The Windows 8 Guide

Occasional installation problems may arise. If this occurs, restarting the installation process can often resolve the issue and successfully add the software to your Windows 8 device.

The Store may occasionally experience timeouts. In such cases, follow the onscreen prompts to wait before retrying. The Store also displays notifications in the top-right corner indicating available app updates.

Updates can be applied by right-clicking and selecting Update > Install, ensuring the desired apps are selected.

6.4 Don’t Forget the Native Apps!

Before exploring the Store, verify whether your required functionality is already included within Windows 8.

The Start screen provides access to the following pre-installed applications:

• Mail – Provides access to your email accounts.
• Internet Explorer – Enables web browsing.
• Calendar – Synchronizes calendar data with Windows Live and Google.
• SkyDrive – Offers cloud storage capabilities.
• People – Consolidates your contacts list and social networks.
• Messaging – Integrates Windows Live and Facebook messaging (if configured).
• Weather – Utilizes location technology to display current weather conditions.
• Finance – Delivers financial news updates.
• Photos – Allows access to photos stored on your device, SkyDrive, and social networks like Facebook or Flickr.
• Maps – Provides Bing Maps for navigation.
• News – Functions as a news reader, delivering news based on your location.
• Sport – Offers sports news tailored to your location and preferences.
• Bing – Serves as the Windows 8 search tool.
• Travel – Facilitates hotel searches and flight bookings.
• Games – Enables the addition of new games and tracking of your Xbox Live Gamerscore.
• Reader – Supports PDF and Microsoft XPS format files, eliminating the need for a separate Adobe PDF reader.

These pre-installed tools offer a range of useful features within the Windows 8 environment.

7. Email, Internet, People and the Cloud

A significant benefit of Windows 8 and its Metro UI lies in the seamless integration of services like SkyDrive and social networks, such as Facebook, directly into the operating system. Mirroring functionality found in Windows Phone, the OS simplifies connecting with contacts and accessing cloud-based resources.

Should you log in to another Windows 8 computer using a Windows account, your data, contacts, and even applications will be readily available for your use!

Furthermore, Windows 8 introduces a revised version of the Internet Explorer browser, alongside a built-in email application, a feature that was absent in Windows 7.

7.1 Internet Explorer: Browsing and Downloading

Launching Internet Explorer 10 from the Start screen reveals a black bar positioned at the bottom of the page. This serves as the navigation bar, strategically placed to leverage the tendency of users to overlook the bottom portion of web pages, even when crucial information is displayed there.

Internet Explorer 10 encompasses several features, most of which are accessible through the navigation bar.

7.1.1 Navigating Internet Explorer 10

The new browser in Windows 8 operates in two modes: one for Metro and another for the Desktop. While the Desktop version maintains a traditional design, the Metro mode offers a streamlined experience focused on speed and ease of use.

To begin browsing, you'll need to enter a website address (URL). This can be easily accomplished upon initial launch by tapping the address field within the navigation bar. Subsequently, when navigating to new websites, you can reveal the navigation bar by sliding a finger upwards from the screen's bottom edge (or right-clicking with a mouse).

Beyond the URL field, the navigation bar includes several controls. On the left is the Back button, enabling you to revisit the previous webpage. To the right of the website address is the Refresh button, useful for reloading pages with updated content. Adjacent to this, you’ll find the Pin site button, used to add web pages as shortcut tiles to your Windows 8 Start screen, utilizing the Pin to Start option. Alternatively, you can add sites to your browser favorites using Add to favourites.

Page tools (represented by a spanner icon) provides options such as Get app for this site (disabled when not applicable), Find on page for searching webpage text, and View on the desktop (discussed further below).

Finally, the Forward button allows you to move forward through your browsing history.

7.1.2 Shortcuts and Tabs

To enhance browsing efficiency, Windows 8’s Internet Explorer 10 browser incorporates several helpful features.

The Pinned/Frequent bar, displayed when you tap the address field, is one such feature. It presents a horizontally-scrolling list of tiles representing your most visited websites and those pinned to the Start screen.

Upon visiting your first page with Internet Explorer 10, the browser may offer to “skip ahead” with your browsing, preloading subsequent pages while you read the current one. If you enable this, the Forward button becomes available for navigating to those preloaded pages.

At the screen's top is the tab management area, visible when the navigation bar is open. It displays thumbnails of all currently open tabs. These tabs can be closed by tapping the X in the top-right corner of their thumbnails, and new tabs can be opened by tapping the + symbol. The ellipses (…) button reveals additional options, including a New InPrivate tab for private browsing and the Close tabs command.

7.1.3 Downloading with Internet Explorer 10

Despite the presence of the Windows 8 store and its integrated applications, you can still download files – applications, utilities, images, documents, videos, and more – from the Internet.

However, the Metro UI may impose certain restrictions on how these files are handled.

Internet Explorer 10 allows you to download any linked data, just like any other browser. For example, clicking a link to a PDF file will prompt the browser to ask if you want to open or save the file. Selecting Open will launch the native Windows 8 document reader.

Files like ZIP archives might be handled differently. In such cases, you'll likely need to Save the file or click the Page tools icon and select View on the desktop. This will launch the classic Desktop view, providing greater flexibility for saving and opening the file. Right-clicking or long-tapping an image allows you to either Copy the graphic or Save to picture library.

The Desktop version of Internet Explorer closely resembles Internet Explorer 9, offering a familiar user interface and expected functionality.

Read more: Internet Explorer 10 Tips and Tricks

7.2 Managing People and Social Networks

A core aspect of Windows 8 is its integration with social networks, particularly Windows Live, Facebook, and Twitter.

To facilitate this, the OS includes a robust contacts management system, accessible through the People tile on the Start screen.

Tapping or clicking in the top-right corner of the People screen allows you to add a new social network. With Add an account, you can connect accounts from the following services:

• Hotmail/Outlook
• Facebook
• Twitter
• LinkedIn
• Google

Selecting any of these will require you to provide your credentials so that the People tool can connect and synchronize contacts and other information, linking your account to your Windows account.

The resulting integration should be significant, providing a centralized system for managing contacts and accessing social networks!

7.2.1 Catching Up with Social Networks

Once accounts are added, you can interact with Facebook, Twitter, and other services quickly and easily, without opening a browser.

The initial view in the People screen displays your Windows 8 profile image. Clicking this will take you to your profile, where you can update your status on various social networks and check for notifications (also accessible via View on the main People screen).

Alternatively, you can select What’s New, which displays the latest updates from your contacts across the social networks you’ve integrated with Windows 8.

You can swipe left or scroll to view your contacts list, and opening any contact will display relevant notifications.

7.2.2 Communicating with Contacts

There are several ways to communicate with your contacts.

Opening the People screen and selecting a contact displays the available options, which depend on the information you have for that contact. Finding a contact can be expedited by typing their name on your keyboard or using the search tool from the Charm Bar.

With a contact selected, you’ll see their details and recent activity (viewable by scrolling to the right). Tapping the contact details allows you to send an email (see below), message them through Windows Live or Facebook, or even call them if you have Skype installed.

Sending a message opens the Messaging app, a native Windows 8 tool found on the Start screen. To send a message to the selected contact, fill in the box at the bottom of the screen and tap Enter, utilizing the smiley options to the right. To message a different online contact, select them and type; for someone else entirely, tap New message and select them from the People list.

As demonstrated, any contact details you have can be used to launch the appropriate app and connect with them!

7.2.3 Adding New People

The People screen offers useful menu options, accessible by right-clicking or sliding up from the bottom of the screen. The first option filters the contact list to display only those who are Online only. The second is New, for adding a new contact.

Adding a new contact requires you to first select the primary account association. Facebook and Twitter are excluded here; you can only add contacts to Hotmail/Outlook or Google.

After entering the contact’s First name and Surname, you can optionally add their Company before inputting their Email address and Phone number. Clicking the chevrons next to these labels allows you to specify the type of address or number; the + buttons enable multiple entries, allowing you to differentiate between a home and mobile number.

The New contact screen also accommodates the individual’s Address and any Other info, such as their Job title or Website. Click Save once the details are entered; if you decide not to add the contact, the Cancel button will return you to the People screen.

7.2.4 Editing and Linking Your Contacts

You might cancel adding a new contact if you realize you already have their details saved in Windows 8. You might have their Hotmail address but want to add their Gmail address. This is easily remedied by opening the original profile and swiping up from the bottom of the display (or right-clicking with a mouse) to reveal the menu. The Edit button allows you to enter additional or modified details.

You can also use the Link button to merge duplicate contacts. This should only be done when they represent the same person, perhaps imported from different accounts on your Windows 8 computer.

This menu also provides quick access to a contact using the Pin to Start button or saving them as a Favourite. If necessary, you can delete a record using the Delete option (although this may not work with linked accounts – further action may be required).

7.3 Emails: Setting Up, Collecting and Sending

With a Microsoft-based account set as your default on Windows 8, you can use the Mail app to send and receive messages. Similarly, the Calendar app will synchronize with your appointments and engagements.

If you’ve signed into Windows 8 with a Windows account, your emails should automatically sync when the computer is online. However, if you prefer a different account – perhaps one provided by your employer, ISP, or Gmail – you can add it by displaying the Charm Bar, choosing Settings > Accounts > Add an account. You would also use this menu to edit existing accounts.

Windows 8 should automatically set up Google, AOL, and Yahoo! accounts by selecting the appropriate option and entering your details. For accounts associated with your domain or ISP, select Other account. In most cases, the email details will be detected, allowing you to Connect. However, you may need to use the Show more details option and manually enter server names in some situations.

Once email is set up, messages should be collected automatically, although you can adjust the mail-checking frequency, image display, signature, and notifications by opening Settings > Accounts and selecting the relevant account. You can also remove an account using the Remove account button.

Sending an email is easily achieved using the + button in the top-right corner. Here, you’ll also find the Reply button, offering options: Reply, Reply all, and Forward. The Delete button removes the currently selected message to Trash.

To start a new email message, complete the Add a subject field and click or tap near Add a message to compose your email. When finished, tap Send!

7.4 Accessing and Browsing SkyDrive

Another benefit of signing into Windows 8 with your Windows Live/Hotmail (or other Microsoft login) account is integrated access to SkyDrive.

Available from the Start screen, SkyDrive provides browsable access to any documents, photos, and other files you’ve saved. Additionally, if you use Office 365, you can open Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files in your browser.

Images in SkyDrive can be browsed and opened on your computer (see 5.1 Enjoying Photos in Windows 8), while data can be downloaded to your device or uploaded.

As with the Start screen, tiles representing files can be right-clicked or down-swiped to select them. The resulting context menu at the screen's bottom displays the following options:

• Clear select – deselects the chosen tile.
• Download – saves the file to your PC.
• Delete – discards the data from SkyDrive.
• Open with – allows you to select the app with which to open the file.
• Refresh – updates the view.
• New folder – creates a new directory in SkyDrive.
• Upload – opens Documents from where you can choose a file to upload.
• Details – switches the view from thumbnail tiles to a list-style view with more information about files and folders (clicking again returns to the thumbnail view).

SkyDrive is extremely useful, offering at least 5 GB (up to 25 GB free, depending on account age) and can be accessed from other devices using apps or a web browser.

8. Customizing Your Windows 8 Experience

Windows 8 presents a visually appealing interface with its vibrant Start screen, dynamic live tiles, and customizable background. Recognizing that individual preferences vary, the operating system provides a range of options for personalizing your Windows 8 computer.

Both the Start screen’s appearance and the lock screen image are adjustable, alongside the size and arrangement of tiles. While new applications are automatically added to the Start screen, tiles can be removed, offering a solution if the display feels cluttered.

Beyond visual adjustments, configuring how your device powers on and off impacts performance. Furthermore, Windows 8’s settings synchronization allows changes made on one device to be reflected across all other Windows 8 computers you access!

8.1 Modifying Start Screen and Lock Screen Wallpaper

Provided Windows 8 is activated, you have the ability to alter both the Lock screen and Start screen backgrounds, as well as your Account picture. Note that the Account picture can also be managed through your Windows Live account.

After activation, access the Charm Bar and navigate to Settings > More PC Settings > Personalize. From this location, select Lock screen, Start screen, or Account picture to implement your desired modifications.

A selection of default images is available for the Lock screen, and you can also Browse your computer to select a personal image. You’ll also find options to control which applications can display information on the Windows 8 lock screen.

Within the Start screen settings, you can preview various backgrounds and color schemes. The Account picture settings allow you to choose from previously used pictures or browse your Windows 8 computer or SkyDrive for a new option.

8.2 Adjusting Tile Size, Position, and Removal

While the Windows 8 Start screen’s design isn’t universally favored, altering the background and tile layout can improve its functionality.

To begin, tap the – symbol in the lower-right corner of the Start screen, or pinch an empty area of the display. This reveals an overview of all tiles – known as Semantic Zoom – which aids in organizing apps and tiles. Utilizing Semantic Zoom is recommended for efficient Start screen management, providing a comprehensive view of the layout.

In this view, you can easily tap and drag (or left-click and drag) groups of tiles. Selecting a group allows you to use the Name Group option to assign a label, which will appear above the tiles on the Start screen.

Tiles can be resized in Metro by selecting them and choosing Smaller or Larger from the context menu. You may also wish to rearrange tiles for a more organized appearance. This is achieved by long-tapping (or left-clicking and holding) a tile and dragging it to the desired position, then releasing it.

Alternatively, you can adjust the overall size of elements in Windows 8. In Settings > Change PC Settings > Ease of Access, toggle the Make everything on your screen bigger switch for a larger, more detailed Start screen view. This functionality is dependent on your device’s display capabilities.

To uninstall an app, locate it on the Start menu or in the App List, long tap or right click, and select Uninstall from the context menu. If you prefer to simply hide an app, use the Unpin option.

Further resources on personalizing your Windows 8 system are available in these articles:

• How To Tweak The Visual Effects In Windows 8
• Pokki Brings The Start Menu Back To Windows 8
• Rearrange The Windows 8 Start Screen With Registry Tweaks & Utilities
• Make Windows 8 Sexier With These Background & Theme Tweaks
• Make Windows 8 Suck Less With Classic Shell

8.3 Power Management and Device Controls

The method for turning off or restarting your Windows 8 device varies depending on the type of hardware you are using.

On a tablet, the power button immediately places Windows 8 into standby mode. For a complete Shut down or Restart, navigate to Charms > Settings > Power.

More detailed power options are accessible in the classic Desktop environment. These options remain largely unchanged from Windows 7 and can be found via WIN+X > Power Options. Here, you can adjust the display’s timeout period and configure advanced power settings for devices like USB peripherals.

8.4 Utilizing Windows 8 Synchronization

A key benefit of Windows 8 is its ability to synchronize your data with SkyDrive. This extends beyond files, encompassing preferences, background settings, and even installed applications.

Consequently, apps installed on one computer can be accessed on any other Windows 8 computer you sign into!

Access synchronization settings via Charms > Settings > More PC Settings > Sync your settings. The primary toggle, Sync settings on this PC, is enabled by default. Other synchronization options include:

• Personalization and Desktop Personalization settings.
• Passwords (requires PC activation) and sign-in information for websites, apps, and HomeGroup.
• Ease of Access and Language Preferences.
• App settings, including in-app purchases.
• Browser history and favorites.
• File Explorer, mouse, and other Windows settings.
• Synchronization over metered connections.

Each of these Windows 8 synchronization options can be individually enabled or disabled, granting you control over data syncing and the conditions under which it occurs.

9. Windows 8 Security

Over the years, security has been a frequent concern voiced regarding Microsoft products. While improvements have been made, ensuring computer security ultimately remains the responsibility of the user.

Safely connecting to wireless networks is one crucial aspect, as is the decision between utilizing a local account or logging in with a Windows account. Employing strong passwords and leveraging picture passwords are also beneficial security measures.

9.1 Networking Windows 8

Establishing an internet connection is a prerequisite for utilizing Windows 8. During the final steps of post-installation configuration, Windows 8 will attempt to connect to available networks, either wireless or wired, based on detected connections. A password will be required for wireless connectivity.

The current network connection can be verified through the Charm Bar > Settings > Network. However, modifications necessitate accessing the Desktop interface, employing methods consistent with Windows 7.

Windows 8 offers a range of sharing capabilities. Through the Network screen, sharing can be enabled or disabled by right-clicking or long-tapping the relevant network connection. Two distinct options are provided, suited for different environments – public areas versus home networks.

The HomeGroup feature simplifies local network sharing more effectively than previous Windows versions. Sharing of Documents, Music, Pictures, Videos, and Printers and devices can be individually toggled, and a Windows-generated key facilitates access for other network users. This functionality can be instantly deactivated by selecting the Leave button.

9.2 Local vs. Windows Account

Utilizing a Windows account presents several advantages. Your Windows 8 device can be configured with minimal user interaction upon initial startup, with emails, contacts, and calendar data readily available. Furthermore, data can be conveniently stored in the cloud, and the account can be used for app downloads.

However, a Windows account isn’t mandatory. Accessing Windows 8 can be managed through a local account. This option lacks the synced data and app/password backups associated with a Windows account, but it’s preferable for those with concerns regarding cloud computing. A local account can be established during setup or switched to via Charm Bar > Settings > More PC Settings > Users > Switch to a local account. The Users screen also allows you to Add a user for colleagues, friends, or family.

9.3 Setting Passwords

Windows 8 requires a password for device security and unlocking. If a Windows account is used, the password will be identical to that account’s credentials. Passwords can be modified in the Charm Bar > Settings > More PC Settings > Users > Change your password screen, regardless of account type.

Additionally, a Create a PIN option is available for login. Notably, Windows 8 introduces the ability to Create a picture password, particularly well-suited for tablets. This innovative feature requires confirming your existing text password, then selecting an image. The picture password combines image and gesture, prompting you to create a gesture using lines, circles, and taps. The size, direction, and position of these gestures contribute to the password, alongside the chosen image, enhancing security.

9.4 Windows Firewall

Accessing the Windows Firewall necessitates navigating to the Windows 8 Desktop mode. This can be achieved through the search tool or by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+X > Control Panel > System and security > Windows Firewall.

Within this interface, you can enable or disable the firewall (it should remain enabled) and configure behaviors for public and private networks. Advanced settings remain consistent with those found in Windows 7.

9.5 Windows 8 Privacy Settings

Privacy settings, beyond those in Internet Explorer 10, are accessible via Charm Bar > Settings > Change PC Settings > Privacy.

These settings control whether apps can access your location (determined by wireless networks or mobile data connections), utilize your name and account picture, and provide assistance to the Windows Store.

The Windows 8 Privacy Statement is also available through this screen.

9.6 Privacy Concerns

It’s important to be aware of potential privacy implications associated with Windows 8. As Microsoft’s first “walled garden” platform (excluding Xbox 360), the SmartScreen feature monitors downloaded applications and transmits details to Microsoft.

If software isn’t on Microsoft’s approved list, a warning message appears, indicating a potential risk. While intended to protect less tech-savvy users, this system could potentially restrict users to Microsoft-approved software through the Store.

Furthermore, significant privacy considerations exist. Windows 8 logs every app installed and sends this information to Microsoft as a central data repository. This raises concerns when governments or courts request user information, particularly in politically unstable regions.

The issue is substantial for many users. While only the user’s IP address and app name are transmitted via a secure SSLv3 connection, this data can still compromise privacy, especially with a static IP. The process isn’t explicitly indicated during installation, despite SmartScreen being mentioned and disable-able.

10. Desktop Mode and Advanced Settings

As previously mentioned in this guide’s introduction, Windows 8 comes in two distinct versions. One is designed for traditional x86/x64 processors, while the other is tailored for ARM processors.

The ARM version is commonly found on tablet devices, whereas the x86/x64 version is prevalent on desktops, laptops, and convertible devices. Regardless of the device you possess, the question of utilizing Desktop mode arises.

Desktop mode represents the new iteration of the traditional Windows user interface, now functioning as an App within the new Start screen. Despite initial skepticism from some users and reviewers during the preview phases, it remains a functional and productive environment.

10.1 Can I Use Desktop Mode Instead of Metro

Early builds of Windows 8 prompted concern as the Start menu was absent from Desktop mode. Consequently, methods were developed to reinstate it; we previously detailed four approaches to add a Start Menu to Windows 8.

However, Microsoft appears determined to prevent this functionality in the final release. This may diminish the usefulness of Desktop mode for some, as the Start menu has historically been a key tool for application discovery and launching. While Windows 8’s search function is accessible from Desktop mode, its appearance differs.

A potential drawback of prioritizing the Desktop – achievable by setting it as the first tile in Metro and pressing Enter upon startup – is that certain applications may open files within Metro instead of the Desktop environment.

To address this, open search and type “default programs”. Select the corresponding option in the left pane to manage which applications launch when specific file types are opened. This feature, largely unchanged since Windows 7, allows you to prioritize Desktop usage while effectively utilizing Windows 8.

10.2 Using the Desktop

If you’ve configured the Desktop tile as your initial option within Metro, accessing this alternative view of Windows 8 is straightforward.

A comprehensive overview of all changes in Windows 8 would be extensive. However, aside from the Start menu’s replacement with the WIN+X key combination (available in both modes) and the streamlining of some Windows 7 interface elements, the most significant improvements occur internally.

These enhancements focus on security and speed, often imperceptible to the average user. File access remains easy through the Windows Explorer shortcut on the taskbar, and the system tray persists on the right. The Control Panel, Device Manager, and Task Manager are readily accessible, and WIN+TAB or ALT+TAB quickly switch between open windows.

10.3 Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer 10 also features a Desktop mode, launched via the traditional blue “e” icon on the Desktop taskbar.

From here, you can browse the web and manage familiar settings like history, favorites, and privacy. Beyond the Settings > Internet Options and Safety options for privacy management, websites viewed in Desktop mode can be added to Metro using the Settings > Add site to Start Screen command. Conversely, the Go to pinned sites option returns you to the Start screen for quick access to pinned webpages.

Internet Explorer 10 in Desktop mode provides a more conventional browsing experience compared to its Metro counterpart. Importantly, history, temporary internet files, and cookies for the Metro version can be configured and cleared using the tools within the Desktop version.

10.4 Windows Explorer’s Ribbon

A notable change in Windows 8’s Desktop mode is the introduction of the ribbon interface – initially featured in Microsoft Office 2007 – to Windows Explorer. Previously “hidden” properties are now integrated into the ribbon toolbar.

This allows you to navigate the directory structure of your computer while providing easy access to advanced features like sharing and view options via the Share and View tabs. The core functionality of these features remains consistent with Windows 7.

10.5 Running Legacy Applications in the Desktop

Concerns regarding the Metro user interface and reliance on the Store for application installation have been raised. However, there are currently no plans to discontinue the classic Desktop.

This ensures that most legacy applications and games designed for pre-Windows 8 versions should install and run in Desktop mode without significant issues. You should be able to install the majority of applications listed on our recommended Windows software page without encountering problems. While some compatibility issues may arise, they can typically be addressed using compatibility mode, a feature available since Windows Vista.

When installing an application for Desktop mode, ensure you select the option to create a Desktop shortcut during the installation process. Otherwise, you’ll need to locate the executable file through Windows Explorer. Without a Start menu, this can be challenging, but manageable.

Uninstalling software can be done through the Programs and Features screen, accessible via the WIN+X menu.

10.6 On-screen keyboard

In Metro, the on-screen keyboard automatically appears when text input is required, such as in emails, the web browser, or the search screen.

However, in Desktop mode, activation is necessary. This is achieved by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Toolbars, then choosing Touch Keyboard. A new icon will appear on the taskbar next to the system tray. The keyboard offers three modes: Full-screen (a wide layout), Thumb (optimized for thumb typing), and Pen (for stylus input).

10.7 Take a Screenshot in Windows 8

Windows 8 introduced a significant improvement to the operating system: a simplified screenshot capture process. Previously, this involved pressing the Print Screen key, opening an image editor like Paint, pasting the image, and then saving it.

In Windows 8, the process is much easier. With the desired screen displayed, press WIN+Print Screen to capture the image and automatically save it to the Pictures library. This feature functions in both Metro and Desktop mode, although currently, there’s no option to capture a specific window.

10.8 Activating Windows 8

If Windows 8 is not activated, certain settings and features will be disabled. A persistent message, Activate Windows – Go to PC settings to activate Windows, will also appear in the bottom-right corner of the display.

Activation requires connecting to Microsoft servers over the internet to verify the operating system’s legitimacy. This typically involves entering the product key. If prompted, open the Command Prompt as an administrator (tap WIN+X and select Command Prompt (Admin)) and enter the following command:

slmgr.vbs –ipk [PRODUCT KEY HERE]

After entering the product key, type:

slmgr.vbs –ato

Executing this command will activate Windows 8!

11. Addressing Issues in Windows 8

Occasional problems or questions regarding feature functionality are to be expected when using Windows 8.

Should your system become unresponsive or freeze, the first course of action should always be a restart. If the issue continues after rebooting, consider uninstalling any software recently running when the problem occurred, and verify your network connectivity.

It’s important to recognize that network-related issues can sometimes cause Windows 8 to hang. Therefore, if you are logging in with a Microsoft account, switching to a local account may improve performance if significant slowdowns are experienced.

11.1 Integrating New Hardware

Consistent with all Windows iterations, most new hardware components should function immediately upon connection, or with driver support provided through Windows Update.

You can Add a device and manage connected hardware through Charm Bar > Settings > Change PC Settings > Devices. Removing hardware is accomplished by selecting the device and confirming the removal in the following dialogue window.

Generally, hardware integration is a simple process. Any difficulties encountered can typically be resolved by switching to Desktop mode and downloading the necessary driver from the internet or installation media.

11.2 Windows 8 Updates and System Refresh

Windows Update remains a crucial component of Windows 8, delivering improvements, bug resolutions, security enhancements, and other system updates. Access this feature via Charm Bar > Settings > Change PC Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates now.

By default, update checks are scheduled daily. The frequency of update installations can be adjusted by navigating to WIN+X, selecting Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Update > Change Settings.

Additional options are available under Charm Bar > Settings > Change PC Settings > General. Of particular note is Refresh your PC without affecting your files, a feature mirroring functionality found in Mac OS X. This allows for a system refresh while preserving personal files like documents and photos, proving invaluable when addressing performance concerns.

Alternatively, the Remove everything and reinstall Windows option can be used to thoroughly clean the system before gifting or selling it, removing both personal files and user profiles.

The Advanced start-up screen, accessed through a specialized reboot, provides access to legacy recovery tools. System Restore, System Image Recovery, and Automatic Repair are all available here, alongside the Command Prompt. These options remain largely unchanged from Windows 7.

The Start-up Settings menu also offers various boot options, including Safe Mode and low-resolution video mode.

• Safe Mode – Windows 8 boots with a minimal set of drivers and services.
• Safe Mode with Networking – Includes network drivers and services for internet or network access.
• Safe Mode with Command Prompt – Loads a command prompt window instead of the standard Windows 8 interface. Type Exit to return.
• Enable Boot Logging – Creates ntbtlog.txt, listing drivers loaded during startup, aiding advanced troubleshooting.
• Enable low-resolution video – Boots Windows 8 at a low 640x480 resolution and refresh rate.
• Debugging Mode – Provides advanced troubleshooting access for IT professionals.
• Disable automatic restart on system failure – Prevents automatic restarts upon system failure, useful for diagnosing reboot loops.
• Disable Driver Signature Enforcement – Allows installation of drivers with invalid signatures for troubleshooting.
• Disable Early Launch Anti-Malware Driver – Launches Windows 8 with the Early Launch Anti-Malware tool disabled.
• Start Windows Normally – Boots into Windows 8 as usual.

These settings can also be accessed by pressing WIN+R and typing shutdown /r /o /t 00.

11.3 Managing Notifications

Notifications appear in the top-right corner of the screen, providing updates from your preferred applications and services. Configuration options are found in Charm Bar > Settings > Change PC Settings > Notifications.

Initially, you can enable or disable notifications entirely, control whether app notifications appear on the app screen, and manage sound playback for new notifications.

The settings also display a list of apps capable of displaying notifications, allowing you to toggle them on or off individually, which is helpful if you are receiving an excessive number of updates.

Is an Upgrade to Windows 8 Necessary?

Many computer users are currently considering whether an upgrade to Windows 8 is warranted. Determining the necessity of this upgrade is, truthfully, a complex decision.

If you are satisfied with the performance of Windows 7 on a modern machine, the advantages of upgrading to Windows 8 are minimal, aside from the potential cost savings of a discounted upgrade. Windows 7 excels as a traditional desktop operating system, surpassing Windows 8 in this regard.

Therefore, unless a desire to adopt the latest technology exists, or you possess a hybrid or convertible laptop with touchscreen capabilities, Windows 8 may not deliver substantial or immediately apparent enhancements – particularly after adjusting to the altered user interface.

Conversely, if you are purchasing a new computer specifically designed for Windows 8 – such as an ARM tablet running Windows 8 RT or one of the aforementioned laptop designs – you may discover Microsoft’s newest operating system to be a welcome evolution.

We suggest reviewing our comprehensive article featuring the perspectives of the entire MakeUseOf team. You can find it here: What Does MakeUseOf Think Of Windows 8?

Should you encounter any challenges during or after the upgrade process, this guide is designed to offer extensive assistance!

Appendix

1. On Windows 8 Installation

Installing Windows 8 from a disc is a relatively simple process. Provided your computer’s hardware meets the specified minimum system requirements, the installation should proceed without significant issues.

Processor: A 1 GHz processor is required, supporting PAE, NX, and SSE2 technologies, and can be either 32-bit or 64-bit.

Memory: The system needs 1 GB of RAM, though 2 GB is recommended for optimal performance.

Graphics Card: A DirectX 9 compatible graphics card with a WDDM 1.0 or higher driver is necessary.

Storage: A minimum of 20 GB of free storage space is required on the hard drive.

The installation procedure closely resembles that of Windows 7. Initially, language preferences are configured, and upon selecting Install Now, the product key is requested, alongside acceptance of the Microsoft license agreement.

Following this, a choice must be made between upgrading an existing system or performing a custom installation. For a fresh installation, the latter option should be selected, allowing for easy specification of the installation location (provided the drive or partition is sufficiently fast).

A progress bar will visually indicate the installation’s advancement. As completion nears, personalization options will appear. A preferred background color and a computer name should be chosen, and users will be presented with the options Use express settings or Customize for automatic updates, app personalization, and sharing features. Opting for customization allows for granular control over these settings.

The next step involves logging into Windows 8, utilizing either a Microsoft account or a local account. Both account types can be created, provided an internet connection is available. Upon completion, Windows 8 will prepare itself for initial use.

2. Upgrading from Previous Windows Versions

2.1 Windows XP

Alternatively, a new installation isn’t always necessary. Users with an existing, functional computer may prefer to upgrade their current Windows version.

While upgrading from Windows Vista and 7 is generally uncomplicated, upgrading from Windows XP presents more challenges.

Backing up all critical data is essential before any upgrade attempt, but it’s particularly crucial when upgrading from Windows XP. A complete data archive, followed by a hard disk drive wipe, and then a clean installation using the steps outlined previously, is highly recommended. After installation, vital data can be manually restored within the Windows 8 Desktop mode, accessing the user libraries (Documents, Pictures, Music, etc.) introduced in Vista.

2.2 Windows Vista and Windows 7

Installing Windows 8 on a computer running Vista or 7 is somewhat easier, largely due to the similarities between these operating systems.

The steps detailed in Appendix 1 of this guide should be followed, but instead of choosing the custom install option, select Upgrade. However, it’s vital to reiterate the importance of backing up data before initiating the upgrade process, as installation failures can occur, potentially rendering the computer unbootable.