Windows 10 was first pushed out to Microsoft fans in 2015 with it aimed at bringing a swathe of extra features and security improvements to the popular operating system.
However, since it was released many Windows users have faced numerous issues, with the most recent update causing the Google Chrome browser and Microsoft’s very own Cortana to freeze and even lock computers.
A bug in the new Windows 10 April update also appeared to cause a lack of access to the desktop.
Now research from consumer champion Which?, has revealed that half of Windows 10 users have experienced computer problems after installing the update.
Which? says that users are still plagued with problems, ranging from minor quirks to complete PC failure that resulted in costly repairs.
The survey of more than 1,100 Which? members found the most common complaints following the update to Windows 10 included software compatibility issues, such as programmes not working properly, followed by hardware problems, such as printers and speakers losing their connection.
Users also said they experienced issues with email accounts no longer syncing and personal files being inadvertently deleted.
Some consumers even suffered PC slowdown and, in some cases, members reported complete PC failure.
Of those in the survey who experienced this, 46 per cent said they had paid someone to fix it, at an average cost of £67 each.
Now Which? is calling on Microsoft to compensate those affected and to be more transparent in the future about the possible downsides of its updates.
And it is also demanding that Microsoft must offer effective and free customer support so users can get issues easily fixed.
Alex Neill, Which? Managing Director of Home Products and Services, said: “Two years on from raising this issue with Microsoft, customers are still frustrated by this software and the poor customer service they are getting. What started out as a tech problem has become a huge customer service fail.
“Microsoft needs to finally engage with its customers, do more to fix the problem and pay out compensation, where appropriate.”
Microsoft says it is considering Which?’s proposals and in a statement said: “We want to make sure our customers receive the right support they need to get the best Windows update experience and we will continue to review customer enquiries and issues on a case-by-case basis to ensure individual help and resolution where possible.
“In addition, Which? members are very important to us so we are currently exploring ways in which we can work together in the future to ensure they have the support that they need in a way that is easy and quick.”
