Bits from Bill
The Four Faces(Versions) of Windows 8
Instead of having one interface(“Windows Store” formerly Metro) for tablets and a separate one (Desktop) for traditional programs, Microsoft has chosen to include both interfaces in Windows 8. Instead of discussing the interface usability I’ll start with the versions of Windows 8 available.
Understanding the varieties of Windows 8 can be a little confusing even for the experts so I’m going to try and explain it as simple as possible.
There are four versions of Windows 8. Which one you choose may be pre-determined for you.
1) Windows 8 RT (once called Windows on ARM)
If you have purchased a new tablet or similar touchy device and you like the new tiled, Windows Store, interface then a Windows RT device may meet your needs. This version isn’t sold by itself. Currently it only comes with a new device. This version won’t run standard Windows applications on its Desktop with the exception of a few provided by Microsoft. All applications must be re-created to run under an “ARM” processor commonly used in tablets and phones. New apps will be available for download and purchase in the Windows 8 Store.
2) Windows 8
For most people currently using Windows, this is the cheapest upgrade path. If you’re buying a new tablet, Ultrabook, laptop or desktop computer this may be the default version of Windows included. This version includes the new tile or “Windows Store” interface but also includes the normal Windows desktop minus a Start button. Most of the applications that run on Windows 7 will continue to work on Windows 8.
3) Windows 8 Pro
This will be the most popular upgrade path since it includes all the professional features including BitLocker, BitLockerToGo, Client Hyper-V, Domain Join, Encrypting File System, Group Policy, Remote Desktop(host), Boot from VHD. This version also includes both the Windows Store and familiar Windows desktop.
4) Windows 8 Enterprise
This version of Windows 8 won’t be for sale to normal consumers. If your company has a regular sales contact from Microsoft they probably receive Windows at Volume Licensing pricing. The Enterprise version provides some extra features that only apply to businesses that rely heavily on Windows and Unique Software Assurance Benefits.
Should you Upgrade?
If you’re looking to upgrade your current computer you’ll want to download and run the Windows 8 Upgrade Assistant. http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/upgrade-to-windows-8
The upgrade assistant will let you know if any of your applications are incompatible.
Luckily, it will also show you many of the programs which are compatible.
and when the upgrade assistant completes it will even offer you a deal to upgrade.
The Windows 8 Media Center Mystery
You should be aware that Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro doesn’t come with Windows Media Center. If you have Windows 8, you can purchase the Windows 8 Pro Pack which will upgrade you to Windows 8 Pro and install the Windows Media Center. Currently, the Windows 8 Pro Pack is $69.95. For a limited time, the Windows Media Center is free but you must request a product key by using your Email address. Giving up your Email isn’t a big deal since it’s required to use Windows 8 anyway.
Click here to request Windows Media Center. You may not care about Windows Media Center since most of its functionality can be accomplished by other apps.
Now that you know your choices for Windows 8 I hope it will help you decide when upgrading to Windows 8 will be right for you.
posted by Unknown | 6:59 PM
4 Comments:
Bill p. With the great push of windows 8 by everyone one thing i
noticed is most apps I use to safeguard my system in windows 7 does not state in their technical info its ready for windows 8 use except Win Patrol. Unless you use microsoft's security software and firewall you may not have other choices right now. So is it really smart to go ahead and purchase a windows 8 system right now?
How are you protected from data theft in Windows 8 currently?
Thanks JT
How much security you need is so much a personal thing it's difficult for me to make a recommendation for Windows 8 or any version of Windows.
I haven't been following how other security vendors have been treating Windows 8. I don't see why more program wouldn't work on Windows 8 or Windows 8 Pro. Windows RT is a whole different animal.
One disappointing thing that the Windows 8 Update Advisor does NOT check for is the existence of drivers for your hardware. One of my clients ran the Update Advisor then updated his Lenovo V570 laptop. Now his laptop camera doesn't work and the scanner on his printer doesn't work either. Lenovo doesn't show any Win8 drivers for this unit and none of the suggested fixes I have found in any Lenovo or other forums have worked.
I see absolutely no reason to upgrade to Wndows 8. I have customised my computer to run as I want it and do not like the way MS is going with Windows. 7 will be the last version I buy and use. When support finishes for that I'll use it without network connection and use Linux - which I use a fair bit now anyway.
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