Windows 10: When will it be released and how do I get it?

Windows 10 is the successor to Windows 8.1

Microsoft is set to launch Windows 10 (Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images)

Microsoft is days away from launching its long-awaited Windows 10 operating system, which can't come soon enough for users fed up with the widely panned Windows 8.1.

Here is everything you need to know about Windows 10, which will be launched on 29 July.

What do I have to do to get an upgrade?

If you’re using Windows 7 or 8.1, visit the Windows logo on the right-hand side of your taskbar to reserve an upgrade. This will automatically check whether your PC is compatible, and sort out downloading the installation files.

However, not everyone who signs up in this way will see their computer updated on 29 July, as Windows 10 will be rolled out gradually. When the upgrade is ready, you will receive a notification.

Those who took part in the Windows Insider programme, and helped developers test the operating system, will get the first look at Windows 10.

You can still download the update if you don’t reserve a copy, but this will simply involve more legwork.

Unfortunately, those using Windows Vista or older must buy Windows 10 for $199.99 at the end of August.

The process of upgrading will take up to an hour.

How powerful does my computer need to be?

If your computer can run Windows 7 or 8.1, it can probably run the new software.

More specifically, your computer needs the following specifications:

- The latest, genuine, version of Windows 7 or 8.1.

- Processor: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster processor or SoC

- RAM: 1 gigabyte (GB) for 32-bit or 2 GB for 64-bit

- Hard disk space: 16 GB for 32-bit OS 20 GB for 64-bit OS

- Graphics card: DirectX 9 or later with WDDM 1.0 driver

- Display: 1024x600

I don’t want to upgrade yet, what do I do?

The free upgrade is available for a year, until 26 July 2016.