Windows 8, egads!

[BainsBane]

I got a new computer and it has Windows 8. I can't figure the damn thing out. First of all, it has Apps that sit in a different level of the computer from the programs. Why? Why do I need Apps? I tried to use the internet explorer app and got a message saying I had to go "to the desktop." What use is even having them?

Then I can't find a close button for a program. I have to open task manager and close that way.

I can't even figure out how to turn off the damn computer.

Why does Microsoft engage in a conspiracy to make users lives more miserable with each new operating system? I liked Windows XP. It worked fine. Why did they have to make Windows 7 and 8 so much worse?

Suddenly, I know what this emoticon is for.

[arcane1]

1. Windows 8 wants you to swipe, like on a phone.

I ranted enough on this thread: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10024140208

[BainsBane]

2. But my computer isn't touch

I got the cheapest Dell in the Black Friday sale. I paid $200. It would be fine if it had a functional operating system. Is it seriously not functional for normal computers?

[arcane1]

3. It sucks for normal computers, but I've read that they have a version that's more normal.

It might be some nonsense you have to download from MS, but there are ways to make Windows 8 behave more like normal Windows.

[BainsBane]

4. What do I download?

[arcane1]

5. I have no idea, I'm still using XP!

It would require doing some internet searches, to see what the options are for Windows 8 users. But I do recall reading that Microsoft itself had something that would make Windows 8 behave sanely, more like Windows 7.

[BainsBane]

6. It must be nice to be a free person

not living under the tyranny of Microsoft's unending quest to destroy the world one operating system at a time.

[MuseRider]

7. Still learning it myself

but I don't mind it much so far.

To close a program put your mouse pointer up in the upper left corner and you will see little tiles of what you had open. You can close them from there. If that is not what you meant then I have no idea yet! It does have a learning curve. Not sure what to think really, I kinda like it. At least it is not my old Mac. Blech, if I ever hated a machine as much as that thing I don't know what it would have been.

[TreasonousBastard]

8. I eneded up liking Win 8, but it...

took a while. I have two Win 8 desktops and after configuring them they're running very well-- all my old software works faster and smoother. Mostly.

I'm on my Win 7 laptop now, so i don't have the links and some instructions handy but if you can check if you have Win 8.1-- that's a big step up. If you don't, try to download it.

Then, you adjust the settings so you boot straight to the desktop and never see those nasty tiles unless you want to. For now, the Windows key should toggle you back and forth between the desktop and the tiles.

When you have a desktop that looks like your old XP, Vista or 7 desktop you can set it up to just what you're used to.

I can be more specific when I get back to the desktop, so if you want links, menus and stuff, let me know.

[BainsBane]

9. It says windows 8, not 8.1

I would appreciate links when you're able.
Thanks

[TreasonousBastard]

14. OK...

Most of the basics on 8.1, plus how to get it:

http://www.techradar.com/us/reviews/pc-mac/software/operating-systems/windows-8-1-1161745/review#articleContent

Get rid of the tiles:

http://www.howtogeek.com/166445/how-to-skip-the-start-screen-and-boot-to-the-desktop-in-windows-8.1/

We all get tons of useless games and crap "to keep the PC price down". This helps get rid of it:

http://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/revo_uninstaller.html Get the free version

(I'm still trying to get Norton off of this thing-- lost the link for how to kill it forever)

There will still be growling and gritting of teeth, but stick with it. In a few days it will be as comfortable as XP and work a lot better.

[BainsBane]

15. Thanks so much!

[PrestonLocke]

10. Windows 8

kill it with fire!!!

[DinahMoeHum]

11. Then what is the best option?

Because I'm also faced with the obligation/dilemma to update by April 2014; and I cannot seem to find/buy any laptop that still has Windows 7.

Is there a way to buy a laptop with Windows 8 and replace it with Windows 7?

Are the Dell Inspirons worth a damn?

This inquiring mind wishes to know. Thanks.

[BainsBane]

12. The Dell inspirion seems good for the money.

It's the OS that sucks. I just realized they have a touch version of my computer but I went very cheap. Dell is advertising computers with windows7 on their website. They clearly think it's a draw. They do have a sale this week but nothing like Black Friday.

[discntnt_irny_srcsm]

17. My choice for a laptop

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834256821

This is a good option for $500. It's not a gaming PC but it has Win 7 pro and does what it's suppose to. There's an open RAM slot to add another 4GB if needed/wanted.

And, of course: https://www.google.com/#q=windows+7+laptops+new&safe=off&tbm=shop

Best of luck.

[hobbit709]

13. download Classic Shell and install it.

http://www.classicshell.net/

It will make it appear like 7. Brings back the Start Menus, etc. One of the settings on it is to turn off that stupid charms crap.
There are plenty of tweaks and hints available online to make it behave better.

It took me about 3 hours to decrapify and tweak mine but people don't believe it has 8 on it when they see it-I got it looking and acting like 7

[csziggy]

16. ^^this^^

When I tried to help my Dad with his Windows 8 computer last spring, I couldn't do anything with it or anything to help him. Sometime over the summer one of the grandkids (Dad's, my niece or nephew) installed Classic Shell. After Dad died, and I needed to find some things on his computer, that made it useable.

It still acts weird every so often - I installed some programs to help me scan documents and photos and the Start button disappeared - but otherwise it feels just like my Win 7 machine.

[BainsBane]

18. Any one know why I should have problems with internet connectivity in Windows 8?

I currently have two computers at home: my new Inspirion laptop with windows 8 and an order but sturdier Dell from work. I have no problem staying online with the older Dell. But the new computer is always having internet connectivity problems.
Could this be a function of windows 8, or is it something else?

Thanks for the advice about classic shell. I downloaded it and have gotten some of the functionality working.