Professional Purchase Advice

Help Selecting Software & Hardware

Computer hardware and software troubleshooting services

When your hardware or software is inadequate to the demands placed on it you must choose new products that meet present and future requirements without devastating your budget. I can help you to maximize your investment.

While nobody can avoid the incredible pace of changing computer technology, you'll want the products that enable you to accomplish your goals today while maintaining flexibility for future expansion.

Do You Need the Upgrade?

Windows has improved significantly over the various generations. Many Windows XP users have very stable systems not requiring an upgrade.

Do you really need to have the Aero transparency offered with Vista and Windows 7? While some of the features in Windows 7 are nice, few are going to radically increase productivity for most users.

Does Your Computer Support an Upgrade?

A Windows 7 upgrade is generally not recommended unless you are purchasing a new system. An upgrade to Windows 7 is easier from Vista than from XP. In my opinion, there is no compelling reason for most users to upgrade to Windows 7 from XP except when purchasing a new computer.

If you do wish to upgrade Windows on your current computer you should check the Windows hardware requirements before you purchase the upgrade.

Staying "Green"

One of the ways to help reduce waste is to purchase computer hardware with a longer lifespan. Cheaper computers seldom save you money in the long term and tend to become obsolete sooner whereas investing in better hardware can allow more latitude in less expensive future upgrade options.

There's more information about recycling options for computers on these Victoria sites:

64-bit Systems — Advantages & Disadvantages

Purchasing new hardware will allow you to take advantage of the newer hardware and move to a 64-bit platform (most XP systems and many Vista systems are 32-bit). This can be an advantage for those using memory intensive applications like Photoshop.

However, even though most of today's hardware is 64-bit, you'll find that many of your older peripherals (printers, scanners, etc.) may not have 64-bit drivers and you may need to replace them after upgrading your computer or operating system and certain features may be impaired.

Newer Internet Software Stresses Older Computers

Older computer systems will be stressed more and more as newer software is installed on them. New applications often use technology that may not have been available on older operating systems. This includes upgrades and patches to the Windows (or other operating systems) and Internet software such as browsers and email programs.

Windows Life-cycle of Support

Microsoft has a stated support life-cycle policy which means they will cease to support a particular version of Windows or Internet Explorer within a predictable time period after its release.

You can learn more on the Windows Resources page.

Obsolete Operating Systems are Dangerous

Computers with expired support are not safe for connection to the Internet because companies don't release updates so they're vulnerabilities are no longer patched. As well, hardware support is often spotty.

Newer versions of Windows will probably require new hardware so it is recommended that you look at alternatives like Linux Ubuntu if you wish to continue to use legacy hardware.

Other Operating Systems

Linux

Linux also has its own special requirements but runs on the same hardware as Windows. You can generally get Linux to run well even on a legacy computer, but a new system will be faster and support more hardware.

While earlier Linux versions were not quite as polished as the equivalent Windows system, this has changed in recent years. As well, Linux is tops for stability and security — features that are particularly weak in Windows.

There have been massive improvements in this operating system including support for most modern hardware. The installation has also become much easier as well as better documented and much of the software you'll need will already be installed or easily added if you are using Ubuntu.

Macintosh

Macintosh has enjoyed a surge in popularity as people tire of the security issues plaguing Windows and became familiar with other Apple products like the iPhone and iPad.

Apple controls both the hardware and the operating system, making it easier to ensure that things run smoothly. Updates are transparent and security is less of an issue (there are more problems than in previous years) but upgrading or adding features to older computers can be expensive or impossible.

Multiple Operating Systems on One Computer

If you are thinking of having multiple operating systems on one computer or sharing components it makes sense to check the compatibility first. Sometimes drivers (software that makes your computer hardware work) are just not available or updates are released more slowly for alternative operating systems.

Running multiple operating systems can be more challenging but can provide alternatives without the expense of more than one computer. Dual-booting Windows for games (the reason most often cited for retaining Windows) and Linux for security while running business applications can give you the best of both worlds.

Hardware & Software Installations

I can help the process upgrading both hardware and software. I am familiar with the pitfalls of installations and how to prepare for them. I also know how to recover if something goes wrong.

I don't build or sell computer systems or software, but I can help you make the right choices of what and where to buy. I can also put everything together in your home or office so that you are up and running quickly and smoothly. I also maintain relationships with various vendors to ensure prompt resolution of any problems you may encounter.

I Can Help

If you are looking to upgrade your software or hardware contact me for assistance.

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www.russharvey.bc.ca/upgrades.html
Updated: January 24, 2012