Microsoft is releasing a large update for Windows 10, which they have dubbed the “Anniversary Update.” There is no official release date at the time of this writing, but it is expected this summer, near the one year anniversary of Windows 10’s release. This update promises dozens of changes to Windows, some behind the scenes and some front-and-center. Let’s take a look at the three changes that will be significant for Realtors.
Additional Security with Windows Defender
Virus, Malware, Adware…. These issues are among the top reasons Realtors call Tech Helpline, so we know additional security will be beneficial.
Although viruses, malware, adware plague Windows users, historically it has always been a bad idea to run more than one anti-virus at the same time. For example, having both Norton and McAfee on the same computer leaves you just as vulnerable as having no anti-virus at all. But no single anti-virus is perfect enough to catch everything, so having a second line of defense, such as anti-malware software, helps keep you safe without causing issues. With the Anniversary Update, the built-in Windows Defender can be set up as a “second opinion” anti-virus that won’t interfere with your main protection.
To enable Windows Defender as a second anti-virus, you will need to go to your Start Menu (in the bottom-left corner of your screen) and click “Settings.” From there, click “Update & Security,” then “Windows Defender.” If you have an anti-virus other than Windows Defender installed you will see an option called “Periodic Scanning.” Once that is enabled, you will have even more protection against malicious software! Please note that this option won’t appear if you don’t have an anti-virus beside Windows Defender installed.
Windows Update is Less Intrusive
One of the complaints we hear from Windows users is about the constant reminder to install the latest updates every few weeks. If the warnings are ignored, your computer can unexpectedly restart itself to install the updates – while you’re using the computer – costing you time and patience. With the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, you will be able to set “active hours” during which Windows will avoid updating.
You will be able to set your active hours by going to your Start Menu (in the bottom-left corner of your screen) and click “Settings.” From there, click “Update & Security,” then “Windows Update.” At the bottom of the screen, click on “Change active hours” to set the time when you are likely to use the computer. No more Windows Update woes!
Cortana (Search Assistant) Upgrade
It seems like everyone has a digital assistant these days. Apple iPhone users have Siri, Amazon users have Alexa, Windows 10 users have Cortana, and they are all trying to out-perform each other. Until now, Cortana has had limited use for most people. With the Windows 10 Anniversary Update, Cortana is learning a lot of new tricks.
Cortana will be able to communicate with Android phones in order to show your phone notifications on the computer, as well as sending text messages right from your desktop. To enable those features, you will need to make sure you have the Cortana app installed on your Android or Windows phone (sorry iPhone users, it’s not compatible with iOS).
Cortana has always been able to listen to commands – any computer with a microphone enabled you to talk to ‘her’– but now Cortana can now understand more of what you’re saying. For example, you can tell Cortana to “Send Chuck the PowerPoint I worked on last night” and she will understand which file you mean, which contact you mean, and can send it by email. Cortana can also be used to set reminders, schedule appointments, and will notify you if any appointments conflict. This will be very handy to help you juggle your busy schedule.
And Then Some
There are dozens of new features, from an improved lock screen, to more powerful battery controls, to improved and more robust security options; the Windows 10 Anniversary Update promises to make an already great operating system even better. You can read about them here, or watch them here.
Not a Windows 10 user yet?
Just a reminder that the free Windows 10 upgrade offer ends July 29, 2016. Upgrade for free.
Remember: Tech Support is a Member Benefit
If you have any questions or need assistance changing to Windows 10, you reach out to your friendly Tech Helpline team. There is no additional cost to you because it is an included member benefit.
Contributions to this article were made by Charley Englert, Tech Helpline Team
