Does this have the operating system that will not need to be backed up? In other words, am I good to go for the next few years?
172361
This laptop DOES comes with Windows 8 and that is one of the newest operating system. Yes you WILL have to make recovery media if you would like to have a physically copy of it. There is a make recovery media application on the laptop to do that.
172362
Oh yea, you'll be good to go for some time. Check the Microsoft site to be sure but according to ZDNET mainstream support for windows 8.1 ends on January 9, 2018 and extended support ends on January 10, 2023. This laptop comes with the Windows 8 operating system pre installed, no CD/DVD,(you can upgrade to Windows 8.1 for free) but gives you the opportunity to make a backup/restore disk set so that if, heaven forbid, something should happen to the hard drive you can reinstall the operating system. This backup/restore disk set that you can make is specific to that particular laptop, meaning you can't use the backup/restore disks on a different pc be it a laptop or desktop. It's a good idea to make the backup/restore disk set because otherwise you'll have to dish out $100 or so for a new OEM Windows 8 disk. Hope this helps :)
1593955
Cindy, I highly recommend that a computer store or "computer IT type individual" do the initial required backup- which my computer refused to do- and do all the installations for you. (like Microsoft or a different anti-virus program if you wanted it). It has been a nightmare for me and I've used them 16+ yrs., but w/ IT at work doing the hard stuff! Once you have everything installed it will be great. I'd recommend taking classes if you are totally new to computers. I bought this Acer with Windows 7 because no one I know likes W8. I hear the windows 9 should be better.
1985953
If you mean 10.9 then I'm afraid not. It can't move past its current OS due to it's hardware limitations.
645316
Sure, but if you already have this machine, you might trying setting up a Win8 VM on it. That would allow you to keep your installation reasonably virgin, and minimize the risks of changing the OS and bungling it all up.
794798
Hi, yes it is a very reliable backup drive, I would get a backup program like novastor which is very good and back up your whole computer. Take care any question just ask me
459309
Sorry do not play any games on this machine - been a great workhorse for me though, no issues 18 months into owning it. Love the battery life, graphics, speed. Bought it one year after model was discontinued - good for the price. Like the touch screen, hate Windows 8.
1600661
I have had the drive as my main operating system, as well as mass storage drive for almost a year, and so far, it has been reliable, fast, and quiet. However, as the previous person responded, I am using Linux, which does put less stress on the drive and the file system is a bit better at file allocation, ETC...My experience is very positive in this environment. (Using the 3TB version partitioned into three sections)
560837
As a family computer it would be fine. As long as you like windows 8 downgrading this system to windows 7 is a bit more complicated than a standees system, and very little expiation options.
639797
yes...this is an excellent computer. I went so far as to replace the OS with linux and downloaded a ton of music, videos, & apps & updated as required....just looked at the previous response, suggest installing Xubuntu instead of Ubuntu due to slim resources on this unit.
1667816
Yes. It is a full standalone operating system that will replace xp. Download the newest version at linuxmint dot com and donate to the project if you like it!
1481696
Pete is absolutely wrong. YES you can upgrade the operating system. You will have to back up all of your data that you do not want to loose. You will have to create a bootable install disk or USB. You can even install windows on the system if you like, which is what I would do.
1922821
It is good working order and I have not had any problems. Only problem, XP is now out. Recommend you get a Windows 7 unit.
1599665
Windows 7 is the operating system out of the box. You don't need to do anything.
642600
You must upgrade online. Not a big deal but requires Microsoft operating system.
657735
Yes... I am on 7. I just use it to save critical files on. Don't fully understand the "back-up" software that is supplied with it.
2030280
I'd consider doing a dual boot just in case the second OS doesn't take properly.
485089
The Window 7 starter operating system is already bundled on the hard-drive. No further purchase is needed, but note that the OS is limited in a number of options but just fine for the averge user.