Windows 8

Pros

• Sharp Contemporary Design
• Exceptionally Stable
• Native Metro Apps
• Supports Desktop Apps
• Appealing UI

Cons

• Optimized Only For Touch-Screens
• Requires Adjustment Period For Metro UI

Windows 8 is an operating system from Microsoft that steps into the world of tablets and mobile touchscreen devices. It has a number of new features added since Windows 7, and it runs faster. The interface is optimized for touchscreen devices, and there are several dedicated apps built-in.

There are four versions of Windows 8, and each is designed for a different sect of user. The versions include Home, Business, Pro, and Enterprise.

In this version of Windows, you'll have access to Windows Store Apps that have been designed for tablet utility. Using Snap mode, you can simultaneously run two apps on the same large display. Pre-installed apps include Windows Media Player, Camera, Calendar, Mail, and a dedicated photo album.

Internet Explorer 10 is also pre-installed. To make full control on the touchscreen interface easier, functions like Task Manager and Windows Explorer have been revamped for gesture control. There's also a System Restore function that will reset the OS to its default state. You can also select to reinstall the OS while keeping all your settings and downloaded apps.

You'll get Windows Media Center with Windows 8 as well. The new encryption system for files is superb, and you'll get Windows Remote Desktop Server. With all these tools, you can take advantage of virtual computers, full BitLocker encryption, and easy connection to domains with Windows systems.

Home users who want to test out Windows 8 Enterprise can do so for 90 days with the available ISO file. It's meant to give developers a sense of the capabilities of the system, but anyone can try it.

This operating system is designed primarily for use with touchscreen devices. A quick tap of the screen will get you started with Windows Store Apps, and you can set tiles to see social networking news, emails, weather, and more. If you want to go back to a traditional desktop format, you can do so by swiping your finger or pressing the dedicated Windows button. If you're using a tablet or other device without a physical keyboard, the operating system provides a digital on-screen keyboard.

While many users will instantly recognize the traditional desktop layout, the new UI designed for touchscreen systems is unique and may take some time to learn. The tile navigation system is fairly intuitive, and there are more subtle changes under the hood. Higher performance is now possible thanks to the streamlined file system.

Windows 8 completely changes the way the famous OS deals with devices. It was built to use fewer system resources, so it runs faster and allows for more multitasking. Once you get accustomed to the new UI, you'll be surprised how much you enjoy using Windows 8. This is an excellent transitioning tool for users who are wary of abandoning their desktop.

Pros

• Sharp Contemporary Design
• Exceptionally Stable
• Native Metro Apps
• Supports Desktop Apps
• Appealing UI

Cons

• Optimized Only For Touch-Screens
• Requires Adjustment Period For Metro UI