GEEK FREE
By Joe Callison
9 April, 2017
What is the Creators Update?
Windows 10 undergoes major updates introducing new features once or twice a year. On April 11, 2017 the next major update that will begin rolling out is called the Creators Update because of several new features planned to enhance the creative capabilities of the operating system. Unfortunately many of the planned new features are not ready to be released, so the update will not be as significant as first expected. It is still a major update in that it completely replaces your existing version of Windows 10.
See the following link for a description of the features that made the update, with screenshots:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/3157039/windows/the-windows-10-creators-updates-best-new-features-dynamic-lock-game-mode-privacy-tweaks-and-more.html#slide1
How do I get the Creators Update?
Microsoft began allowing users to manually initiate downloading the update on April 5 for those who do not want to wait for the automatic update and are willing to take more risk of encountering problems:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10
The automatic update goes through a pilot rollout over a four month period starting on April 11, beginning with the newest computers that should have the greatest compatibility and least risk of problems and then progressing eventually to older computers that have been upgraded from older Windows versions and may have more risk of encountering problems. Problems encountered during the pilot rollout will be patched with further ongoing updates, so that by the end of four months, most of the known bugs and compatibility issues will have been resolved (hopefully). If you have a newer computer that came with Windows 10 installed originally, you will probably see the automatic update on your computer ready to install soon after April 11. On or after that date you can also choose to download the ISO image of the Windows installation file or create DVD or USB installation media.
Should I Delay Installing the Update?
When Microsoft determines it is time to automatically update your computer, the risk of running into problems with the installation should be relatively low. With any major update of the operating system such as the Creators Update, it is always a good idea to at least backup your important files before proceeding with the installation. If you have non-Windows programs installed it would also be wise to make a system image backup before proceeding with the installation unless you know for certain you have access to installation media and any required licenses for the programs in case you need to reinstall them. See the following links for other things to consider before deciding to update:
https://www.yahoo.com/tech/everything-know-installing-windows-10-creators-130003960.html
https://betanews.com/2017/04/07/dont-rush-to-install-windows-10-creators-update/
What if I Encounter Problems with the Creators Update?
Windows 10 allows you to roll back to the previous version using Recovery if you need to for a period of time (30 days for past updates we have seen) before it automatically deletes the “windows.old” folder that contains your previous installation. There are also tips available from other users who have encountered problems, such as those in the following link:
http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/windows-creators-update-problems-fixes/
