Buzzwords and jargon are rampant in every industry, but seem to be most confusing when it comes to technology. Computer and “geek” lingo isn’t for everyone and can lead the average — or even above average — computer user to wash their hands of a technical advancement that they might otherwise benefit from.
How can we truly hail the victory of new technology if it fails to connect with everyday people? The goal should be to elevate our entire society, teaching and helping as many as possible.
Windows 10 is the latest craze. Its recent launch has the tech world exploding with facts and opinions, however, here is all you need to know, minus the jargon (well, minus most of it):
The start menu controversy
When Windows 8 launched without a start menu the masses revolted. The change was so drastic that many chose not to make the switch, instead opting to stay with the comfort of Windows 7. Windows 8 was made to help apps get more exposure and take center stage. Windows 10 brought back the start menu, but the focus remains heavily on app developers. Apps are preloaded and pre-organized and are viewed as tiles rather than in the simple list of programs in Windows 7. The start menu is there, but it’s not prevalent and you may feel the brunt of this app-focused layout.
The search bar is frustrating
Windows 8 and earlier allowed users to search their files — a simple but highly useful tool. Windows 10 has fixed what wasn’t broken. The new operating system combines the search function with an Internet search, producing Internet results as well as computer files. Unfortunately, this update is unavoidable.
Faster, faster, faster thanks to Direct X12
Windows 10 is significantly more powerful, thanks to the long-awaited breakthrough to Direct X12, an other-worldly sounding tech advancement that really just means information can flow through your computer much faster. It’s like going from passing water through a straw to a fire hose. The change is pretty drastic; Stardock’s video game development team is reporting a performance boost of 80 to 300 percent.
You might not need a new computer as soon as you thought
The performance enhancements with Windows 10 will be felt more significantly on older, slower computers. Direct X12 allows those older machines to unclog and communicate easier and more freely, torching the misconception that older PCs can’t handle the new system. Your older computer might run quicker than it has in months, making it feel new again.
Better for the environment and your wallet
The fast information flowing with Direct X12 means computers don’t have to work as hard. This is great news for laptop users, from video game players to business travelers, who rely on longer battery power. It’s also a meaningful step forward for the power grid and consumers’ utility bills.
Change doesn’t have to be hard
With Windows 10 comes greater power, more pleasing colors, and an arguably more fun layout, but it’s a big change from Windows 7, and a smaller but still-significant change from Windows 8. For those users who are less comfortable with all the changes of Windows 10, and for the techies looking to maximize their experience, there are countless apps available to make the change smoother. Stardock just launched Start10, an app that allows Windows 10 users to mimic Windows 7 and take back control of their start menu.
Brad Wardell is the founder and CEO of Stardock, a video game and software development corporation in Plymouth Township.
