What to know about Windows 8
Microsoft has now launched Windows 8, the latest version of its operating system, so you can expect to see the brandnew interface a lot more in stores from now on. If you’ve already made the move, or you’re thinking of doing so, there are some features and tips about it you might want to consider.
The Metro interface gives Windows its most radical change since Windows 95. The tile-based interface is meant to be interactive and lively, giving you access to all the applications and features you need access to most — kind of like a tablet or smartphone does. The Start menu is gone Microsoft may have cut out the recognizable Start menu in Windows 8, but that doesn’t mean you’ll feel lost. Thirdparty alternatives have already popped up, including Pokki, and Classic Shell, among several others. You can also try Desktop Mode, which looks like Windows 7, though you can pin programs to the task bar as a way to mitigate the loss of the Start menu. Sync apps and settings Part of the vision behind Windows 8 is to make the OS seamless across PCs, tablets and smartphones, and being able to sync your overall settings, bookmarks, preferences, plus the apps you’ve downloaded should make for a smooth integration. To do this, you need to log in with your Microsoft account. Find Settings in the Charms bar, then More PC Settings. Once the settings screen opens, go to Users on the left and switch accounts.
Back up your files There’s a new feature called File History that can back up all your documents, photos, bookmarks and your tile and icon placement. You’ll need to plug in an external hard drive or connect to a network drive to send the files to first. File History will recognize either one when you connect to them, so you just need to follow the steps from there to set up where the files are to back up, how often and what time you want them moved.