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Windows XP Migration For Dummies,® Dell Special EditionPublished by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River St. Hoboken, NJ 07030-5774 www.wiley.com

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey

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Table of ContentsIntroduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

About This Book ........................................................................ 1Foolish Assumptions ................................................................. 1Icons Used in This Book ............................................................ 2Beyond the Book ........................................................................ 2

Chapter 1: Saying Hello to a New Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Closing Microsoft Support for Windows XP ........................... 3The Costs of Not Upgrading ..................................................... 5Pushing Back on Resistance ..................................................... 8

Chapter 2: Opening Your New Windows . . . . . . . . . . . .11Making the Short Jump to Windows 7 ................................... 11Touching Base with Windows 8.1 .......................................... 16

Chapter 3: Getting from Windows XP to the Future of Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Evaluating Your Current Technology Needs ........................ 19Designing Your New System ................................................... 22Executing Your Plans............................................................... 26

Chapter 4: Ten Reasons to Choose Dell for Your Migration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Provides Tools for Deploying New Software and Hardware ....................................................................... 29

Reduces PC Deployment Costs .............................................. 30Handles a Migration Process from Any Point ...................... 30Compatibility Tests for All New Devices and Apps ............. 30Automation Speeds Up the Deployment Process ................ 30Standardises Your Operating Environment ......................... 31Handles Upgrades, Logistics and Relocation ....................... 31Frees Your IT Resources ......................................................... 31Saves Money ............................................................................. 32Gives You Flexible and Functional Options .......................... 32


Publisher’s AcknowledgmentsWe’re proud of this book and of the people who worked on it. For details on how to create a custom For Dummies book for your business or organization, contact [email protected] or visit www.wiley.com/go/custompub. For details on licensing the For Dummies brand for products or services, contact BrandedRights&[email protected].

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Acquisitions, Editorial, and Vertical Websites

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Acquisitions Editor: Steve Hayes

Editorial Manager: Rev Mengle

Business Development Representative: Kimberley Schumacker

Custom Publishing Project Specialist: Michael Sullivan


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Introduction

W hen 8 April 2014 rolls around, any computers you have that are currently running the Windows XP operating

system or Microsoft Office 2003 Service Pack 3 will no longer receive support from Microsoft. Maybe that doesn’t sound major, but at that point, Windows XP will no longer receive bug fixes, security updates or other support.

Don’t think that Microsoft is turning its back on XP and abandoning customers who remain on the platform. Instead, the company is celebrating the success of XP and realising that it’s time to help customers move to modern platforms and enjoy a new era in technology and productivity. Sounds exciting, right?

About This BookThis book helps you learn why migration of your software and hardware from Windows XP to a more modern platform will help your business. You will discover how to assess your needs, create your migration plan and execute your plan successfully. You will also find out how Dell can make the process even speedier and more cost-effective over the long haul (and can also future-proof your system for a few years).

Foolish AssumptionsI’m assuming you’re at least familiar with basic computer knowledge (something above and beyond finding out where the power button is) but you definitely don’t have to have a PhD in computer science. Furthermore, I’m guessing that you have at least a passing familiarity with the life cycle of computers and know that, eventually, every piece of hardware and software comes to the end of its useful life. This is a hard and cold fact, but nevertheless it is a concept that you have to deal with.


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 2

Icons Used in This BookYou’ll see several different icons sprinkled around the book. These helpful images call your attention to different types of information, so pay attention to them.

This icon reinforces an important piece of information in the book. When you see this icon, it means that the text contains important information you should keep in mind.

This little bit of information adds some flavour to the existing text. Here you get information that may help you save time, money and maybe a big headache.

This icon is really important. You could face additional problems or challenges if you ignore this information, so pay close attention when you see this.

This book covers some technical topics, but this icon digs a little deeper into that technical knowledge. If the techie info isn’t for you, you may skip this information and your knowledge of the migration won’t be affected.

Beyond the BookFor more sources and links on this topic (outside of the realm of what’s mentioned in this book), try scoping out some of these links:

✓ Dell home page for Windows Migration: www.dell.com/learn/us/en/555/windows-8?c=us&l=en&s=biz&cs=555

“Now Is the Time to Leave Windows XP Behind”: www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2Kh1fJyMcQ

✓ Dell Client Migration: http://uk.enterpriseefficiency.com/windows-client.asp

✓ Dell ChangeBASE: Helps you migrate cost-effectively: http://communities.quest.com/community/changebase


http://www.dell.com/learn/us/en/555/windows-8?c=us&l=en&s=biz&cs=555

http://www.dell.com/learn/us/en/555/windows-8?c=us&l=en&s=biz&cs=555

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2Kh1fJyMcQ

http://uk.enterpriseefficiency.com/windows-client.asp

http://uk.enterpriseefficiency.com/windows-client.asp

http://communities.quest.com/community/changebase


Chapter 1

Saying Hello to a New Operating System

In This Chapter▶ Understanding how the end of support affects your business

▶ Realising the cost of continued support

▶ Conquering resistance to upgrading to newer software

A t one time, Windows XP was the most dominant operating system in the world and many companies, both small and

large, still make use of it today. Windows XP had a wonderful 12-year run as a dominant operating system but time moves on. This chapter addresses the reasons to migrate from Windows XP and upgrade to a new operating system.

Closing Microsoft Support for Windows XP

The day that all support comes to an end for Windows XP and Microsoft Office 2003 SP3 is 8 April 2014 and, unlike certain other end-of-the-world prognosticators, this date is firm and unyielding. On this date, Microsoft will officially end technical support for the Windows XP operating system. It may seem a little cruel but this date signifies the time that Microsoft stops providing assistance to those who continue to use Windows XP on their computers. (Note: Microsoft will continue support for a period of time but at a high cost.) And the end of technical support doesn’t just mean that you can’t call or email for help anymore. The end of support means that a whole host of other activities stop as well.



No more security updatesAfter 8 April 2014, if you want support or security assistance, you’ll have to pay for it. To be fair, Windows XP became a wonderfully useful and solid operating system (especially after Service Pack 2), but there was never any shortage of potential threats during and after that time.

The newer Microsoft operating systems can better handle security challenges with new and improved protection tools, such as Windows Defender and BitLocker. You can better assist your users by giving them these new tools and technologies.

Windows XP became a solid and useful operating system because it received regular attention and fixes from Microsoft. When this support ends, Windows XP no longer receives that attention. That means Windows XP (and any computer using it) becomes extremely vulnerable to any new exploits or malware. Hackers are already writing virus applications to take effect after 8 April 2014, knowing that it will be easy to create havoc in companies running XP.

No more hotfix or paid per-incident support servicesThe deadline also means that you’ll no longer have the option of contacting Microsoft to get support under the normal support agreement. Everything support-related shifts to a custom agree-ment that can cost as much as $250 USD per computer per year. Multiply that by the number of computers you maintain in your office (and any others you have in the field) and your costs can skyrocket.

If you add in the fact that older laptops cost more than newer laptops in maintenance and lost productivity and then add the factor that this custom support won’t automatically offer free hotfixes or security updates (which are being discontinued altogether), you end up paying a lot of money for support that may not be able to meet your functional and security needs. This situation may not be cost-effective or sustainable, so consider the amount of money you could spend by not upgrading Windows XP.


Chapter 1: Saying Hello to a New Operating System 5

The Costs of Not UpgradingYou may think that keeping your hardware on Windows XP means you’ll save money by not buying new hardware or software. But in this section, you take a look at how much money you could be spending to maintain Windows XP, if you choose to keep it.

Real costs of maintenanceThe immediate loss of money should jump out at you. You don’t have to do many calculations to see how much custom support costs to keep your computers functional. And I’m not talking about investing in a classic car that you want to keep on the road, here. I’m talking about supporting an outmoded tool that will only give you diminishing returns as you continue to use it (I address this issue in the section “Hidden Costs”). You’re looking at $250 USD per computer per year for custom Microsoft support, if you choose to purchase that support. Of course, you pay nothing if you don’t get support, but that incurs a lot of extra costs down the road (again, I address these potential expenses in the section “Hidden Costs”).

After the $250 USD, you also need to take a look at the maintenance costs associated with Windows XP computers:

✓ IT staff salary and expenses

✓ Software patch management (nearly half of the operational cost)

✓ Time spent managing potential security threats and other work necessary to keeping your software up and running

✓ Money spent on support and maintenance that could be used for higher performing software and equipment

✓ Increased costs of working with lower performing, out-of-date PCs

The savings you think you’re making by keeping your old equipment pales in comparison to the real costs you lose in maintenance. It’s just not worth it – the numbers don’t add up.


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 6 According to the IDC, the annual cost per PC per year for

Windows XP is $870 USD, while a comparable Windows 7 installation costs $168 USD per PC per year. That’s an increase in cost of more than 80 percent. See Figure 1-1 for more information.

TABLE 1

Average Annual PC Maintenance and Support Cost

Period

Year 1Year 2Year 3Year 4Year 5Year 6

$229

Average Annual Cost

$282$450$661$837$860

Source: IDC, 2012

Figure 1-1: Older systems cost more money.

Hidden costsYou also tend to lose money every year in user productivity costs. You may not send a cheque directly to User Productivity Loss, LLC, every quarter, but the loss is still there. That’s a hidden cost. The hidden costs represent money you lose indirectly by not upgrading to newer software and hardware as part of a regular life cycle plan (usually every three to four years).

ProductivityWhen you don’t use current tools, as part of your operations, you lose money for several reasons. Of course, no matter what the reason, losing money isn’t a stellar proposition, but understanding how loss of productivity equals lost money helps you avoid the situation to begin with.

Older machines are more prone to downtime and other maintenance issues. Take away the Microsoft support for Windows XP, and your IT team has to spend more time researching and implementing solutions. That’s time that your system remains down, which means the rest of your staff can’t remain productive. Lost time, lost wages and lost opportunities can start adding up to quite a bit of money lost overall.


Chapter 1: Saying Hello to a New Operating System 7Loss of user productivity takes many forms:

✓ Virus or malware incidents rending a computer inoperable

✓ Time spent restoring infected computers

✓ Time lost to multiple reboots

✓ Maintenance downtime

✓ Miscellaneous help desk issues

In total, upgrading Windows XP to a newer system (in this case, Windows 7) produced savings of 87 percent in terms of lost hours spent per PC per year. Every computer requires some downtime, but the upgraded systems save you a huge amount of time compared to your old system. Those savings are just too much to ignore.

The amount of total downtime you see per computer also decreases when you upgrade. Windows XP is a popular target for hackers, and potential vulnerabilities and strategies are now well known. Newer systems don’t present these hackers with the same opportunities, so you’ll see time savings in the form of less downtime for the issues mentioned as part of end-user lost time as well (to the tune of 83 percent less downtime that IT staff must deal with).

Windows XP doesn’t really affect hardware costs directly, although you should note that Windows XP can’t make full use of everything that newer technology has to offer. Whenever you have to buy new parts for your machines, you’re losing money by not making use of everything your new hardware has to offer.

Behind the timesYou simply can’t win if you’re using inferior tools. Newer computer systems run quicker and require less maintenance and downtime than older systems. You can’t buy new computers every day, obviously, but staying on older platforms for too long prevents you from realising your full potential.

For example, the typical Windows XP installation is simply incapable of using more than 2.5 GB of RAM as part of its operation. The 32-bit operating system means that you can’t take advantage of the newer technology (where 4- and 8-GB RAM


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 8installations aren’t uncommon). Upgrading to newer software and hardware means that you can make the most of your IT investment.

You also prevent your business from taking advantage of newer software written for it. As software and hardware progress, developers aren’t writing applications with older systems in mind. They’re writing to take advantage of the newest and latest products. Other software companies will also look to the newer platforms instead of supporting Windows XP, and you need to be in a position to take advantage of those new tools.

You can’t stream the latest content to a VHS or Beta video player. Don’t let your business systems become the functional equivalent of a VCR.

Pushing Back on ResistanceKnowing what can go wrong and what you need to do is one thing. Convincing others (especially those with direct access to the bank account) can be another matter. In this section, you look at the common arguments for not migrating and at how to counter those arguments.

Our Windows XP setup is stableYour Windows XP deployment may seem stable – for now. But that stability ends on 8 April 2014. Think of your current installation as a tightrope walker working above a net. That performer can do their best knowing that the safety net below works and that the tightrope has been properly set up and tested. Now, take that safety away; instead of working with a professional crew, the artist is working on an old rope over a canyon.

To bring the metaphor home, Microsoft provided the net and the professional setup. Windows XP remained stable and operational because of constant development and patching to keep it that way. The following list outlines the arguments against a supposedly stable Windows XP setup:

✓ Support for Windows XP comes at a higher cost.

✓ Microsoft won’t automatically distribute any new software patches or security fixes.


Chapter 1: Saying Hello to a New Operating System 9 ✓ Software that depends on Windows XP won’t receive the

same attention and support from their developers, either.

✓ This stability isn’t sustainable, and your company is better served by taking advantage of new tools and technologies.

We can’t upgrade to new hardwareInitial investments in new hardware can seem daunting, but the cold, hard truth is that you’re going to have to invest in new hardware at some point. Normal hardware life cycles run every three to four years and in most cases you can probably squeeze an extra year or so out of your computers. But hard drives will fail, screens will break and some salesperson will drop a laptop out in the field and require an entirely new machine as soon as possible to close the big deal that saves your company. You’re going to have to invest in new hardware eventually, so it might as well be at the same time as you upgrade the operating system to a supported version.

The initial upgrading investment pays for itself (and more) over the life of the equipment. The savings of investing in a new Windows machine versus retaining the Windows XP device is shown in Figure 1-2 for comparison.

Year1 2 3 4 5 6

Year Year Year Year Year Year1 2 3 4 5 6

Year Year Year Year Year

Win7 Life Cycle: One @ 6 Yrs Win7 Life Cycle: Two @ 3 Yrs

$-

$300

$600

$900

$1,200

$1,500

$1,800

$-

$300

$600

$900

$1,200

$1,500

$1,800

$5,162 Total or$860 Annually

$4,251 Total or$709 Annually

Managed Life-Cycle Mgmt PracticesAvg 18% Lower Cost per PC

Acquire Deploy Maintain Upgrade Retire Lst Pmt Deploy Maintain Upgrade Retire

Figure 1-2: An initial investment pays back a lot more over the average lifetime of the computer.



My applications might not workYou may have software that works well on Windows XP for now, but the future could be a little more uncertain. Perhaps your favourite product doesn’t have a clear upgrade path at the moment or your workflow is optimised just the way you like it. Unfortunately, this paradise won’t last forever. The fact that free Windows XP support and updates stop on 8 April 2014 means that support will probably end for your favourite piece of software as well. As much as you want to stay where you are, time (and software) moves on. You need to position yourself to account for future upgrades and changes, and not be forced to react as situations occur. In trying to maintain your current system, you might lose time and effort that could be better spent making sure you’re moving into the future in the best possible way.

Pair your efforts with a good plan to move forward. Don’t just tell your IT budget holder to find a better way; show him the research and map out that better way for him. Dell offers a compatibility tool to check whether your current software will operate on Windows 7 or 8. Check out the Dell ChangeBASE, which helps you migrate cost-effectively: http://communities.quest.com/community/changebase.

Members of my IT staff don’t have the timeThe argument that your IT staff doesn’t have the time is easy to dismiss. Remind your IT budget holder that IT could spend a little time upgrading your system now, or it could spend 83 percent more time down the road on the older systems. That’s almost the equivalent of an additional IT worker’s time and effort for every single IT employee you currently have. Frame the argument that way, and you stand a good chance of convincing everybody that you need to undertake the initial investment for the new software and hardware.




Chapter 2

Opening Your New Windows

In This Chapter▶ Providing better care and service

▶ Realising the benefits of your new Windows operating system

▶ Examining the new features in Windows 8.1

T his chapter takes a look at the benefits of moving your current software and hardware to the latest possible

offerings. While this chapter addresses both Windows 7 and the latest offering of Windows 8.1, you should always look at the best balance of software and hardware for your situation and remember that the more you upgrade now, the less you’ll have to upgrade as time goes on. For example, the new fourth generation of Intel processors provides wonderful new possibilities for Windows 7 and 8, but Windows XP can’t function on this new technology.

Making the Short Jump to Windows 7

From Windows XP, you don’t really have to make a big leap to get to Windows 7. The upgraded Windows 7 does contain some major feature upgrades over Windows XP, but the basic layout of Windows 7 is familiar enough for users to jump right in and, with a little help and encouragement, get down to work. This section identifies the benefits you gain by upgrading to Windows 7.



User benefitsUltimately, your users determine the effectiveness of your business. By giving them better and more stable tools, your users are can provide better work results with an upgrade. These results include

✓ Lighter and thinner hardware

✓ Better battery life

✓ Speedier processing

✓ More productive software

HardwareEverybody loves shiny new toys, but in this case, the toys actually help users to be more productive. And this productivity relates to the hardware included in the upgrade. Windows XP can’t take advantage of the new tools available as part of the upgrade, so look at these hardware benefits:

✓ Lighter and thinner: Most companies provide their users with laptops (such as Ultrabooks) or small-form-factor machines for their work efforts. Windows 7 technology allows you to shrink your machines from an average weight of just over 7 pounds to around 3 pounds. The new technology also means these machines are smaller and more portable, meaning your users don’t have to worry about taking their computers with them wherever they need to go.

✓ Longer and better battery life: For laptops, the battery life may mean the difference between a draft document and a finished product that gets the sale. Windows 7-powered laptops can double battery life from 2.5 hours to 5 or more hours, giving your users more time to do the work they need to do.

Several factors influence battery life, including the programs used and any network activity. But by and large, you can count on a huge boost in battery life with this new technology.

✓ Faster machines: Windows 7 machines take less time to wake up from sleep (according to Dell, they take 7 seconds as against 26 seconds for older machines). This statistic deals in seconds, but what if I say this represents a 66 percent reduction in sleep-related


Chapter 2: Opening Your New Windows 13downtime over the course of the Ultrabook’s life? Sounds a lot more significant now, doesn’t it? Other benefits of speed include easier desktop navigation, better search and faster web performance than Windows XP.

Dell offers a wide variety of devices, including the new Venue Pro Tablets, Latitude E7 Series Ultrabooks and the All in One PC Solutions featuring new fourth generation Intel Core processors and touch functionality. When using the new fourth generation processors, you experience an increase in performance.

SoftwareAside from noting that all software development now focuses on Windows 7 and 8, leaving Windows XP in the dust, you should note that upgrading means that your existing software will perform better for users and will increase productivity.

Windows 7 and 8 are built on a widely used platform that has withstood the many rigours and demands of professional use. Windows 8 also adds additional touch, security, search and productivity features to that tested platform.

The following statistics demonstrate how much time and effort you’ll save with the upgrade:

✓ 18 percent improvement in productivity for word processing software (such as Word)

✓ 16 percent improvement in productivity for presentation software (such as PowerPoint)

✓ 5 percent improvement in productivity for spreadsheet software (such as Excel)

✓ 80 percent reported increase in user flexibility when handling tasks

✓ 50 percent reported increase in user productivity

✓ 90 percent increase in multitasking speeds with third-generation Intel Core vPro processors compared with just the previous processor generation.

IT benefitsYou count on your IT team to keep everything running. By supporting this team, you improve the overall operations of your company.



CompatibilityIf you rely on software that only runs on Windows XP (which can be common in academic or scientific institutions), Windows 7 provides a Windows XP Mode that will allow these programming outliers to continue to function. While there are always exceptions, Windows XP Mode should help you keep everything up and running.

Upgrading to Windows 7 also means that you continue to receive updates to programs and hardware drivers that won’t be available to Windows XP users. Developers and hardware manufacturers will no longer include Windows XP in their upgrade plans, so compatibility becomes a big issue as you start to upgrade your hardware and peripheral devices. Windows 7 means that your IT department will be able to add anything users might need to complete their tasks without worrying about the possibility of having to upgrade an entire workstation versus a single device.

Better networkingWindows 7 allows IT workers to link different computers and devices more easily to networks and domains via tools like Domain Join. Dealing with Active Directory on Windows XP could sometimes be a nightmare, so better domain management tools save everybody a lot of time and effort when dealing with new or different computers on your corporate network.

Speaking of networks, Windows 7 also allows you to use Backup and Restore to manage your backup efforts. Backup and Restore permits you automatically to retain copies of individual files, folders or even entire drives, to ensure you never lose your important data.

Remote managementWindows 7 makes it easier to manage remote hardware, meaning that your IT staff no longer have to spend eight hours working with a user over the phone. The operating system and appropriate technology can even manage devices that are not even switched on or that have disabled operating systems. Try that with a Windows XP computer – you won’t have to try for long, because it simply won’t work at all.

With your upgrade, you can rely on automated processes to migrate Windows users, maintain the systems and manage your software licensing in ways Windows XP could never hope to manage.


Chapter 2: Opening Your New Windows 15

SecurityUpgrading to Windows 7 won’t just mean you’ll get the automatic security upgrades and updates no longer available to Windows XP (although, from a security perspective, that’s a good enough reason to upgrade). You’ll also get access to tools that let IT better secure your data and computers.

BitLocker (available in the Enterprise and Ultimate editions of Windows 7 and as standard with Windows 8) allows you to encrypt data in specific files, folders and drives. You can even encrypt easily portable devices like flash drives to ensure that you don’t lose information when somebody inevitably loses that drive on his way home.

One perpetual hassle for IT departments with Windows XP involved managing third-party virus and malware protection soft-ware. While there were many choices, you always encountered issues with installation and implementation. You were also at the mercy of said third parties to update virus definitions and ensure their products functioned adequately with Windows XP. The new tools available in Windows 7 integrate directly with the operating system and reduce the number of parties involved with maintaining the security of your system.

Take a look at the checklist for the new and improved security features that Windows 7 and 8 and the new Ultrabooks provide:

✓ Intel AES-NI encryption

✓ Intel Identity Protection Technologies

✓ Inter Secure Key

✓ Intel Anti-Theft Technology

✓ Secure boot via the Early Launch Anti-malware (ELAM) Driver

✓ Virtual Smart Card support

Use this opportunity for users to reduce administration rights without affecting their productivity or performance. This rights management helps you ensure the security of your overall network and allows you to maintain standardised device images to speed up the IT deployment and maintenance process.


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 16 Before any upgrade, consult your IT department to ensure

that you address all your security needs. Some fields may require more, or more specific types of security than others, and you want to make sure that you cover all your regulatory needs during your upgrade. Unsupported and unpatched software in environments is extremely vulnerable to security risks. This may result not only in financial loss but also in compliance in terms of management of customer information and records.

Touching Base with Windows 8.1

The same upgrade factors for Windows 7 (see the preceding section) apply to Windows 8.1:

✓ New and improved technology

✓ Better and faster performance

✓ More secure data and computers

However, you should note that Windows 8.1 is a huge departure from the type of operating system you’ve grown accustomed to with Windows XP or Windows 7. Windows 8.1 functions for both traditional computers and the newest generation of mobile devices (including tablets and phones) that allow your users to take technology with them where they haven’t been able to take it before (feel free to include your “boldly going where no man has gone before” Star Trek references here if you wish).

While the shock may be a little disconcerting initially, you’ll see that this operating system actually gives you a great deal of flexibility and allows you to use your technology in many different ways that you haven’t before:

✓ New and improved user interaction with the software

✓ Customisable boot options with your choice of user interface

✓ New automatic data backup features

✓ Access to cloud services like SkyDrive

✓ Improved file and application search


Chapter 2: Opening Your New Windows 17

Unique featuresWindows 8 introduces the concepts of apps to Windows, meaning that your interactions with the operating system now revolve around smaller programs integrated directly with the operating system (even if they were made by third-party developers and are available inside the Windows app store). Take a look at how these changes affect the operating system usage:

✓ Windows 8 introduced a radical new Start screen that users can easily personalise, giving preference to the most used applications. Windows 8 also allows users to decide how they want to work, maximising the touch experience on tablets and touch devices or using the mouse and keyboard on traditional laptops and desktops.

✓ Windows 8.1, which was launched in October 2013, offers users the ability to boot directly to the desktop. For on-the-go information grabbers, the Windows 8.1 Start screen fills the entire screen with large, colourful live tiles that update the user with the latest notifications such as calendar appointments, stock prices, weather, email, Facebook updates and other tidbits. That information appears before you touch a button. And touch is a keyword: The Start screen experience is maximised with a touchscreen monitor or tablet.

✓ The new automatic backup program in Windows 8/8.1 is File History, and it greatly simplifies what you should have been doing all along: creating copies of your important files for safekeeping.

✓ Microsoft’s online file storage service, SkyDrive, comes built into the Windows 8.1. When you first sign in to Windows 8.1, Microsoft asks if you want to store your files there automatically. SME customers find this hugely beneficial because it allows them to store and share files in a safe and secure environment.

✓ Improved search means that finding things is a lot easier in Windows 8.1 – whether you’re looking for files on your computer, apps in the Store or information on the Internet. Whether you’re using a touchscreen tablet, a laptop or a desktop PC, files and folders still rule the computing world. And unless you grasp the Windows folder metaphor, you may not find your information very easily.


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 18 To keep your programs and files neatly arranged,

Windows has cleaned up the squeaky old file cabinet metaphor with whisper-quiet Windows icons. Inside File Explorer, the icons represent your computer’s storage areas, allowing you to copy, move, rename or delete your files before the investigators arrive.

Incorporating touch devicesWindows 8.1 lets the device and the user dictate how they best interact with their programs and information. Whether your users work on a touch device or a traditional desktop, you can help them become more productive with whatever device they use. Windows 8.1 defaults to the Start screen that displays apps over the Desktop view (at least by default). Touch devices are here, and Windows 8.1 helps you to take full advantage of their effectiveness.

MobilityA Win 8 tablet, notebook or smartphone allows users to conduct business away from the traditional office environment. Users can quickly access apps and share information across the cloud to speed the business process along. Whether you’re dealing with roaming salespeople or field workers, or just reaching the executives in their retreats or strategic planning sessions, mobile touch technology allows you to increase the productivity and usability of your network.

Bring your own deviceAs with most toys, people have a preference for the tools they choose to use as part of their operations. And, given that a great many companies make technology that utilises the Windows 8.1 operating system, there are a lot of tools about which to form preferences. Upgrading to Windows 8.1 gives you a standardised platform that lets your users take advan-tage of integrating their own devices into your network. Your IT staff won’t need to worry about using incompatible soft-ware or dealing with security issues, and your users can interact with your network in their preferred manner. Everybody wins!


Chapter 3

Getting from Windows XP to the Future of Windows

In This Chapter▶ Assessing your current technology needs

▶ Designing the best possible new technology system

▶ Implementing the necessary steps to migrate

Y ou’re going to need a way to get all the information from your current system to the shiny, happy future of your

new technology. This chapter helps you create a plan by properly assessing your current system and what needs to change, then deciding what you need to implement and how you’re going to make it happen. Given the right plan, you should have your system ready and running with the minimum of upheaval.

Evaluating Your Current Technology Needs

Before you can get where you’re going, you need to know where you’re starting from. Now is the time to take a long, hard look at how you use your current stable of computers and other associated tools, like servers and printers. You’re not only looking at the tools themselves; you should also look at the work processes that use those tools and how you plan to use them in the future.


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 20 Don’t just plan for what you’re doing right now – plan for what

you want to be doing over the average technology lifespan of three to four years.

HardwareHardware encompasses every bit of technology you use as part of your operations, going far beyond just the desktop or laptop computer you use for the majority of your work. Take a look at the tools you should consider as part of the upgrade.

You’re not identifying solutions at this point – you’re just diagnosing any problems.

ProcessorsThe new fourth generation of Intel processors take full advan-tage of all the capabilities for Windows 7 and 8.1. Windows XP won’t work on these new processors, so you need to look at more current options for your hardware. Fourth generation Intel processors don’t support Window XP.

ComputersOkay, so desktops and laptops mean a great deal to your upgrade, and they’re certainly the main point of interface with your users. Now is the time to find out how your current systems function and where they fit into your business workflow. Think about where your current technology and processes cause problems or grief for your users.

Mobile devicesThe Windows XP platform never really addressed or played well with mobile devices, but you will need to know how any mobile devices you use function and how you can support that necessary functionality as part of the upgrade.

Bring your own deviceYou should also take a look at how bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies could affect your current technology setup. How many of your users currently use their own laptops, smartphones or tablets to access your business systems, and what expectations are you up against as part of the upgrade?


Chapter 3: Getting from Windows XP to the Future of Windows 21 The new capabilities of Windows 8.1 and the fourth generation

of Intel processors makes the process of working in a BYOD policy a lot easier for all involved. You can better manage your data, user accounts and security policies with this new technology.

Servers and networkYou will have new software and technology interfacing with your network and servers, so you’ll need to know how your current systems interface with your backend setup and whether the equipment and protocols adequately support more recent technological developments. After all, it doesn’t matter how fast your computers run if they’re still operating on a 2003-era wireless network and the servers don’t respond correctly.

PeripheralsWhile newer printers, scanners and similar devices should make the transition to a newer system without issue, some older devices might not come along for the ride. Depending on their technical support (or lack thereof), you may be out in the cold when it comes to supporting software or drivers. Take some time to address those needs and see what other devices you might have to include in your future plans.

SoftwareYou already know you’re going to have to change operating systems, so we don’t have to spend much time on that concern. This section addresses the software you run on that operating system (and whether that software will make the transition with you).

ProgramsAsk yourself what software you can’t live without, such as office programs, customer relationship management (CRM) software, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, or other specialised systems. When were these programs developed, and can you expect them to transition with you to your new setup (in their current form or in upgraded versions)? Now’s the time to evaluate everything you need, get rid of what’s useless or redundant, and get the necessary tools to progress further.



Files, folders and other dataYour upgrade shouldn’t only focus on the programs you use, but also on the data you create. You need to move this data to the new system, and that means you need to know several things about the data:

✓ Size of the data

✓ Location of the data

✓ Format in which the data is stored

By locating and ascertaining exactly what your data is and where it resides, you’ll be ready to move it when the time comes and not leave anything behind.

Your data doesn’t just reside on computers and servers. Your data could also be sitting on a smartphone or a tablet. Or a flash drive. Or a portable hard drive. It could also be on a floppy disk, I suppose, but you’ve got bigger problems if you’re still using one of those.

Designing Your New SystemNow that you’ve assessed your current situation, you can start planning what you need to buy (or lease) and how you’re going to move everything from your old system to your new system. Remember that your overall goal should be to facilitate all your current business needs and to give yourself some breathing room for the future.

At this point, Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 should last the entire life cycle of your new purchase, so you should be looking at all the options to better serve your business needs.

Upgrading to new technologyEverybody loves new technology toys, but remember that you need the new toys to do exactly what you need them to do. The important factor to consider at this point is how you plan to run your business in the next few years.


Chapter 3: Getting from Windows XP to the Future of Windows 23

ComputersEverybody would love the shiny new laptop with a load of new RAM and storage (and getting the most RAM and storage for your money is usually a good idea), but, of course you need to consider your budget, as well. Again, remember that you need hardware that will execute the current needs of your business, allowing it a little extra room to grow as developers create new programs and upgrade existing software. Think of it like shopping for a toddler’s shoes – leave some space for developments as time goes on.

You’ll also need to consider potential thin client machines, where users access cloud-based data services and carry very little onboard storage in favour of storing information elsewhere. Note that this system requires a persistent network connection whenever it’s used, but this kind of system can provide excellent data security and easy machine maintenance and replacement for your users, should the need arise.

Finally, you need to think about virtualising software for your computers. Does the user really need two or three computers if you can successfully virtualise those computers on a single computer? Where a user might need to interact with several different operating systems or configurations, virtualisation can reduce the hardware necessary to facilitate your business processes. That single machine might need some more robust hardware to manage all of the virtual installations, but the overall cost savings should make this an easy decision.

Mobile devicesIn this case, mobile devices might not even be a peripheral concern anymore – mobile devices might be the focus of your deployment. If your users work outside the office (if you even have a central office), mobile devices become a critical factor in your migration and rollout plan. You need to understand how these mobile devices interface with your network, and how you can allow employees who BYOD to access your network with a minimum of pain and complication.



Servers and networkDepending on when and where you need to access your data, cloud storage may be a realistic solution for your new system. No matter where you end up storing your data, though, you must still account for the following factors:

✓ Availability: Can your users get where they need to on your server and network at any time?

✓ Storage space: Can your users store everything they need to on your servers and network?

✓ Backups: Is all of your data safe and easily restored on your servers and network?

✓ Security: Can only those authorised to access your servers and network access them? Does that security apply to both your devices and any BYOD entries? And does your security comply with all applicable regulations for your particular industry?

You should think of virtualisation for your servers as well. You can place multiple installations (including your email servers, any web-based applications and storage) on a single server, and you can alter and modify these installations as you need to for your business process. Virtualisation helps you future-proof your system by making you less reliant on hardware concerns.

PeripheralsMost new peripherals should integrate correctly into your new network, so you just need to accommodate those devices into your plan. Also, ensure that your devices can last the over the life cycle of your software and hardware.

Planning your software migrationNow you need to plan how to get your software and data over to the new system you plan to install. This process isn’t as easy as plugging a flash drive into the old computer, copying over a few files and moving those files onto the new machine. In this case, you need to ensure that all of your new computers have all of the necessary applications to function and can access the correct data without issue. The procedure imple-mented by Dell takes the following steps to ensure that all of the software and data arrives on the new computers.



ImagesBuild a standard software and data deployment so that you can quickly prepare computers and get them functional on your network as quickly as possible. Most computers operate on the 64-bit version of Windows at this point, but you can also prepare a 32-bit version image to account for applicable computers as well. These images should fit both your business needs and any applicable best practices.

Inventory and rationalisationThis step analyses your computers, prepares any applications necessary and gets the systems ready for testing to ensure that your new images and software run correctly.

Application compatibility testingThis step actually tests your applications and fixes any issues the testing encounters.

Deployment planningThis step is where you plan to roll out the new software to your users, minimising any hassle and stress the users encounter during the process.

Deployment automationEven if you employ a large IT department, you can save them time and effort by automating the deployment process as much as possible. Not only does automation ensure that you get a standardised version of your software across all computers, but that the software can be deployed at a specified time in multiple locations. You can also determine the correct sequence for the deployment to ensure the software functions optimally.

Dell SolutionsDell offers a host of solutions that provide key tools in implementing a seamless migration:

✓ New Dell Client Solutions: Dell offers a broad portfolio of thinner, lighter, secure, manageable and reliable products. These tablets, ultrabooks and all-in-one devices feature touch functionality and the latest fourth generation processors.


Windows XP Migration For Dummies, Dell Special Edition 26 ✓ Dell Quest: Dell Quest provides automated testing and

remediation for your implementation. These services can reduce migration time and costs by half.

✓ Dell KACE: Dell KACE represents the leader in endpoint systems deployment and management. Eighty percent of KACE customers report an ROI in less than six months.

✓ Dell Services: Dell Services offers seamless management of Windows migration, reducing typical migration timeframes from 18 months to less than a year.

The actual process varies from installation to installation, but these steps give you a comprehensive plan.

Purchasing versus leasingIn the future, you may be better off leasing technology than purchasing it outright. Found in an IDC study, leasing and financing help reduce maintenance and support costs while maintaining a viable technology life cycle as opposed to longer, less-planned life cycles.

That same study also noted that newer technology means shifting costs away from traditional technology and towards more thin-client models and services. This kind of arrangement can reduce deployment costs and time invested in IT work.

Be sure you spend your money wisely and integrate your financial and technology goals together when you implement your new plan.

Executing Your PlansThis section helps you get ready to actually implement the necessary steps to migrate from Windows XP to a new operating system.



Installing the new technologyWhen installing new technology, your plan should account for the following steps:

✓ Ordering the necessary hardware

✓ Executing the deployment plan

✓ Disposing of the old hardware

Depending on where you do business, this process could be fraught with regulatory concern and peril. Make sure you correctly follow each and every regulation necessary to ensure that your old equipment goes to the right place and causes no environmental and security issues.

Herding your users into the futureUsers love new toys, but you also need to make sure they can continue to work speedily and efficiently during the transition. Make sure you provide the following support during the transition.

TrainingGive the users as much information as possible in the lead-up to the transition to ensure they know exactly what they’re getting and how they’re expected to use it. This step includes practical training and any supplementary information they need as well.

SupportAfter the transition begins, users need support to reinforce the training and handle any additional issues. Make sure the support is there, ready to answer the call of duty.

The unexpectedTrue, you can’t prepare for the unexpected – if you could, you would be expecting it. However, you can provide extra resources to ensure that, even if things get really rough, you have the time and resources to handle problems without severely damaging your business process.



Dell Services DeploymentWhen the Dell Services Deployment professionals handle your migration plan, they address three main issues:

1. Hardware readiness

2. Operating system readiness

3. Software application readiness

A Dell Services Deployment migration helps you

✓ Optimise deployment for organisa-tions with less than 500 members of staff and assists with planning or automating that deployment

✓ Manage deployment processes for organisations with more than 500 employees

✓ Configure services for pre-loaded device images (automatic deployment of standardised software packages for each type of device)

✓ Resell and recycle your device

If you don’t already have a plan, Dell can help you get rid of your old systems in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible. Overall, these services help reduce the complexity, time and internal IT staff workload for your migrations.


Chapter 4

Ten Reasons to Choose Dell for Your Migration

In This Chapter▶ Understanding what Dell can provide for your company

▶ Realising how this support and service aids your transition to new technology

▶ Saying farewell to all of the security problems and other issues tied into maintaining a Windows XP platform

D ell plans for all occurrences and handles all factors within the migration process. Given that Dell deploys

more than a million new computers every year in more than 100 countries, the team has more than enough experience to enable them to handle your case with any appropriate measures.

Provides Tools for Deploying New Software and Hardware

Dell Services, and software solutions such as Dell Quest and Dell KACE, can help you manage and deploy Windows 8/8.1. In addition to this, Dell has a partnership with Intel to help deliver the latest hardware technology backed up by the Dell Services (ProSupport) team.



Reduces PC Deployment CostsBy using Dell, you reduce deployment costs by 55 percent. That’s a lot of savings when it comes to installing new com-puters or network devices. Maybe even enough to get you the supercomputer you dreamed of? We won’t tell anyone.

Handles a Migration Process from Any Point

Whether you’re just beginning to think about it or already know where you want to go, Dell can help. Dell helps you to develop a comprehensive plan designed for your needs and current situation to ensure that you get the new technology to successfully execute your business processes.

Compatibility Tests for All New Devices and Apps

Dell makes an inventory of the software you currently use and ensures that you continue to experience full functionality (or get to full functionality if you’re not there yet).

Automation Speeds Up the Deployment Process

Dell can automate the imaging and deployment of operating systems and software, which saves a great deal of time when it comes to getting new computers into the hands of your users. You don’t even have to leave your seat!


Chapter 4: Ten Reasons to Choose Dell for Your Migration 31

Standardises Your Operating Environment

Because Dell knows the system and the software, the migration team can set up standards for your new systems. That way, your IT staff knows exactly what they’re dealing with at all times and can handle the challenges as they come.

Handles Upgrades, Logistics and Relocation

If an off-the-shelf computer won’t work as well for you as a customised solution might, Dell can make sure the computers come with increased RAM or more or less storage – it can even work out a mobile solution for you.

Of course, you’ll have to deal with getting your systems where they need to go and disposing of your old computers safely, according to any applicable regulations. Dell can handle the shipping, storage and removal of old systems as necessary.

If your new systems are part of an overall move (in which case, congratulations on the new office), Dell can help you relocate your system to wherever it needs to go and make sure everything works correctly, before you sit down at your desk for the first time.

Frees Your IT ResourcesEvery company has a finite number of IT employees and resources, and every company has probably taxed those employees and resources to the max. Dell makes sure that you can continue your normal business operations while the planning and execution of your migration takes place. Plus, Dell makes sure that your IT staff can pick up the ball and keep going with the new system with minimum issues.



Saves MoneyThe initial cost for purchase and rollout may seem daunting at first, but remember that you’re going to incur costs at some point with this transition. You can invest in a quality system now and save a great deal of money over the lifespan of your systems.

You can use Dell Financial Services for affordable software and hardware migration. Dell allows you to spread your migration costs over the life of the equipment to avoid initial investment hurdles. You can also work around any cash restraints you may have to get more out of your budget, link financing to plans to refresh your equipment in future, and manage the total cost of ownership.

Gives You Flexible and Functional Options

Dell can handle both traditional computer systems and mobile solutions, with a vast number of computers and other devices included in the process. You can get exactly what you need, customised for your business. It may seem too good to be true (and it’s not going to magically show up at your business tomorrow), but Dell can get your business what it needs for it to move beyond Windows XP.


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