Consider your needs and the updates available before deciding.
Consider your needs and the updates available before deciding.
I've been cautious about Windows 10 because of privacy issues when it launched. Is the situation still problematic? Are there ways to improve the experience? Also, since you have a Ryzen 5, Windows 8.1 isn't supported anymore for it.
Win8.1 was the beginning of Win10, which is better. Sacrificing privacy is common now. Google already understands you better than you. Just turn off or disable it in settings, and after installing Win10, your privacy will be similar to what you had with Win8.1—essentially none. By then, Win10 is just a much improved operating system.
You can turn off many of the data collection features, though not all. Avoid using a Microsoft account for login.
Yes, Windows 8.1 isn't much better for privacy. A lot of tracking data was added via updates from some time ago.
If you need assistance, you can disable most options while retaining about 80% of the basic telemetry. This varies by perspective—it relies on user activity to improve Cortana’s AI. Google does the same with their services. Recapture provides labeled data for its AI, regardless of whether you care about apple or google. Both iOS and Android report usage metrics to their companies. Most programs prompt you to enhance them at launch, though Microsoft’s approach tends to spark more backlash.
Privacy remained largely the same across Windows 8.x and Windows 10. The main shifts were clearer presentation of choices, straightforward language in the privacy policy, and Windows 10 gaining widespread acceptance. This sparked many clickbait pieces, as people reacted to the changes. Microsoft's oversight was not providing full transparency due to simplifying the text, but later they published a detailed privacy statement at https://privacy.microsoft.com/en-ca/privacystatement. This helped ease concerns, showing that no personal data was transmitted and clarifying how services like OneDrive function. Review the privacy policy if you wish, and consider upgrading to Windows 10 if you're comfortable. If you previously downloaded the Windows 10 installer, your copy was likely already reserved, allowing a free upgrade. Before upgrading, ensure all drivers—chipset, networking, audio—are fully updated. It’s advisable to remove existing security software temporarily during the upgrade, except Windows Defender. For a clean installation, configure your system properly (UEFI enabled, CSM off, Secure Boot active). Install Windows 10 normally. If the setup fails to locate your drive, it may be missing SATA controller drivers; insert your motherboard disk, select the correct .inf file via the blue "Load Drivers" link, and Windows should detect it. You’ll need a product key for activation. You can enter your Windows 8 key, which won’t work on Windows 10, but you can proceed with the correct key. After installation, navigate to Start > Settings (gear) > Update & Security > Activation to enter the activation field. Insert your Windows 8 key, and it should activate. If issues persist, consider phone activation for assistance. After setup, check for updates, install any missing drivers, and confirm you have the latest versions. Privacy settings will appear during the first launch, explaining each option clearly.
It's not just about privacy concerns. The real problem is they stop verifying their updates as reliable as before. Be cautious with major Windows 10 releases, such as the developers' updates. Always save your crucial files before proceeding. Avoid doing an in-place upgrade, reformatting, and reinstalling.