A Comprehensive Review Of Microsoft Windows 8
Developed by Microsoft, Windows 8 already comprises of more than 300 features that makes it appealing and interesting. The company has introduced major changes to the user interface and the operating system’s platform so as to enhance the user experience on several devices such as tablets and desktop PCs. The operating system was released to build up on August 1, 2012 and for general availability, it was brought out on 26th Oct, 2012.
Until Windows 8 evolves into a better product, (hopefully after the release of Windows 8.1) Microsoft continues to devise plans to keep adding new features to the OS.
Enhanced Search Function
Microsoft Windows 8 has no search box at the bottom of the start menu and it does not even have the trademark Start menu. However, that does not mean there is no convenient search function available. You just have to type anything and the search box will show up from the right. In fact, the search competency is even stronger this time and displays all the matching files. You can view the Search functionality via the Charms Bar with the hotkey Windows+C.
Windows Live Syncing
The new Windows 8 also provides Windows Live Syncing similar to Windows To Go. Users just simply have to login on any Windows 8 PC with Live ID and get back their own customized settings on it. No doubt, the desktop will look the same each and every time user logs in on a PC with the Windows Live account. When user has all the important settings, migrating to a new PC can be easier and simpler.
Speedy Boot Time
Over the Windows predecessors, the boot up and loading speed has greatly improved. This happens due to the best resource allocations to the system and apps. Thus, as compared to the Windows 7 desktop CPU, 8 has a speedier boot time as it employs the methods of hibernating the kernel system when you shut down so that it becomes partially dormant.
Cloud Integration
The Windows 8 Explorer Interface recommends that it has an access to Microsoft’s cloud service Sky Drive. SkyDrive is an online storage space that you can place your documents in and offers up to 7GB of free cloud storage. In Windows 8.1. SkyDrive also acts as a hard drive (so to speak).
Dynamic And Unique Desktop
Upon logging into Windows 8, the Metro UI and the tile based interface is the first thing you will see. The UI seems to go with an intuitive manner with touchscreen devices such as: Smartphones and tablets. The grid layout seems to help such interactions. It is needless to say that you can personalize the grid by arranging and adding apps.
Criticism aside, Windows does have a few very nifty features and it takes half the time of installation as compared to Windows 7. It provides its users scalability, manageability and optimum performance, however, we can deem it less user friendly for desktop users.
To find out about the new features of the Windows 8.1 OS, see this post: Detailed Overview Of Windows 8.1 Features.