Windows 8.1 - What options are available? On

Short list of options

Microsoft just released the long-awaited Windows 8.1. It's free for existing Windows 8 users and should soon be available by default on any new computer. - See more at: http://www.komando.com/tips/index.aspx?id=15417#sthash.MYIQZQoA.dpuf

Let's start with updating from Windows 8; it isn't hard. From the Windows 8 Start screen, open the Windows Store. It will let you know Windows 8.1 is available.

It's a large update, so it will take a while to download. Fortunately, you can keep using your computer in the meantime. Once the update finishes downloading, you'll receive further instructions.

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Once Windows 8.1 is installed, the first thing you'll see is a demo with helpful hints for using Windows 8.1. Yes, Microsoft finally included instructions.

You can go through the tutorial right away. If you want to save it for later, or have more questions, open the Help + Tips app in the Start screen.

Next, you can start customizing. One of the first things you'll notice is that 8.1 still boots to the Start screen instead of the Desktop.

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From the Start screen, click the Desktop app icon, or click the Start button in the lower left screen corner, to bring up the Desktop. Then right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen and choose Properties.

Go to the Navigation tab and check the "When I sign in or close all apps on the screen, go to the desktop instead of Start" option. Now the computer will boot to the Desktop. That will make it feel more like the Windows you know. - See more at: http://www.komando.com/tips/index.aspx?id=15417&page=3#sthash.wddeDvHr.dpuf