almost any problem.

How to fix a Mac that won't start

It's never nice when you turn on a Mac and find it won't start. It doesn't mean it's completely broken, however, and in our how to fix a Mac that won't start guide, we'll take you through the process of troubleshooting your Mac, then fixing the problem.

How to fix Mac boot-up problems in Recovery Mode

If you need to repair a Mac that won't boot in Recovery mode, then make sure you check out our help and support article on how to fix Mac boot-up problems in Recovery Mode, which will guide you through the process.

How to fix Bluetooth problems on Mac

Pairing Bluetooth devices to your Mac or MacBook should be relatively painless, but if something does go wrong and the Bluetooth gadget does not work the way it should, then check out our guide on how to fix Bluetooth problems on Mac, which will help you identify the problem and fix it.

How to fix Mac desktop icons

Are the icons on your Mac's desktop not displaying correctly? It might not be the end of the world, but it's certainly annoying. Head over to our how to fix Mac desktop icons guide to find out how to solve this problem.

How to fix Mac network and internet problems

The internet is so important to our daily lives that when we lose connection, we can feel a bit helpless and lost.

To make sure this doesn't happen – or if it does happen, it doesn't last for long – check out our how to fix Mac network and internet problems guide. You'll be back to happily Googling in no time.

How to fix Mac OS X annoyances

Macs are great, but they're not perfect. In our how to fix Mac OS X annoyances guide we look at how you can fix some of the most common complaints we have with our Macs and MacBooks.

http://www.techradar.com/us/how-to/computing/mac-help-and-support-1325117?src=rss&attr=all

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