An Introduction to Windows 8.
This is a sample of the reference book for instructional training in Windows 8. The pages have been selected randomly for download, hence the document may not be in its correct order (page numbers) when viewing.
This document provides instructions for installing VirtualDJ 8 software. It explains how to download the installation file, run the installer, and complete the setup process, which differs slightly between Windows and Mac OS. The document also introduces some of VirtualDJ 8's new features and provides information on account creation. System requirements and legal terms are outlined at the end.
Microsoft announced Windows 10 free for existing users. Windows 10 combines the best of Windows 7 with Windows 8, providing a familiar upgrade experience. It includes a new Start menu, Cortana digital assistant, Edge web browser, and various built-in apps. For tablets and touch devices, Windows 10 offers Tablet mode for easier touch interaction and Continuum for automatic switching between tablet and desktop modes. Users can manage their Microsoft Store account and payment options to purchase apps and content.
Windows 8 introduced a new Modern UI start screen and removed the traditional start menu. It added new features like the Windows Store, new security features, and support for touchscreens. Many personalization options and desktop gadgets were removed. File Explorer received a ribbon toolbar, and Media Center was made a paid add-on rather than included by default. Overall, Windows 8 shifted the interface to focus on touch-optimized apps and de-emphasized the traditional desktop.
This document provides instructions for upgrading to or installing Windows 7 using either the Upgrade or Custom installation options. The Upgrade option keeps existing files and settings, while Custom deletes programs and settings, requiring reinstallation of programs after installation. It outlines preparation steps like backing up files and finding the product key. For Upgrade, it describes starting the computer normally and following prompts. For Custom, it warns that all data will be deleted and provides instructions for selecting partitions.
This document provides step-by-step instructions for installing OpenMeetings 2.X on Windows XP/7 32/64-bit systems. It includes installing Windows, updating it to SP3, installing required programs like Java, MySQL, Apache Ant, and configuring the OpenMeetings source code compilation and initial configuration. The 20 steps cover all aspects of the installation from the basic Windows setup to getting OpenMeetings running on the local webserver.
This document provides a table of contents for topics related to professional experience, skills, and software/cloud storage experience. It includes sections on resume, Windows 8.1, photo editing, road trips, handouts, business cards, medical experience, Excel databases, open source healthcare experience, various software experiences, OneDrive, Google Drive, cloud storage, military experience, education, references, and directions. The overall document discusses a versatile individual's technical skills and experience that could benefit an organization.
Windows 8 provides a touch-friendly interface that allows users to seamlessly switch between touch, mouse, and keyboard input. The Start screen centralizes access to apps, contacts, and updates. Apps can work together to share content across devices. Windows 8 also includes the familiar desktop interface from Windows 7 alongside the new touch-based interface.
Handbook word processing_microsoft_word_2010MichaelRamoga1
This document provides instructions for basic tasks in Microsoft Word 2010, including how to open and close documents, save files, format text, insert objects like pictures and tables, use mail merge, adjust print settings, and search and replace text. It explains how to perform operations like selecting text, entering content, and switching between views. The document aims to help users learn and master basic computer skills for using Word processing software.
This document provides instructions for installing VirtualDJ 8 software. It explains how to download the installation file, run the installer, and complete the setup process, which differs slightly between Windows and Mac OS. The document also introduces some of VirtualDJ 8's new features and provides information on account creation. System requirements and legal terms are outlined at the end.
Microsoft announced Windows 10 free for existing users. Windows 10 combines the best of Windows 7 with Windows 8, providing a familiar upgrade experience. It includes a new Start menu, Cortana digital assistant, Edge web browser, and various built-in apps. For tablets and touch devices, Windows 10 offers Tablet mode for easier touch interaction and Continuum for automatic switching between tablet and desktop modes. Users can manage their Microsoft Store account and payment options to purchase apps and content.
Windows 8 introduced a new Modern UI start screen and removed the traditional start menu. It added new features like the Windows Store, new security features, and support for touchscreens. Many personalization options and desktop gadgets were removed. File Explorer received a ribbon toolbar, and Media Center was made a paid add-on rather than included by default. Overall, Windows 8 shifted the interface to focus on touch-optimized apps and de-emphasized the traditional desktop.
This document provides instructions for upgrading to or installing Windows 7 using either the Upgrade or Custom installation options. The Upgrade option keeps existing files and settings, while Custom deletes programs and settings, requiring reinstallation of programs after installation. It outlines preparation steps like backing up files and finding the product key. For Upgrade, it describes starting the computer normally and following prompts. For Custom, it warns that all data will be deleted and provides instructions for selecting partitions.
This document provides step-by-step instructions for installing OpenMeetings 2.X on Windows XP/7 32/64-bit systems. It includes installing Windows, updating it to SP3, installing required programs like Java, MySQL, Apache Ant, and configuring the OpenMeetings source code compilation and initial configuration. The 20 steps cover all aspects of the installation from the basic Windows setup to getting OpenMeetings running on the local webserver.
This document provides a table of contents for topics related to professional experience, skills, and software/cloud storage experience. It includes sections on resume, Windows 8.1, photo editing, road trips, handouts, business cards, medical experience, Excel databases, open source healthcare experience, various software experiences, OneDrive, Google Drive, cloud storage, military experience, education, references, and directions. The overall document discusses a versatile individual's technical skills and experience that could benefit an organization.
Windows 8 provides a touch-friendly interface that allows users to seamlessly switch between touch, mouse, and keyboard input. The Start screen centralizes access to apps, contacts, and updates. Apps can work together to share content across devices. Windows 8 also includes the familiar desktop interface from Windows 7 alongside the new touch-based interface.
Handbook word processing_microsoft_word_2010MichaelRamoga1
This document provides instructions for basic tasks in Microsoft Word 2010, including how to open and close documents, save files, format text, insert objects like pictures and tables, use mail merge, adjust print settings, and search and replace text. It explains how to perform operations like selecting text, entering content, and switching between views. The document aims to help users learn and master basic computer skills for using Word processing software.
Pure Innovations is a not-for-profit organization that provides supported employment services to disadvantaged groups. They have over 24 years of experience in supported employment and modernizing day services. They work with employers to find jobs for individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment by addressing employers' concerns and promoting reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Pure Innovations takes a person-centered approach to supported employment, with a focus on job matching, developing work plans, workplace training, and ongoing support. Their Project SEARCH program partners with employers and education providers to provide real-world job training to students with disabilities.
An Introduction to Windows 8.
This download contains a collection of random pages from my book - An Introduction to Windows 8. This is to ensure that the publication is not manipulated. The pages are not in the correct order in some instances, while the pdf quality is low.
This document provides a guide to using Windows 8. It begins with an overview of the new Windows 8 interface and differences from previous versions. It describes the Metro interface and tiles, and how to navigate using touch, mouse, or keyboard. It then covers various apps and functions in Windows 8 like the Store, desktop mode, settings, and troubleshooting. The guide aims to help users understand and make the most of the new Windows 8 operating system.
Windows 8 introduces significant changes focused on improving the user experience on mobile devices like tablets. It includes a new Start screen interface designed for both touchscreens and mouse/keyboard. The Start screen displays tiles connected to apps, files, and websites that update in real-time. Windows 8 also allows users to access files, apps, and settings from any device by signing in with a Microsoft account and connecting to the cloud.
This document provides an overview and analysis of the Windows 8 operating system. It begins with an introduction discussing the development and release of Windows 8. The next sections describe the key hardware requirements, development platforms and features of Windows 8, such as the startup screen, syncing capabilities and multi-tasking. Some removed features from previous Windows versions are also noted. The document then evaluates weaknesses of Windows 8 and provides a concluding paragraph stating Windows 8 will provide strong competition in the mobile market but the changed desktop interface may not be welcomed by all.
Windows 8 is a new operating system produced by Microsoft for use on personal computers including desktops, laptops, tablets and more. Development began before 2009 and it was announced in 2011. It has a new Metro UI interface focused on touchscreens. Windows 8 works on similar hardware as Windows 7 but requires more RAM and graphics capabilities for certain features. It received mixed reviews, with praise for its performance but criticism for its new interface being difficult to understand. In a poll, 45% said they would upgrade to Windows 8 while 25% wanted to test it first and 20% preferred to stick with Windows 7.
Windows 10 is growing in popularity but has not surpassed Windows 7 yet, with Windows 7 still having over 40% of the desktop market share. While Windows 10 introduces new features like the Cortana assistant and a redesigned Start menu with live tiles, many users have remained on Windows 7 out of concerns over technical problems or missing features when upgrading. The document provides details on how features like searching, apps, browsers, and multitasking compare between Windows 7 and Windows 10.
This document provides instructions for installing the Windows 7 operating system on a computer. It begins with background information on operating systems and what they do. It then discusses specifics about Windows 7, including its system requirements and the different installation options. The main part of the document outlines the step-by-step process for doing a clean installation of Windows 7 from a bootable USB drive, with 15 separate steps. It concludes by providing additional learning resources on installing Windows 7 and questions to check understanding.
This document provides an overview and introduction to Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview. It summarizes some of the new features and enhancements in these updates, including making the experience more personal, adding more apps, integrating more cloud services like SkyDrive, supporting more devices, and offering free downloads from Windows 8 PCs. It also discusses personalizing the experience across devices by using a Microsoft account to sync settings and connect services.
This document provides an overview and introduction to Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview. It summarizes key new features and enhancements including making the experience more personal and vibrant with more apps, integrating more of the cloud and web through services like SkyDrive, and supporting more devices with continued hardware innovation. It also discusses how the experience can be customized and made unique, and how settings and content can sync across devices when signed in with a Microsoft account.
Microsoft makes no warranties with respect to information in the document. Images and features described may change before commercial release. Some apps or features described may not be included in Windows 8.1 Preview and may change before commercial release. The document introduces Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview and describes new features including enhanced personalization, more apps, integration with Microsoft services like SkyDrive, and new devices.
Microsoft makes no warranties with respect to information in the document. Images and features described may be modified before commercial release. Some apps or features described may not be included in Windows 8.1 Preview and may be modified before commercial release. The document is a Windows 8.1 Preview product guide copyright 2013 by Microsoft Corporation.
The document provides an overview of Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview. It summarizes that Windows 8.1 Preview enhances the Windows 8 experience by making it more personal, adding more apps, integrating more cloud services like SkyDrive, and supporting more devices. It also notes that Windows 8.1 Preview can be downloaded for free from the Windows Store on existing Windows 8 devices.
Windows 8 introduces a "dual-mode" operating system with both a traditional desktop interface and a new "modern" or "tablet-style" interface. It aims to unite PCs, laptops, and mobile devices with a consistent experience across platforms. The modern interface features large tiles for launching apps in a touch-friendly layout, while the desktop interface functions similarly to Windows 7. Windows 8 also syncs user data and settings via integrated cloud services. Businesses can benefit from its touchscreen usability, networking features, dual monitor support, and security tools like Windows Defender.
Windows 7 is available in several editions to suit different needs. The main editions are Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate. Starter is for basic needs while Home Premium focuses on entertainment. Professional adds business features and Enterprise/Ultimate include all features. The document provides details on the features included in each edition.
Microsoft will end support for Windows XP on April 8, 2014. This means that computers running Windows XP will no longer receive security updates or maintenance updates from Microsoft to protect against viruses and ensure compatibility. Without these updates, Windows XP PCs become more vulnerable to security risks over time and may have reduced performance and compatibility. Microsoft recommends upgrading to a newer version of Windows such as Windows 8 or 8.1 to avoid these issues.
Pure Innovations is a not-for-profit organization that provides supported employment services to disadvantaged groups. They have over 24 years of experience in supported employment and modernizing day services. They work with employers to find jobs for individuals with disabilities or other barriers to employment by addressing employers' concerns and promoting reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Pure Innovations takes a person-centered approach to supported employment, with a focus on job matching, developing work plans, workplace training, and ongoing support. Their Project SEARCH program partners with employers and education providers to provide real-world job training to students with disabilities.
An Introduction to Windows 8.
This download contains a collection of random pages from my book - An Introduction to Windows 8. This is to ensure that the publication is not manipulated. The pages are not in the correct order in some instances, while the pdf quality is low.
This document provides a guide to using Windows 8. It begins with an overview of the new Windows 8 interface and differences from previous versions. It describes the Metro interface and tiles, and how to navigate using touch, mouse, or keyboard. It then covers various apps and functions in Windows 8 like the Store, desktop mode, settings, and troubleshooting. The guide aims to help users understand and make the most of the new Windows 8 operating system.
Windows 8 introduces significant changes focused on improving the user experience on mobile devices like tablets. It includes a new Start screen interface designed for both touchscreens and mouse/keyboard. The Start screen displays tiles connected to apps, files, and websites that update in real-time. Windows 8 also allows users to access files, apps, and settings from any device by signing in with a Microsoft account and connecting to the cloud.
This document provides an overview and analysis of the Windows 8 operating system. It begins with an introduction discussing the development and release of Windows 8. The next sections describe the key hardware requirements, development platforms and features of Windows 8, such as the startup screen, syncing capabilities and multi-tasking. Some removed features from previous Windows versions are also noted. The document then evaluates weaknesses of Windows 8 and provides a concluding paragraph stating Windows 8 will provide strong competition in the mobile market but the changed desktop interface may not be welcomed by all.
Windows 8 is a new operating system produced by Microsoft for use on personal computers including desktops, laptops, tablets and more. Development began before 2009 and it was announced in 2011. It has a new Metro UI interface focused on touchscreens. Windows 8 works on similar hardware as Windows 7 but requires more RAM and graphics capabilities for certain features. It received mixed reviews, with praise for its performance but criticism for its new interface being difficult to understand. In a poll, 45% said they would upgrade to Windows 8 while 25% wanted to test it first and 20% preferred to stick with Windows 7.
Windows 10 is growing in popularity but has not surpassed Windows 7 yet, with Windows 7 still having over 40% of the desktop market share. While Windows 10 introduces new features like the Cortana assistant and a redesigned Start menu with live tiles, many users have remained on Windows 7 out of concerns over technical problems or missing features when upgrading. The document provides details on how features like searching, apps, browsers, and multitasking compare between Windows 7 and Windows 10.
This document provides instructions for installing the Windows 7 operating system on a computer. It begins with background information on operating systems and what they do. It then discusses specifics about Windows 7, including its system requirements and the different installation options. The main part of the document outlines the step-by-step process for doing a clean installation of Windows 7 from a bootable USB drive, with 15 separate steps. It concludes by providing additional learning resources on installing Windows 7 and questions to check understanding.
This document provides an overview and introduction to Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview. It summarizes some of the new features and enhancements in these updates, including making the experience more personal, adding more apps, integrating more cloud services like SkyDrive, supporting more devices, and offering free downloads from Windows 8 PCs. It also discusses personalizing the experience across devices by using a Microsoft account to sync settings and connect services.
This document provides an overview and introduction to Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview. It summarizes key new features and enhancements including making the experience more personal and vibrant with more apps, integrating more of the cloud and web through services like SkyDrive, and supporting more devices with continued hardware innovation. It also discusses how the experience can be customized and made unique, and how settings and content can sync across devices when signed in with a Microsoft account.
Microsoft makes no warranties with respect to information in the document. Images and features described may change before commercial release. Some apps or features described may not be included in Windows 8.1 Preview and may change before commercial release. The document introduces Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview and describes new features including enhanced personalization, more apps, integration with Microsoft services like SkyDrive, and new devices.
Microsoft makes no warranties with respect to information in the document. Images and features described may be modified before commercial release. Some apps or features described may not be included in Windows 8.1 Preview and may be modified before commercial release. The document is a Windows 8.1 Preview product guide copyright 2013 by Microsoft Corporation.
The document provides an overview of Windows 8.1 Preview and Windows RT 8.1 Preview. It summarizes that Windows 8.1 Preview enhances the Windows 8 experience by making it more personal, adding more apps, integrating more cloud services like SkyDrive, and supporting more devices. It also notes that Windows 8.1 Preview can be downloaded for free from the Windows Store on existing Windows 8 devices.
Windows 8 introduces a "dual-mode" operating system with both a traditional desktop interface and a new "modern" or "tablet-style" interface. It aims to unite PCs, laptops, and mobile devices with a consistent experience across platforms. The modern interface features large tiles for launching apps in a touch-friendly layout, while the desktop interface functions similarly to Windows 7. Windows 8 also syncs user data and settings via integrated cloud services. Businesses can benefit from its touchscreen usability, networking features, dual monitor support, and security tools like Windows Defender.
Windows 7 is available in several editions to suit different needs. The main editions are Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional, Enterprise and Ultimate. Starter is for basic needs while Home Premium focuses on entertainment. Professional adds business features and Enterprise/Ultimate include all features. The document provides details on the features included in each edition.
Microsoft will end support for Windows XP on April 8, 2014. This means that computers running Windows XP will no longer receive security updates or maintenance updates from Microsoft to protect against viruses and ensure compatibility. Without these updates, Windows XP PCs become more vulnerable to security risks over time and may have reduced performance and compatibility. Microsoft recommends upgrading to a newer version of Windows such as Windows 8 or 8.1 to avoid these issues.
The document provides an overview of the Windows 8 operating system from Microsoft. It discusses key features such as the Metro interface with live tiles, the ability to run desktop and Metro apps side by side, gestures for app management, cloud integration and synchronization across devices, security features like picture passwords, and options for repairing the operating system. The Windows 8 app platform allows development of Metro apps using HTML, JavaScript, and other common languages, which can be distributed through the new Windows Store.
Windows has evolved significantly since its initial release in 1985. It launched with Windows 1.0 and saw greater success with Windows 3 and 95 which introduced innovations like the Start button. Windows 7 and 8 were major releases that improved performance and introduced new interfaces, with Windows 8 adding a touch-focused Metro interface alongside the traditional desktop. Key differences between Windows 7 and 8 include hardware requirements, interfaces, search functionality, apps/stores, security features, and cloud integration. While the Metro interface was a significant change, many performance improvements were made in Windows 8.
Windows 7 improves the fundamental user experience by making tasks faster and easier through enhancements like the taskbar, jump lists, and touch support. It also provides improved security, reliability, and battery life. Windows 7 allows for easier management and deployment for IT professionals through features like DirectAccess, search federation, and the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool.
Windows 10 is Microsoft's latest operating system that offers improvements over previous versions like Windows 8 such as a redesigned Start menu, the new Microsoft Edge browser, the Cortana digital assistant, multiple desktops and task view features, an expanded Action Center, and distinct modes for desktop and tablet use. The document provides an overview of the key features and differences of Windows 10 compared to earlier Windows versions as well as how to perform basic functions like renaming files and folders, cutting/copying and pasting, and viewing computer specifications. It also includes sample questions and answers about Windows 10 features and functions.
Windows 10 is Microsoft's latest operating system that provides improvements over previous versions like Windows 8 such as a redesigned Start menu and new features like Cortana, multiple desktops, and tablet mode. It also introduces new apps and technologies including the Microsoft Edge browser and an updated Action Center. The document further describes the key differences between Windows 10 and earlier versions of Windows as well as how to perform basic file management tasks in Windows 10.
This document provides a summary of key features and capabilities of Windows 8 for business users. It discusses how Windows 8 supports changing work environments and mobile productivity with features like the new user interface, touch and gesture support, and enhanced security. It also covers manageability and virtualization improvements, opportunities for developing and deploying line-of-business apps, and connectivity options like DirectAccess, mobile broadband, and BranchCache that enable productivity for remote workers. The document concludes with a discussion of cloud-connected features in Windows 8.
3. Preface
To the first time user, the beautiful yet seemingly strange Metro User Interface of a Windows 8 computer
can create nothing more than instant confusion or setback for commencing even the most basic tasks.
Windows 8 has no Start Menu to launch your programs, and no desktop in view as you would have
been used-to in other earlier versions of Windows. Instead, you are greeted with a screen of rectan-
gular-type Tiles, completed by a series of features that requires that you point your mouse or fingers
to specific locations on your computer screen to access some new and previous known features.
For most Windows 8 Applications, there is no Red X to close the program after you are finish using it,
and no need to press the enter key when entering passwords or to effect a search; - as Windows 8
has a smart feature that instantly recognises your desire to execute a search, etc with the Enter key.
These multitudes of flexibilities in Windows 8 have showed some of the ways Microsoft has reengi-
neered the Windows interface for a new generation of touch-centric hardware, and a generation of
users who craves for a more simplified yet futuristic Operating System, that would be smart enough to
better serve the technological needs of mankind.
For a novice, and even the average computer user, the functional nature of Windows 8 may seem to
be nothing more than a technology drawn from an advance alien planet.
However, while this new Operating System is not as complex as it may seem, it can nonetheless scare
even the most hardcore computer user away with its seemingly strange smart-feature abilities, and
Metro Star Screen appearance.
Hence, this Reference Book is intended to address the possible challenges that can be faced by first
time users of the Windows 8 Operating System.
This book examines most of the basic elements of Windows 8, by taking the user on a graphic instruc-
tional journey that would give them a full pictured understanding and guide on how to use the Operating
system, and all other factors relevant to its use, at the basic level.
You will agree that Windows 8 is probably the most sought after Operating System since Windows XP,
and Windows Seven. However, unlike its predecessors, Windows 8 is the first multi-device Operating
System to be unveiled by Microsoft, and the first to abandon the necessity of the desktop.
Nonetheless, the fact that you have acquired a copy of this reference book, is testimony that you would
more than likely be a knowledgeable user of Windows 8, before the end of the day. Keep reading.
A
4. Table of Contents
What is Windows 8 Page 01
Getting Windows 8 unto your computer Page 02
Step 1 – Preparing to Install Page 03
Minimum system requirements Page 04
Step 2 – Personal considerations Page 05
Step 3 – Method of installation Page 06
Step 4 – Installing Windows 8 Page 07
Understanding the Windows desktop Page 016
Composition of the Windows 8 desktop Page 017
Elements of the Windows 8 desktop Page 020
Powering off your Windows 8 PC Page 025
Windows 8 – First use Page 027
How to add Tiles to your Metro interface Page 029
Windows 8 PC settings Page 032
How to turn on system protection Page 037
How to configure parental controls Page 040
How to set picture password Page 044
How to Reset or Refresh a Windows 8 PC Page 047
How to start a program in Windows 8 Page 051
How to close an App in Windows 8 Page 052
A list of Windows 8 shortcuts Page 053
Windows 8 – Our conclusion Page 054
B
5. Getting Windows 8 unto your computer
Windows 8 is capable of running on desktop computers, laptops, tablets pc, touch screen devices,
portable gadgets, and on dozens of other devices that were previously unable to run any of the earlier
versions of Microsft’s Windows, namely Windows XP, Vista and 7.
And while Windows 8 supports more devices, the question is; How do you get it unto your Computer.
While simply buying a computer with Windows 8 bundled unto to it may seem like the best option, this
may be far fetched for now. Because for the remainder of 2012 and even the first half of 2013, most
computers would not have been shipped with Windows 8 pre-installed, as Microsoft is more focused
on a global online upgrade of the current millions of computers that currently uses the Vista and Window
7 range of Operating systems worldwide.
While a large percentage of computers can upgrade to Windows 8 via a Windows online portal, pro-
viding that the user’s current Vista or 7 OS passes the genuine Windows test, most installations of the
Windows 8 Operating system is usually done by what is known as a standalone installation.
A Standalone installation encompasses any method used (primarily DVD, Flash drive, etc) to install
the Operating system software unto a computer, in the absence of a direct internet install or a direct
networking installation.
This type of installation is also preferred because it is about twenty times faster; it reduces the risk of
faulty installation caused by dropped internet connection data packets, and prevents possible installa-
tion interruption as a result of unreliable or inadvertent loss of internet connectivity.
Taking the above factors into account, you would more than likely have to personally install your desired
version of Windows 8 unto your desktop computer, laptop or tablet device, or fork out a relatively large
cache of finance to pay a consultant to do something that you could have probably done yourself.
But whatever your choices may be, an understanding of the installation process is nonetheless an im-
portant factor. Hence, in this first section of the lesson, we would focus on the installation process
before discussing the other elements or any user related details about Windows 8.
002
6. Step 1 - Preparing to Install
Is your computer physically fit?
Whenever you are looking to install new software, especially a new operating system, your first step
should be to review the system requirements.
The system requirements is a manual or sometimes software automatic pre-checking process, that is
used to determine whether a computer has the hardware capacity, speed, and other technical require-
ments to run a software. In other words, you have to determine if your computer is fit for an OS upgrade.
Some software, including Windows 8, would automatically check your PC system specifications and
would subsequently advise you whether your computer is ready for the new Windows installation. This
is usually done by the software automatically displaying a report after its system compatibility check.
003
7. Understanding the Windows 8 desktop
Once you would have started (or finish installing) Windows 8, you would have notice a desktop that is
almost alien to previous versions of Windows, such as Vista and 7.
Interestingly, the desktop in Windows 8 is called a “Start screen”. Hence the use of the word “desktop”
is technologically outdated when refering to a computer of device loaded with this Operating System.
The Start Screen
The Start screen features a Metro-style user interface borrowed from the Windows Phone 7, and looks
completely different from the predecessor versions of Windows.
The multicolored squares and rectangle tiles, each representing a user application, can be rearranged
by touch drag and drop.
--The Start screen also features the ability to show a dashboard type extract from a favorite news feed,
stock market report, or weather feed, each in their own tile and with the latest, updated information.
016
8. Composition of the Windows 8 desktop
As explained earlier, the Windows 8 desktop is more referred to as the “Metro Interface” or “Start
Screen”, rather than the commonly used ‘desktop” terminology. As a matter of fact, the desktop is more
or less accessible from the Metro Interface, as is basically a part of the collection of features accessible
from this Start Screen.
However, for the benefit of this book, we would continue to use the term “desktop” interchangeably.
This Metro Interface is the main visual gateway that Windows 8 users will use to launch most applica-
tions, search for files, access their desired programs and browse the web.
017
9. Now supposing that you had successfully login, a brief “welcome” message would first appear where
the password field was, along with an animated loading icon.
After two or three seconds, depending on your PC’s specifications, you would be greeted by the new
Windows Metro Welcome Screen, along with a listing of Tiles (and apps) by default.
The default tiles would include a shortcut to your desktop, links to the control panel, a social networking
gateway, and other Windows 8 essentials.
028
10. How to turn on system protection in Windows 8
System protection is a Windows 8 feature that recurrently generates and saves information about your
computer’s system files and settings.
System protection also saves previous versions of files that you’ve modified for future restoration if
something goes wrong with your PC’s operating system software or drivers.
It saves these files in restore points, which are created just before significant system events, such as
the installation of a new Metro Interface App or device driver. They’re also created automatically once
every seven days if no other restore points were created in the previous seven days. However, you
can create restore points manually at any time.
If you wish to enable system protection in Windows 8, please take the following steps; - First, click on
Start to open Windows 8 Metro UI screen and then select CONTROL PANEL as shown below.
038
11. How to Set Picture Password in Windows 8
In Windows 8, there are three ways to create a security login to access your computer. We had pre-
viously discussed login via your Windows Live Roam ID, and the traditional system password method.
Hence, in this tutorial we shall discuss and demonstrate how to create a picture password in windows
8, to use solely or collectively with your your other login options.
Picture password is a secure method that no one can decipher that easily. You can choose any picture
from your computer hard drive and use your own gestures on the picture and set a password.
To set a Picture password, please follow the steps below.
Step 1:
Open control panel by clicking on the Orb button and via the control panel Tile on metro Start Screen.
044
12. How to Refresh or Reset a Windows 8 PC
While Operating Systems are built with the intention of running your computer trouble-free, there is al-
ways the possibility of things going wrong with your PC.
From corrupt Operating System files to aggressive virus infections, malware and other discrepancies,
we all know that at some point many factors can hinder your PC’s performance.
And While Windows 8 may be a relatively stable Operating System, Microsoft have decided to arm it
with an option that would allow even the most computer naive person to fix their PC troubles or reload
their computer Operating System to a brand new state by the click of a button, and within minutes.
Hence, whenever your windows 8 PC is running slow or seem to be giving you some trouble, you can
reset the entire operating system or refresh your system to get optimum performance.
On completion of this process (and depending upon which option you choose) all your PC settings will
be restored to the Windows factory settings, thus allowing you to continue working with an almost new
copy of the windows 8 operating system.
However, most Windows 8 users would prefer to “refresh” their windows PC rather than resetting it.
After all, If you “reset” your windows PC then all your documents, pictures, files and installed programs
and apps will be removed. But if you “refresh” then only the Windows 8 settings will be replaced with
an almost renewed copy of the Operating System, while all your files, documents, programs and apps
will remain unaffected.
Nonetheless, to Refresh or Reset the Windows 8 Operating System, please follow the instructions
hereafter (and be mindful of which option you choose) ;
Step 1:
Open your control panes from metro interface screen and click on the “more settings link.”
047