Windows 8 Guide

Welcome to A Beginner's Guide To Windows 8. A thorough introduction to Microsoft's new - and most radical - operating system in many years.

A Beginner's Guide to Windows 8 is quick reference manual for users who want to learn how to use Microsoft's newest operating system: Windows 8.

Windows 8 is optimised for use with touchscreen computers and looks and feels quite a bit different to Windows 7. It can be a little intimidating for first time users -- and especially business users. But don't worry, we're here to help you make sense of it all.

In this guide, our aim is to show you how to navigate Windows 8, and in particular the all-new Start screen, in order to get the most out of it. We show you the gestures that can be used to bring up the operating system's navigational features; we list the keyboard shortcuts that can make your life easier, and we talk about how you can use Windows 8 even if you don't have a touchscreen computer.

While the Start screen may be getting the most attention, the desktop has also undergone improvements and we highlight some of the most important ones that you need to know about, ranging from networking and user accounts, to backing up your data and keeping your computer safe.

Finally, if you're unsure about what type of computer to buy in order to get the most out of Windows 8, or if you're simply wondering if you're current PC will be able to run the new operating system, rest assured we've got that covered, too. We also show you examples of some of the exciting new hardware that's on offer with Windows 8 -- you no longer need to run just a boring old clam-shell laptop or mid-tower desktop.

To access the Guide please fill in the questions below.