Networking Windows 8.1 Product Key Pro Online Digital License

Original Windows Computer Software Windows 8.1 Product Key On Sale

THE GOOD Windows 8.1 adds many useful tweaks and fixes, including a new version of the missing Start button, better searching, the ability to boot directly to the desktop, and a much-improved app store. Plus, it's free for current Windows 8 users.

THE BAD The split between the touch-friendly tiles and throwback desktop mode is still awkward, and the OS is hard to use without a touch screen. While welcome, the new Start button doesn't behave like the classic version, and the Windows app store still lacks serious software, especially for gamers.

THE BOTTOM LINE If you're a dedicated Windows 8 hater, the update to Windows 8.1 isn't going to change your mind. For everyone else, this collection of tweaks, fixes, and new features is useful, but everything here should have shipped in the original version last year.

How to prepare your Windows 8 PC for Windows 8.1?

Windows 8.1 is set to arrive later this week as a free update to Windows 8 via the Windows Store. Windows 8.1 has several new features, including being able to boot directly to the desktop as well as the return of the Start button.

As with any major update, taking a few moments to prepare for it will go a long way to ensuring a smooth update. Here are a few ste you can take to make sure your update to Windows 8.1goes without a hitch:

Compare Windows 7 to Windows 8.1

	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
The familiar desktop	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Works with a mouse and keyboard	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Works with Word, Excel, Outlook, and other familiar programs	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Built for touch PCs and tablets	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Ap from the Windows Store	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Mail, People, and other built-in ap	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Keep your settings and ap on all your PCs and devices	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Bing smart search to find things across the web, ap, and your PC	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Start screen with live updates	Windows 7	Windows 8.1
Faster startup times	Windows 7	Windows 8.1