Windows 8

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What is Windows 8

Windows 8 is the newest operating system released by Microsoft. It features a variety of changes from the previous version, and runs across multiple devices, from computers to tablets and Windows smartphones. This Windows 8 trial version is available for download on Windows computers.

The Windows 8 trial allows you to experience the new operating system before committing to the full version. To install it, you will need a Windows computer running on Windows 7. You'll notice one of the differences from previous versions as soon as you've installed it, since Windows 8 comes with a completely new look. All applications and downloads are now shown on the screen as colored squares, which act as shortcuts to the program or file. You can group different applications together however you like. Windows 8 also allows you to change the size of each icon square, making it is easier to get to the programs you use most. If you have a lot of apps, you will have multiple pages of icons, and Windows 8 makes it easy to move them around until your favorite apps are all on the main screen.

Flash player performs much better on Windows 8 than it did on previous versions. Microsoft and Adobe created a version of Flash that will run when you need it to -- for example, when you're watching videos or playing games online -- but stops running when it is not needed. This helps save the battery life on laptops.

Windows 8 makes numerous new applications available to users. You can access the Windows Store and download specific apps onto any computer running Windows 8. Web surfing is more stable in the current version, and there is a new feature called "Flip ahead". This feature works on Internet Explorer and determines which website you are most likely to visit next. All you need to do is swipe the screen on a touch screen device, or click the forward arrow to get to the next page. Windows 8 enables quicker access to your email by allowing you to pin multiple inboxes to the start screen.

Windows 8 is a step up from previous versions offered by Microsoft. The new interface will take a while to get used to, but it makes accessing your files and programs much simpler. This version runs better with touch screen capabilities. If you're nostalgic for the old look, you can change the appearance of Windows 8 back to that of older versions.

Pros

• Modern design similar to that of Windows tablets and smartphones
• Stable and quick platform
• Includes new apps from the Windows store
• Supports traditional applications
• Option to change the look back to that of Windows 7
• Flash only runs when it is needed

Cons

• Takes time to get used to
• Works better on touch screen computers
• Many system requirements needed
• Cannot be upgraded from Windows Vista or earlier