Hi everybody. Just as we started to get used to using Windows Vista and Windows 7, Windows 8 is getting ready for its premier. Unlike the other operating system releases, Windows 8 will be a whole different animal and the truth be said, it wont be for everybody. This version of Windows goes to a whole different level and even will use a different file system.

Probably one of the biggest changes users will note is the absence of the Start menu. This version of the OS will have a desktop similar to your Smart Phone. You will use square icons on your desktop to start all your applications. This technology will be great for the new touch screen PC monitors that are being introduced. In fact, this version of Windows will be optimized for such use.

One great feature of Windows 8 is the built in virus protection. If you choose not to install an antivirus program, this version of Windows will automatically activate it’s own Windows Defender and Security Essentials software. Be advised that most installs of Windows 8 will come with a trial from one of the big box companies just like it did with Windows Vista and 7.

For the average person using a conventional computer, Windows 8 will be hard to figure out. The Metro Interface is not very user friendly and those of you upgrading from XP will really have a rough time getting used to this new format. From reading other blogs about user experiences with this new OS, the complaints are high and in one word the best description of the operating system is “confusing”.

The Windows 8 desktop will start your program like your phone starts an APP. You can toggle to a more familiar Windows 7 format, but you are still left without a start menu. In order to get your work done, you often have to toggle between the two interfaces, which is very annoying.

I do not think you can really compare this OS to a Windows 7 computer. I also do not see Windows 8 replacing Windows 7. They are two different animals that work completely different from each other. If you want to go with a portable tablet, the new OS might be for you. If you want a traditional computing experience I would stick with Windows 7. If you are still using Windows XP and you like it, keep using it as long as possible just like we are. I still believe XP is the best software Microsoft has ever made.

 

Author:  Joe Zelenak, Staff Writer