Features new to Windows 8#File History

File:Windows 8 - Xbox Music and Photos together.png to the right side of the screen]]

Windows 8 introduces the new Windows Runtime (WinRT) platform, which can be used to create a new type of application officially known as Windows Store apps and commonly called Metro-style apps. Such apps run within a secure sandbox and share data with other apps through common APIs. WinRT, being a COM-based API, allows for the use of various programming languages to code apps, including C++, C++/CX, C#, Visual Basic .NET, or HTML5 and JavaScript.{{cite web |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/06/html5-centric-windows-8-leaves-microsoft-developers-horrified/ |title=Why Microsoft has made developers horrified about coding for Windows 8 |last=Bright |first=Peter |publisher=Condé Nast |work=Ars Technica |date=June 13, 2011 |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317002251/http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/06/html5-centric-windows-8-leaves-microsoft-developers-horrified/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/br211361.aspx |title=App architecture |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN |date=December 17, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=February 27, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140227102243/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/br211361.aspx |url-status=live }} Metro-style apps are packaged and distributed via APPX, a new file format for package management.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/windowsappdev/archive/2012/12/04/designing-a-simple-and-secure-app-package-appx.aspx |title=Designing a simple and secure app package – APPX |last=Davis |first=Jack |date=December 4, 2012 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Windows 8 app developer blog |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=December 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121206234622/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/windowsappdev/archive/2012/12/04/designing-a-simple-and-secure-app-package-appx.aspx |url-status=live }} Unlike desktop applications, Metro-style apps can be sideloaded, subject to licensing conditions.{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/jj874388.aspx |title=Try it out: sideload Windows Store apps |publisher=Microsoft |work=TechNet |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=January 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150129184207/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/jj874388.aspx |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 Update allows for sideloading apps on all Windows 8.1 Pro devices joined to an Active Directory domain.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/itpro/2014/04/03/windows-8-1-update-sideloading-enhancements/ |title=Windows 8.1 Update: Sideloading Enhancements |last=Hunter |first=Ben |date=April 3, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Blogging Windows |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140823072841/http://blogs.windows.com/itpro/2014/04/03/windows-8-1-update-sideloading-enhancements/ |archive-date=August 23, 2014 |access-date=June 25, 2018}}

In Windows 8 up to two apps may snap to the side of a widescreen display to allow multi-tasking, forming a sidebar that separates the apps. In Windows 8.1, apps can continually be resized to the desired width. Snapped apps may occupy half of the screen. Large screens allow up to four apps to be snapped. Upon launching an app, Windows allows the user to pick which snapped view the app should open into.

The term "Metro-style apps" referred to "Metro", a design language prominently used by Windows 8 and other recent Microsoft products. Reports surfaced that Microsoft employees were told to stop using the term due to potential trademark issues with an unspecified partner. A Microsoft spokesperson however, denied these reports and stated that "Metro-style" was merely a codename for the new application platform.{{cite web |url=https://www.theverge.com/2012/8/2/3215039/microsoft-metro-name-dispute-developers |title=Microsoft advises developers to stop using 'Metro' name in apps following possible trademark dispute |date=August 2, 2012 |publisher=Vox Media |work=The Verge |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-date=August 4, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120804143913/http://www.theverge.com/2012/8/2/3215039/microsoft-metro-name-dispute-developers |url-status=live }}

Windows 8 introduces APIs to support near field communication (NFC) on Windows 8 devices, allowing functionality like launching URLs/applications and sharing of information between devices via NFC.{{cite web |url=http://www.istartedsomething.com/20110917/nfc-windows-8s-hidden-connection-to-tags-and-devices |title=NFC: Windows 8's hidden connection to tags and devices |last=Zheng |first=Long |date=September 17, 2011 |work=istartedsomething |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-date=September 9, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909055158/http://www.istartedsomething.com/20110917/nfc-windows-8s-hidden-connection-to-tags-and-devices/ |url-status=live }}

{{Main|Windows Store}}

Windows Store is a digital distribution platform built into Windows 8, which in a manner similar to Apple's App Store and Google Play, allows for the distribution and purchase of apps designed for Windows 8. Developers will still be able to advertise desktop software through Windows Store as well. To ensure that they are secure and of a high quality, Windows Store will be the only means of distributing WinRT-based apps for consumer-oriented versions of Windows 8.{{cite web |url=http://www.winrumors.com/microsoft-details-and-demos-the-windows-store-for-windows-8-video/ |title=Microsoft details and demos the Windows Store for Windows 8 |last=Warren |first=Tom |date=September 14, 2011 |publisher=Winrumors.com |access-date=March 3, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324123250/http://www.winrumors.com/microsoft-details-and-demos-the-windows-store-for-windows-8-video/ |archive-date=March 24, 2015 |df=mdy-all }}

In Windows 8.1, Windows Store features a redesigned interface with improved app discovery and recommendations and offers automatic updates for apps.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-windows-store-20 |title=In Blue: Windows Store 2.0 |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 17, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=SuperSite for Windows |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620173229/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-windows-store-20 |archive-date=June 20, 2013 |url-status=dead }}

File:Windows 8 pre-login.png

Windows 8 features a redesigned user interface built upon the Metro design language,{{cite web |url=http://4sysops.com/archives/windows-8-new-features-the-complete-list-updated/ |title=Windows 8 new features – The complete list (updated) |last=Pietroforte |first=Michael |date=August 28, 2012 |publisher=4sysops |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-date=December 5, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141205053302/https://4sysops.com/archives/windows-8-new-features-the-complete-list-updated/ |url-status=live }} with optimizations for touchscreens.

Metro-style apps can either run in a full-screen environment, or be snapped to the side of a screen alongside another app or the desktop; snapping requires a screen resolution of 1366×768 or higher.{{cite news|title=New Windows 8 hardware specs hint at 7-inch tablets and a Microsoft Reader|url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/new-windows-8-hardware-specs-hint-at-7-inch-tablets-and-a-microsoft-reader/|work=ZDNet|access-date=March 29, 2013|archive-date=December 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141204160922/http://www.zdnet.com/new-windows-8-hardware-specs-hint-at-7-inch-tablets-and-a-microsoft-reader-7000013271/|url-status=live}} Windows 8.1 lowers the snapping requirement to a screen resolution of 1024x768.{{cite web |url=http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-blue-lowers-modern-app-snap-view-resolution-to-1024x768 |title=Windows 'Blue' lowers Modern app snap view resolution to 1024x768 |last=Callaham |first=John |website=Neowin |date=March 26, 2013 |access-date=February 22, 2013 |archive-date=March 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329123304/http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-blue-lowers-modern-app-snap-view-resolution-to-1024x768 |url-status=live }} Users can switch between apps and the desktop by clicking on the top left corner or by swiping the left side of the touchscreen to invoke a sidebar that displays all currently opened Metro-style apps. Right-clicking on the upper left corner provides a context menu with options to switch between open apps. The traditional desktop is accessible from a tile on the Start screen or by launching a desktop app. The {{key press|Alt|Tab}} shortcut cycles through all programs, regardless of type.

File:Windows 8 tutorial post-install.png

The interface also incorporates a taskbar on the right side of the screen known as "the charms" (lowercase), which can be accessed from any app or the desktop by sliding from the right edge of a touchscreen or compatible touchpad, by moving the mouse cursor to one of the right corners of the screen, or by pressing {{key press|Win|C}}. The charms include Search, Share, Start, Devices and Settings charms. The Start charm invokes or dismisses the Start screen. Other charms invoke context-sensitive sidebars that can be used to access app and system functionality. Because of the aforementioned changes involving the use of hot corners, user interface navigation in Windows 8 is fundamentally different when compared with previous versions of Windows. To assist new users of the operating system, Microsoft incorporated a tutorial that appears during the installation of Windows 8, and also during the first sign-in of a new user account, which visually instructs users to move their mouse cursor into any corner of the screen (or swipe the corners on devices with touchscreens) to interact with the operating system.{{cite web |url=http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-to-get-oobe-tutorial |title=Windows 8 to get OOBE tutorial |last=Sams |first=Brad |publisher=Neowin |date=May 3, 2012 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=April 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150405133937/http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-to-get-oobe-tutorial |url-status=live }} The tutorial can be disabled so that it does not appear for new user accounts.{{cite web |url=http://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/stop-windows-8-intro-animation-users |title=Stop the Windows 8 Intro Animation for Users |last=Savill |first=John |date=April 14, 2013 |publisher=Penton |work=Windows IT Pro |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150916083456/http://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/stop-windows-8-intro-animation-users |archive-date=September 16, 2015 |url-status=dead }} Windows 8.1 introduces navigation hints with instructions that are displayed during the first use of the operating system, and also includes a help and support app.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-help-tips |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Help + Tips |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=August 17, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317015345/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-help-tips |url-status=live }}

In Windows 8.1, the aforementioned hotspots in the upper right and the upper left corners can be disabled.{{cite web |url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/6/26/4465888/windows-8-1-preview-video |title=Windows 8.1: a first look at what Microsoft is changing |last=Rodgers |first=Evan |date=June 26, 2013 |publisher=Vox Media |work=The Verge |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-date=April 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418173326/http://www.theverge.com/2013/6/26/4465888/windows-8-1-preview-video |url-status=live }}

Pressing {{key press|Win|X}} or right-clicking on the bottom left corner of the screen opens the Quick Link menu.{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/new-keyboard-shortcuts/?v=t |title=New keyboard shortcuts for Windows 8 and Windows RT |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219184512/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/new-keyboard-shortcuts/?v=t |url-status=live }} This menu contains shortcuts to frequently used areas such as Control Panel, File Explorer, Programs and Features, Run, Search, Power Options and Task Manager.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-feature-focus-power-user-menu |title=Windows 8 Feature Focus: Power User Menu |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=November 23, 2012 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223134613/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-feature-focus-power-user-menu |url-status=live }} In Windows 8.1, the Quick Link menu includes options to shut down or restart a device.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-power-user-menu |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Power User Menu |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |work=SuperSite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=June 26, 2013 |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130806200856/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-power-user-menu |archive-date=August 6, 2013 |url-status=dead }}

Windows 8.1 Update introduced changes that facilitate mouse-oriented means of switching between and closing Metro-style apps, patterned upon the mechanics used by desktop programs in the Windows user interlace. In lieu of the recent apps sidebar, computer icons for opened apps can be displayed on the taskbar; as with desktop programs, shortcuts to apps can also be pinned to the taskbar. When a mouse is connected, an auto-hiding titlebar with minimize and close buttons is displayed within apps when the mouse is moved toward the top of the screen.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-update-1-review |title=Windows 8.1 Update 1 Review |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=April 2, 2014 |publisher=Penton |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221210424/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-update-1-review |url-status=live }}

File:Windows 8.1 Calculator.png app running in Windows 8.1]]

A number of apps are included in the standard installation of Windows 8, including Mail (an email client), People (a contact manager), Calendar (a calendaring app), Messaging (an IM client), Photos (an image viewer), Music (an audio player), Video (a video player), Camera (a webcam or digital camera client), SkyDrive, Reader (an e-book reader), and six other apps that expose Bing services (Search, News, Finance, Weather, Travel and Sports).{{citation needed|date=June 2015}}

Windows 8.1 adds Calculator, Alarm Clock, Sound Recorder, Reading List, Food & Drink, Health & Fitness,{{cite web|title=Microsoft demonstrates new apps and devices for Windows 8.1|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/6/7/4405604/microsoft-computex-2013-windows-8-1-demo-devices-video|work=The Verge|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=June 14, 2013|date=June 7, 2013|archive-date=June 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130610064820/http://www.theverge.com/2013/6/7/4405604/microsoft-computex-2013-windows-8-1-demo-devices-video|url-status=live}} Help + Tips, Scan,{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-new-utility-apps |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: New Utility Apps |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 26, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=March 2, 2015 |archive-date=June 10, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610082312/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-new-utility-apps |url-status=live }} and a file manager integrated in the SkyDrive app.{{cite web|last=Warren|first=Tom|title=New Windows 8.1 leak includes 'Metro' file explorer and improved multitasking|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/4/17/4233796/windows-8-1-metro-file-explorer-multitasking-screenshots|work=The Verge|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=April 18, 2013|date=April 17, 2013|archive-date=April 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130418070633/http://www.theverge.com/2013/4/17/4233796/windows-8-1-metro-file-explorer-multitasking-screenshots|url-status=live}}

Windows 8 also includes a Metro-style system component called PC Settings which exposes a small portion of Control Panel settings. Windows 8.1 improves this component to include more options that were previously exclusive to Control Panel.{{cite web |first=Peter |last=Bright |title=Windows Blue leaks: More Metro, more multitasking |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2013/03/windows-blue-leaks-more-metro-more-multitasking/ |work=Ars Technica |publisher=Condé Nast |date=March 25, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112025931/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2013/03/windows-blue-leaks-more-metro-more-multitasking/ |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 Update adds additional options to PC Settings.

{{Main|Start menu#Windows 8|l1=Start screen}}

File:Windows 8 Start Screen.png

Windows 8 introduces a new form of start menu called Start screen, which resembles the home screen of Windows Phone, and is shown in place of the desktop on startup. The Start screen serves as the primary method of launching applications and consists of a grid of app tiles which can be arranged into columnar groups; groups can be arranged with or without group names.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/04/designing-the-start-screen.aspx |title=Designing the Start screen |publisher=Microsoft |date=October 4, 2011 |work=Building Windows 8 |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-date=July 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120710070403/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/04/designing-the-start-screen.aspx |url-status=live }} App tiles can either be small (taking up 1 square) or large (taking up 2 squares) in size and can also display dynamic content provided by their corresponding apps, such as notifications and slide shows. Users can arrange individual app tiles or entire groups. An additional section of the Start screen called "All Apps" can be accessed via a right click from the mouse or an upward swipe and will display all installed apps categorized by their names. A semantic zoom feature is available for both the Start screen and "All Apps" view which enables users to target a specific area or group on the screen. The Start screen can uninstall apps directly.{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/uninstall-change-program |title=Uninstall, change or repair a program |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221135301/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/uninstall-change-program |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 makes the following changes to the Start screen:

• The "All Apps" section, now accessed with a hidden downward arrow or upward touch gesture, features a visible search bar which can display results for apps or other items.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-optimize-desktop |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Optimize for the Desktop |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=July 1, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-date=February 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150216035043/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-optimize-desktop |url-status=live }} The section is dismissed by a similar button with an upward arrow.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-quicker-apps-access |title=In Blue: Quicker Apps Access |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=April 24, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130427092846/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-quicker-apps-access |archive-date=April 27, 2013 |url-status=dead }} An option to display the "All Apps" section automatically instead of the Start screen is available.
• On high-resolution display monitors with sufficiently large physical screen sizes, an option to display additional tiles on the Start screen is available.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-show-more-tiles |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Show More Tiles |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 29, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=April 20, 2015 |archive-date=April 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150429150838/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-show-more-tiles |url-status=live }}
• Start screen tiles can be locked in place to prevent accidental manipulation of tiles.{{cite web|last=Chacos|first=Brad|title=Deep inside Windows Blue: 10 coolest features in Microsoft's leaked OS|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2031946/deep-inside-windows-blue-10-coolest-features-in-microsofts-leaked-os.html|work=PC World|publisher=IDG|access-date=April 23, 2013|date=March 25, 2013|archive-date=April 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130424060150/http://www.pcworld.com/article/2031946/deep-inside-windows-blue-10-coolest-features-in-microsofts-leaked-os.html|url-status=live}}
• The uninstall command allows Windows Store apps to be uninstalled from multiple computers.{{cite web |first=Paul |last=Thurrott |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=In Blue: Multi-PC App Uninstall |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-multi-pc-app-uninstall |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=April 24, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220015237/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-multi-pc-app-uninstall |archive-date=December 20, 2013 |url-status=dead }}
• More size options for live tiles on Start screen: small, medium, wide, and large.{{cite web|title=Windows Blue: a video preview of what's next for Windows 8|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/3/25/4144618/windows-blue-video-preview-screenshots|work=The Verge|date=March 25, 2013 |publisher=Vox Media|access-date=March 26, 2013|archive-date=March 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130327022633/http://www.theverge.com/2013/3/25/4144618/windows-blue-video-preview-screenshots|url-status=live}} The "small" size is one quarter of the default size in Windows 8.
• Expanded color options on the Start screen, which now allows users to customize a color and a shade of one's own choice instead of choosing from limited colors.
• New background options for the Start screen, including animated backgrounds and the ability to use the desktop wallpaper.{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=Windows 8.1 Preview ... Visually |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-preview-visually |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=June 5, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130608150415/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-preview-visually |archive-date=June 8, 2013 |url-status=dead }}
• Enhanced synchronization settings, including those for app tile arrangement, tile sizes, and background.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-s-clues-start-screen-sync |title=Blue's Clues: Start Screen Sync |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=March 27, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317211058/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-s-clues-start-screen-sync |url-status=live }}
• In a multi-monitor configuration, Windows 8.1 can optionally display the Start screen only on the primarily display monitor instead of the currently active monitor when the {{keypress|Win}} key is pressed.
• Multiple desktop applications can be selected from the Start screen and pinned to the taskbar at once, or multiple desktop applications and Metro-style apps can be selected from the "All Apps" view and pinned to the Start screen at once.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-personalize-start-screen |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Personalize the Start Screen |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=October 2, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150311081908/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-personalize-start-screen |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 Update augments this capability by allowing Metro-style apps to be pinned to the taskbar.{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/start-screen-tutorial |author=Microsoft |title=Start screen - Windows tutorial: Page 3 of 11 |access-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-date=March 9, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150309123914/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/start-screen-tutorial |url-status=live }} The Start menu in previous versions of Windows allowed only one desktop application to be selected and/or pinned at a time.
• By default, Windows 8.1 no longer displays recently installed apps and their related entries on the Start screen; users must manually pin these items.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-find-your-installed-apps |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Find Your Installed Apps |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=September 11, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223165820/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-find-your-installed-apps |url-status=live }}
• Windows 8.1 introduces options to categorize apps listed within the "All Apps" section of the Start screen. Apps can be categorized by their name, the date they were installed, their frequency of use, or based on their categories.{{cite web |url=http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/29154-apps-screen-sort-windows-8-1-a.html |title=Apps Screen - Sort By in Windows 8.1 |last=Brink |first=Shawn |date=August 2, 2013 |access-date=February 14, 2015 |archive-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221204528/http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/29154-apps-screen-sort-windows-8-1-a.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-apps-view |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Apps View |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 26, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=March 2, 2015 |archive-date=March 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318024910/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-apps-view |url-status=live }} When sorted by category, desktop applications can optionally be prioritized within the interface. Windows 8.1 Update allows additional app tiles to be displayed within the "All Apps" section of the Start screen.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.technet.com/b/askpfeplat/archive/2014/04/07/exploring-windows-8-1-update-start-screen-desktop-and-other-enhancements.aspx |title=Exploring Windows 8.1 Update – Start Screen, Desktop and Other Enhancements |last=Hildebrand |first=Michael |date=April 7, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=TechNet Blogs |access-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217022705/http://blogs.technet.com/b/askpfeplat/archive/2014/04/07/exploring-windows-8-1-update-start-screen-desktop-and-other-enhancements.aspx |url-status=live }}
• The ability to highlight recently installed apps has been enhanced in Windows 8.1 Update, which now displays the total number of recently installed apps within the lower-left corner of the Start screen in addition to highlighting.{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/whats-new |title=What's new in Windows 8.1 Update and Windows RT 8.1 Update? |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 14, 2015 |archive-date=February 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215020629/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/whats-new |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/43181-apps-screen-show-more-apps-windows-8-1-update.html |title=Apps Screen - Show More Apps in Windows 8.1 Update |last=Brink |first=Shawn |date=March 23, 2014 |access-date=February 14, 2015 |archive-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221211128/http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/43181-apps-screen-show-more-apps-windows-8-1-update.html |url-status=live }} In contrast, the Start menu interface included in previous versions of Windows only highlighted apps. Windows 8.1 Update also enables semantic zoom upon clicking or tapping the title of an app category.

Windows 8.1 reverts two changes that were featured in Windows 8. Windows 8 removed the Start button on the taskbar in favor of other ways of invoking the Start screen. Windows 8.1 restores this button.{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=Coming in Blue: Boot to Desktop, Start Button, and More! |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/coming-blue-boot-desktop-start-button-and-more |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=May 29, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607181355/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/coming-blue-boot-desktop-start-button-and-more |archive-date=June 7, 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=In Blue: Start Experience Changes |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-start-experience-changes |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=May 29, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530005326/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-start-experience-changes |archive-date=May 30, 2013 |url-status=dead }} Windows 8 also showed the Start screen upon logon, as opposed to other editions of Windows that show the desktop. In Windows 8.1, user may now choose which one to see first. Windows 8.1 Update boots to the desktop by default on non-tablet devices and introduces the ability to switch to the taskbar from the Start screen or from an open Metro-style app by directing the mouse cursor toward the bottom of the screen.

Windows 8.1 introduces a new "slide to shutdown" option which allows users to drag their partially revealed lock screen image toward the bottom of the screen to shut down the operating system.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/amar/archive/2014/05/20/slide-to-shutdown-in-windows-8-1-great-for-touch-devices.aspx |title=Slide to shutdown in Windows 8.1 – great for touch devices |last=Nityananda |first=Amar |date=May 19, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN Blogs |access-date=February 28, 2015 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402154026/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/amar/archive/2014/05/20/slide-to-shutdown-in-windows-8-1-great-for-touch-devices.aspx |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 Update introduces a visible power button on the Start screen.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2014/04/10/some-tips-and-tricks-for-using-the-windows-8-1-update-updated/ |title=Some tips and tricks for using the Windows 8.1 Update [UPDATED!] |last=LeBlanc |first=Brandon |date=April 10, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Blogging Windows |access-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221212103/http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2014/04/10/some-tips-and-tricks-for-using-the-windows-8-1-update-updated/ |url-status=live }} This power button does not appear on all hardware device types.{{cite web |url=http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2959188 |title=Power/shutdown button may be missing from the Windows 8.1 start screen |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222060416/http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2959188 |url-status=live }} By default, new account profiles in Windows 8.1 Update also receive four additional tiles pinned to the Start screen: This PC, PC Settings, Documents, and Pictures. In Windows RT, only the PC Settings tile is added.

In Windows 8, searching from the Start screen or clicking on the Search charm will display search results within a full-screen interface. Unlike previous versions of Windows where searching from the Start menu returned results from multiple sources simultaneously, Windows 8 searches through individual categories: apps, settings, and files.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/18/designing-search-for-the-start-screen.aspx |title=Designing search for the Start screen |date=October 18, 2011 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Building Windows 8 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=February 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150210182800/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/18/designing-search-for-the-start-screen.aspx |url-status=live }} By default, Windows 8 searches for apps after a user begins searching from the Start screen or Search charm, but can also search other categories from the user interface or via keyboard shortcuts. Pressing {{key press|Win||Q}} opens the Search charm to search for apps, {{key press|Win||F}} searches for files, and {{key press|Win||W}} searches for settings. Search queries can also be redirected between specific categories or apps after being entered. When searching for apps, Windows 8 will display a list of apps that support the Search charm; frequently used apps will be prioritized and users can pin individual apps so that they always appear.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/favapps336-144625 |title=Windows 8 Tip: Pin Favorite Apps in Start Search |date=October 25, 2012 |publisher=Penton |work=SuperSite for Windows |access-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117063619/http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/favapps336-144625 |url-status=live }} The Search charm can also search directly within apps if a user redirects an entered search query to a specific app or presses {{key press|Win||Q}} from within an app that is already open.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-tip-find-anything-search |title=Windows 8 Tip: Find Anything with Search |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 18, 2012 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 24, 2015 |archive-date=February 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215180928/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-tip-find-anything-search |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-tip-searching-metro-style-apps |title=Windows 8 Tip: Searching in Metro-Style Apps |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 10, 2012 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-date=April 3, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150403135107/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-tip-searching-metro-style-apps |url-status=live }} When searching for files, Windows 8 will highlight words or phrases that match a search query and provide suggestions based on the content and properties of files that appear. Information about the files themselves, such as associated programs and sizes, appear directly beneath filenames. If a user hovers over a file with the mouse cursor or long presses with a finger a tooltip will appear and display additional information.

In Windows 8.1, searching no longer opens a full-screen interface; results are instead displayed in a Metro-style flyout interface. Windows 8.1 also reinstates unified local search results, and can optionally provide results from Bing. Dubbed "Smart Search," Windows 8.1 and Bing can optionally analyze a user's search habits to return relevant content that is stored locally and from the Internet.{{cite web |url=http://www.bing.com/explore/windows8search |title=Smart Search: Reinvented for Windows 8.1 |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222071934/http://www.bing.com/explore/windows8search |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-configure-smart-search |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Configure Smart Search |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=September 27, 2013 |publisher=Penton |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-date=March 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150310222618/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-configure-smart-search |url-status=live }} When enabled, Smart Search exposes additional search categories within the user interface: web images and web videos, and can be accessed via a new keyboard shortcut, {{key press|Win||S|}}.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.office.com/2013/06/27/windows-8-1-preview-and-a-workaround-for-your-favorite-wins-shortcut-key/ |title=Windows 8.1 Preview and a workaround for your favorite Win+S shortcut key |publisher=Microsoft |work=Office Blogs |date=June 27, 2013 |access-date=February 24, 2015 |archive-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220031431/http://blogs.office.com/2013/06/27/windows-8-1-preview-and-a-workaround-for-your-favorite-wins-shortcut-key/ |url-status=live }} A new full screen "hero" interface powered by Bing can display aggregated multimedia (such as photos, YouTube videos, songs/albums on Xbox Music) and other content (such as news articles and Wikipedia entries) related to a search query.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-smart-search |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Smart Search |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 26, 2013 |publisher=Penton |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=March 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318015824/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-smart-search |url-status=live }} Like its predecessor, Windows 8.1 allows users to search through setting and file categories, but the option to search through a category for apps is removed from the interface; the keyboard shortcut previously associated with this functionality, {{key press|Win||Q}}, now displays unified search results. The Search charm also can no longer search from within apps directly or display a list of compatible apps. To search for content within apps, users must first open an app and, if available, use a search feature from within that app's interface.

Windows 8.1 Update enhances the Bing Smart Search feature by providing support for natural language queries, which can detect misspellings and display apps or settings relevant to a query. For example, typing "get apps for Windows" will display a shortcut to the Windows Store.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.bing.com/search/2014/04/30/making-smart-search-smarter/ |title=Making Smart Search Smarter |publisher=Microsoft |work=Bing |date=April 30, 2014 |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-date=February 14, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214055245/http://blogs.bing.com/search/2014/04/30/making-smart-search-smarter/ |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 Update also introduces a visible search button on the Start screen that acts as a shortcut to the Metro-style flyout interface.

The Kind property introduced in Windows Vista to express a more friendly notion of file type has been expanded to include support for Playlist (where items are playlists) in Windows 8. In Windows 8.1, Unknown (where the kind of item is not known) is also introduced.{{cite web |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/properties/props-system-kind |title=System.Kind |date=January 7, 2021 |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN |access-date=December 1, 2022}}

Windows 8 introduces a redesigned lock screen interface based on the Metro design language. The lock screen displays a customizable background image, the current date and time, notifications from apps, and detailed app status or updates.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-feature-focus-lock-screen-144656 |title=Windows 8 Feature Focus: Lock Screen |date=October 28, 2012 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=March 12, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170312124405/http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-feature-focus-lock-screen-144656 |url-status=live }} Two new login methods optimized for touch screens are also available, including a four-digit PIN, or a "picture password," which users allow the use of certain gestures performed on a selected picture to log in.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/12/16/signing-in-with-a-picture-password.aspx |title=Signing in with a picture password |date=December 16, 2011 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Building Windows 8 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150225143503/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/12/16/signing-in-with-a-picture-password.aspx |url-status=live }} These gestures will take into account the shape, the start and end points, as well as the direction. However, the shapes and gestures are limited to tapping and tracing a line or circle. Microsoft found that limiting the gestures increased the speed of sign-ins by three times compared to allowing freeform methods. Wrong gestures will always deny a login, and it will lock out the PC after five unsuccessful attempts, until a text password is provided.{{cite web |url=http://channel9.msdn.com/events/BUILD/BUILD2011/KEY-0001 |title=Keynote #1 | BUILD2011 | Channel 9 |publisher=Channel9.msdn.com |date=September 13, 2011 |access-date=November 7, 2011 |archive-date=September 28, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928044944/http://channel9.msdn.com/events/BUILD/BUILD2011/KEY-0001 |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 introduces the ability to display a photo slide show on the lock screen.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-use-photo-slide-show-your-lock-screen |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Use a Photo Slide Show on Your Lock Screen |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |date=September 30, 2013 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 19, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219003318/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-use-photo-slide-show-your-lock-screen |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/buildingapps/2014/02/20/creating-a-slide-show-for-your-lock-screen/ |title=Creating a slide show for your lock screen |date=February 20, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Building Apps for Windows |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=February 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211063625/http://blogs.windows.com/buildingapps/2014/02/20/creating-a-slide-show-for-your-lock-screen/ |url-status=live }} The feature can display images from local or remote directories, and includes additional options to use photos optimized for the current screen resolution, to disable the slide show while the device is running on battery power, and to display the lock screen slide show instead of turning off the screen after a period of user inactivity. The lock screen can also display interactive toast notifications. As examples, users can answer calls or instant messages received from Skype contacts,{{cite web |url=http://www.winbeta.org/news/microsoft-highlights-skype-windows-81-answer-calls-and-see-ims-lock-screen |title=Microsoft highlights Skype for Windows 8.1, answer calls and see IMs from the Lock screen |author=Ron |date=September 9, 2013 |publisher=WinBeta |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402131405/http://www.winbeta.org/news/microsoft-highlights-skype-windows-81-answer-calls-and-see-ims-lock-screen |url-status=live }} or dismiss alarm notifications from the lock screen.{{cite web |url=http://www.silverlightshow.net/items/Windows-8.1-Alarm-and-Lock-screen-call-toasts.aspx |title=Windows 8.1: Alarm and Lock screen call toasts |last=Boschin |first=Andrea |date=December 16, 2013 |publisher=SilverlightShow |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150206211839/http://www.silverlightshow.net/items/Windows-8.1-Alarm-and-Lock-screen-call-toasts.aspx |url-status=live }} Users can also take photos without dismissing the lock screen.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2013/10/23/8-1-reasons-to-love-windows-8-1/ |title=8.1 reasons to love Windows 8.1 |last=S |first=David |publisher=Microsoft |work=Blogging Windows |date=October 23, 2013 |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=March 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150305051021/http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2013/10/23/8-1-reasons-to-love-windows-8-1/ |url-status=live }}

File:Windows 8 Notification.png dialog, allowing users to configure actions that Windows should take after the insertion of a removable media device.]]

Windows 8 introduces new forms of notifications for Metro-style apps and for certain events in File Explorer.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/jimoneil/archive/2012/08/02/windows-8-notifications-overview.aspx |title=Windows 8 Notifications: Overview |last=O'Neil |first=Jim |date=August 2, 2015 |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN Blogs |access-date=March 6, 2015 |archive-date=March 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150322014510/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/jimoneil/archive/2012/08/02/windows-8-notifications-overview.aspx |url-status=live }}

• Toast notifications: alert the user to specific events, such as the insertion of removable media
• Tile notifications: display dynamic information on the Start screen, such as weather forecasts and news updates
• Badge notifications: display numeric counters with a value from 1-99 that indicate certain events, such as the amount of unread e-mail messages or amount of available updates for a particular app. Additional information may also be displayed by a badge notification, such as the status of an Xbox Music app.

The PC Settings component includes options to globally disable all toast notifications, app notifications on the lock screen, or notification sounds; notifications can also be disabled on a per-app basis. In the Settings charm, Windows 8 provides additional options to suppress toast notifications during 1 hour, 3 hour, or 8 hour time intervals.{{cite web |url=http://www.guidingtech.com/14628/control-windows-8-notifications-tiles-toast/ |title=Understanding Windows 8 Notifications and How to Control Them |last=Mundhra |first=Ashish |work=Guiding Tech |date=September 12, 2012 |access-date=April 9, 2015 |archive-date=March 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150318020022/http://www.guidingtech.com/14628/control-windows-8-notifications-tiles-toast |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 introduces a Quiet Hours feature, also available on Windows Phone, that allows users to suppress notifications based on the time of day (e.g., notifications can be disabled from 12:00 AM to 6:00 PM).{{cite web |url=http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/32486-quiet-hours-enable-disable-windows-8-1-a.html |title=How to Enable or Disable Quiet Hours in Windows 8.1 |last=Brink |first=Shawn |date=October 7, 2013 |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 27, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150327050121/http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/32486-quiet-hours-enable-disable-windows-8-1-a.html |url-status=live }}{{unreliable source?|date=April 2015}}

Windows 8 allows users to link profiles with a Microsoft account to provide additional functionality, such as the synchronization of user data and settings,{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-feature-focus-settings-sync |title=Windows 8 Feature Focus: Settings Sync |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |date=November 8, 2012 |publisher=Penton Media |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223150154/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-feature-focus-settings-sync |url-status=live }} including those belonging to the desktop, and allows for integration with other Microsoft services such as Xbox Live, Xbox Music, Xbox Video (for gaming and multimedia) and SkyDrive online file storage.{{cite web |title=Signing in to Windows 8 with a Windows Live ID |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/26/signing-in-to-windows-8-with-a-windows-live-id.aspx |work=Microsoft |date=September 2011 |quote=Saved settings are available when you sign in to your account on any Windows 8 PC |access-date=February 11, 2012 |archive-date=July 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707022207/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/26/signing-in-to-windows-8-with-a-windows-live-id.aspx |url-status=live }}{{cite web|last=Sinofsky|first=Steven|title=Connecting your apps, files, PCs and devices to the cloud with SkyDrive and Windows 8|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/02/20/connecting-your-apps_2c00_-files_2c00_-pcs-and-devices-to-the-cloud-with-skydrive-and-windows-8.aspx|work=Building Windows 8|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=July 24, 2012|date=February 20, 2012|archive-date=February 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224065038/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/02/20/connecting-your-apps_2c00_-files_2c00_-pcs-and-devices-to-the-cloud-with-skydrive-and-windows-8.aspx|url-status=live}}

File:Windows 8 on two monitors.png

Windows 8 includes improved support for multi-monitor configurations; the taskbar can now optionally be shown on multiple displays, and each display can also show its own dedicated taskbar. In addition, options are available which can prevent taskbar buttons from appearing on certain monitors. Wallpapers can also be spanned across multiple displays, or each display can have its own separate wallpaper.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/21/enhancing-windows-8-for-multiple-monitors.aspx |title=Enhancing Windows 8 for multiple monitors |publisher=Microsoft |work=Building Windows 8 |date=May 21, 2012 |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222084457/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/21/enhancing-windows-8-for-multiple-monitors.aspx |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 includes improved support for high-resolution monitors.{{cite journal |url=http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/1/6/116B9895-EC9C-4174-8A85-A28146CF8B6A/Windows_8-1_Product-Guide.pdf |title=Windows 8.1 Preview product guide |publisher=Microsoft |year=2013 |access-date=July 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130818093506/http://download.microsoft.com/download/1/1/6/116B9895-EC9C-4174-8A85-A28146CF8B6A/Windows_8-1_Product-Guide.pdf |archive-date=August 18, 2013 |url-status=dead }} A desktop scaling feature now helps resize the items on the desktop to solve the visibility problems on screens with a very high native resolution.{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Desktop Display Scaling|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-desktop-display-scaling|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=Penton Media|access-date=September 15, 2013|author-link=Paul Thurrott|date=June 26, 2013|archive-date=August 31, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130831201702/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-desktop-display-scaling|url-status=live}} Windows 8.1 also introduces per-display DPI scaling, and provides an option to scale to 200%.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2013/07/15/windows-8-1-dpi-scaling-enhancements/ |title=Windows 8.1 DPI Scaling Enhancements |last=Gear |first=Gavin |date=July 15, 2013 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Blogging Windows |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226060049/http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2013/07/15/windows-8-1-dpi-scaling-enhancements/ |url-status=live }}

{{Further|File Explorer}}

File:Windows Explorer Ribbon.png

Windows Explorer, which has been renamed as File Explorer, now incorporates a ribbon toolbar, designed to bring forward the most commonly used commands for easy access. The "Up" button (which advances the user back a level in the folder hierarchy) that was removed from Explorer after Windows XP has also been restored.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/29/improvements-in-windows-explorer.aspx |title=Improvements in Windows Explorer |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-date=November 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111107021845/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/29/improvements-in-windows-explorer.aspx |url-status=live }} Additionally, File Explorer features a redesigned preview pane that takes advantage of widescreen layouts. File Explorer also provides a built-in function for mounting ISO, IMG, and VHD files as virtual drives.{{cite web |title=Accessing data in ISO and VHD files |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/30/accessing-data-in-iso-and-vhd-files.aspx |work=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-date=November 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106080406/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/30/accessing-data-in-iso-and-vhd-files.aspx |url-status=live }} For easier management of files and folders, Windows 8 introduces the ability to move selected files or folders via drag and drop from a parent folder into a subfolder listed within the breadcrumb hierarchy of the address bar in File Explorer.{{cite web |url=http://www.eyeonwindows.com/2011/04/28/windows-8-drag-and-drop-icons-into-breadcrumb-links/ |title=Windows 8 drag and drop icons into breadcrumb links |last=Amobi |first=Onuora |publisher=Nnigma Inc. |work=Eye on Windows |date=April 28, 2011 |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222050555/http://www.eyeonwindows.com/2011/04/28/windows-8-drag-and-drop-icons-into-breadcrumb-links/ |url-status=live }}

Progress windows for file operations have also been redesigned; offering the ability to show multiple operations at once, a graph for tracking transfer speeds, and the ability to pause and resume a file transfer.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/23/improving-our-file-management-basics-copy-move-rename-and-delete.aspx |title=Improving our file management basics: copy, move, rename and delete |work=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-date=February 17, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217174043/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/23/improving-our-file-management-basics-copy-move-rename-and-delete.aspx |url-status=live }} A new interface has also been introduced for managing file name collisions in a file operation, allowing users to easily control which conflicting files are copied.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/26/designing-the-windows-8-file-name-collision-experience.aspx |title=Designing the Windows 8 file name collision experience |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=September 17, 2011 |archive-date=July 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707235033/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/26/designing-the-windows-8-file-name-collision-experience.aspx |url-status=live }}

Libraries introduced in Windows 7 can now have their icons changed through the user interface;{{cite web |first=Paul |last=Thurrott |author-link=Paul Thurrott |url=http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-changing-custom-library-icon-140784 |title=Windows 8 Secrets: Changing a Custom Library Icon |work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=October 1, 2011 |access-date=June 27, 2013 |archive-date=June 3, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603131410/http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-changing-custom-library-icon-140784 |url-status=live }} previously, users had to change icons by manually editing configuration files.{{cite web |url=http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/6326/change-your-windows-7-library-icons-the-easy-way/ |title=Change Your Windows 7 Library Icons the Easy Way |work=HowToGeek.com |date=June 22, 2013 |access-date=June 27, 2013 |archive-date=July 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130713220225/http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/6326/change-your-windows-7-library-icons-the-easy-way/ |url-status=live }} With Windows 8.1., libraries can now also include removable storage devices; previously, adding removable storage devices to libraries was not supported.{{cite web |url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/448329/windows-8-1-surprises-25-hidden-features-and-little-extras.html |title=Windows 8.1 surprises: 25 hidden features and little extras |last=Chacos |first=Brad |date=October 31, 2013 |access-date=December 1, 2022}} Windows 8.1, however, no longer creates any default libraries for new users, and does not display the Libraries listing in File Explorer by default.{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=Are Libraries Going Away in Windows 8.1?|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/are-libraries-going-away-windows-81|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=Penton Media|author-link=Paul Thurrott|access-date=June 10, 2013|date=June 10, 2013|quote=Apparently, libraries will still be a capability of Windows 8/RT with the 8.1 update but the default libraries are no longer created when you set up a new user. You can still create custom libraries if you'd like.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613234448/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/are-libraries-going-away-windows-81|archive-date=June 13, 2013|url-status=dead}} Instead, Windows 8.1 introduces shortcuts to the default user profile folders (Documents, Downloads, Pictures, etc.) within the This PC location of File Explorer. The libraries can be enabled in the Options menu.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-pc |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: This PC |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 26, 2013 |publisher=Penton |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317224435/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-pc |url-status=live }}

HomeGroup has been updated in Windows 8 to display in the navigation pane the user profile photo of each member sharing content in the homegroup; in Windows 7, only a generic user icon for each user was displayed in the navigation pane.

Windows 8 ships with Internet Explorer 10, which can run as either a desktop program (where it operates similarly to Internet Explorer 9), or as an app with a new full-screen interface optimized for use on touchscreens. Internet Explorer 10 also contains an integrated version of Flash Player, which will be available in full on the desktop, and in a limited form within the "Metro" app.{{cite web | url = http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-release-preview-internet-explorer-10-143034 | work = Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows | title = Windows 8 Release Preview: Changes to Internet Explorer 10 | author = Paul Thurrott | date = May 31, 2012 | access-date = August 26, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120602233340/http://www.winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-release-preview-internet-explorer-10-143034 | archive-date = June 2, 2012 | url-status = dead }}

Windows 8.1 ships with Internet Explorer 11{{cite web |title=Windows Blue: Demise Of The Desktop? |url=http://www.informationweek.com/software/operating-systems/windows-blue-demise-of-the-desktop/240151656 |work=InfoWorld |publisher=IDG |access-date=March 26, 2013 |archive-date=October 24, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024202043/http://www.informationweek.com/software/operating-systems/windows-blue-demise-of-the-desktop/240151656 |url-status=live }} which includes tab syncing, WebGL and SPDY support, along with expanded developer tools. The Metro version also adds access to favorites and split-screen snapping of multiple tabs;{{cite web|title=Latest Windows 8.1 build beefs up IE developer tools|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57582508-75/latest-windows-8.1-build-beefs-up-ie-developer-tools/|work=CNET|access-date=May 29, 2013|archive-date=July 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130727020307/http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57582508-75/latest-windows-8.1-build-beefs-up-ie-developer-tools/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Microsoft teases Internet Explorer 11 WebGL support on Vine|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/5/22/4355942/internet-explorer-11-webgl-support-teased-on-vine|work=The Verge|date=May 22, 2013 |access-date=May 29, 2013|archive-date=June 7, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607055004/http://www.theverge.com/2013/5/22/4355942/internet-explorer-11-webgl-support-teased-on-vine|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Internet Explorer 11|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-internet-explorer-11|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=September 16, 2013|archive-date=September 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922052915/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-internet-explorer-11|url-status=live}} an additional option to always display the address bar and tabs is also available.{{cite web |url=http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/32039-internet-explorer-11-modern-show-address-bar-tabs.html |title=Internet Explorer 11 Modern - Show Address Bar and Tabs |last=Brink |first=Shawn |date=September 27, 2013 |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222052403/http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/32039-internet-explorer-11-modern-show-address-bar-tabs.html |url-status=live }} The Metro version can also detect and highlight phone numbers on a web page and turn them into clickable links that, when clicked, initiate a call with a compatible app such as Skype.{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ie/dn265018(v=vs.85).aspx |title=Phone number format recognition |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=January 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150110220129/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ie/dn265018(v=vs.85).aspx |url-status=live }}

File:Windows 8 task manager.png in Windows 8 offers a detailed look at how system resources are being used.]]

Windows 8 includes an overhauled version of Task Manager, which features the following changes:{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/13/the-windows-8-task-manager.aspx |title=The Windows 8 Task Manager |date=October 2011 |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=March 24, 2012 |archive-date=January 25, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125002701/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/13/the-windows-8-task-manager.aspx |url-status=live }}

• Task Manager defaults to a simple view which only displays a list of computer programs with a window. The expanded view is an updated version of the previous Task Managers with several tabs.
• Resource utilization in the Processes tab is shown using a heat map, with darker shades of yellow representing heavier use.
• The Performance tab is split into CPU, memory, disk, Ethernet, and wireless network (if applicable) sections. There are overall graphs for each, and clicking on one reaches details for that particular resource
• The CPU tab no longer displays individual graphs for every logical processor on the system by default. It may show data for each NUMA node.
• The CPU tab displays simple percentages on heat-mapping tiles to display utilization for systems with many (64 or more, up to 640) logical processors.{{cite web | url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/27/using-task-manager-with-64-logical-processors.aspx | title=Using Task Manager with 64+ logical processors | access-date=October 29, 2011 | archive-date=November 6, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106090910/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/27/using-task-manager-with-64-logical-processors.aspx | url-status=live }} The color used for these heat maps is blue, with darker color again indicating heavier utilization
• Hovering the cursor over any logical processor's graph shows the NUMA node of that processor and its ID.
• The new Startup tab lists startup programs and their impact on boot time. Windows Vista included a feature to manage startup applications that was removed in Windows 7.{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/what-happened-to-software-explorer-in-windows-defender |title=What happened to Software Explorer in Windows Defender? |publisher=Windows.microsoft.com |access-date=July 9, 2013 |archive-date=July 2, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130702060509/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/what-happened-to-software-explorer-in-windows-defender |url-status=live }}
• The Processes tab now lists application names, application status, and overall usage data for CPU, memory, hard disk, and network resources for each process. A new option to restart File Explorer upon its selection is provided.
• Task manager recognizes when a Windows Runtime application is in "Suspended" status.
• The process information found in the Processes tab of the older Task Manager can be found in the Details tab.

Windows 8 introduces a revised virtual (also known as on-screen) keyboard interface optimized for touchscreen devices that includes wider spacing between keys and is designed to prevent common typing errors that occur while using touchscreens.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/17/designing-the-windows-8-touch-keyboard.aspx |title=Designing the Windows 8 touch keyboard |publisher=Microsoft |work=Building Windows 8 |date=July 17, 2012 |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=February 3, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203175114/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/17/designing-the-windows-8-touch-keyboard.aspx |url-status=live }} Pressing and holding down a key reveals related keys which can be accessed via a press or swipe, and suggestions for incomplete words are available.{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-touch-keyboard |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Touch Keyboard |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=July 9, 2013 |publisher=Penton |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317011306/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-touch-keyboard |url-status=live }} Emoji characters are also supported. Windows 8.1 introduces the ability to swipe the space bar in the desired direction of a suggested word to switch between on-screen suggestions.

Windows 8.1 Update introduces a new gesture that allows users to tap twice and hold the second tap to drag and drop highlighted text or objects. A visible option to hide or show the virtual keyboard is also available.

Windows 8 displays a "peek" button for password text boxes which can optionally allows users to view passwords as they are entered in order to ensure that they are typed correctly.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.microsoft.com/next/2012/11/12/little-details-windows-8-passwords/ |title=Little Details: Windows 8 passwords |last=Clayton |first=Steve |publisher=Microsoft |work=Next at Microsoft |date=November 12, 2012 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=March 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324051622/http://blogs.microsoft.com/next/2012/11/12/little-details-windows-8-passwords/ |url-status=live }} The feature can be disabled via Group Policy.

File History is a continuous data protection component. File History automatically creates incremental backups of files stored in Libraries, including those for users participating in a HomeGroup, and user-specified folders to a different storage device (such as another internal or external hard drive, Storage Space, or network share). Specific revisions of files can then be tracked and restored using the "History" functions in File Explorer. File History replaces both Backup and Restore and Shadow Copy (known in Windows Explorer as "Previous Versions") as the main backup tool of Windows 8.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx |title=Protecting user files with File History |last=Raciborski |first=Bohdan |publisher=Microsoft |work=Building Windows 8 |editor-first=Steven |editor-last=Sinofsky |editor-link=Steven Sinofsky |date=July 10, 2012 |access-date=February 27, 2015 |archive-date=September 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120924235223/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/10/protecting-user-files-with-file-history.aspx |url-status=live }} Unlike Shadow Copy, which performs block-level tracking of files, File History utilizes the USN Journal to track changes, and simply copies revisions of files to the backup location.{{cite web |url=http://www.extremetech.com/computing/132628-using-file-history-windows-8s-built-in-backup-tool |title=Using File History, Windows 8's built-in backup tool |last=Anthony |first=Sebastian |date=July 11, 2012 |publisher=Ziff Davis Media |work=ExtremeTech |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-date=August 14, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120814011114/http://www.extremetech.com/computing/132628-using-file-history-windows-8s-built-in-backup-tool |url-status=live }} Unlike Backup and Restore, File History cannot back up files encrypted with EFS.{{cite web|last=Lyakhovitskiy|first=Grigory|title=File history backup on bitlocker protected target|url=http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/722cd7b7-34cb-4aa0-a1c9-412fc0a43578/file-history-backup-on-bitlocker-protected-target|access-date=January 7, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004213609/http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/722cd7b7-34cb-4aa0-a1c9-412fc0a43578/file-history-backup-on-bitlocker-protected-target|archive-date=October 4, 2013|url-status=dead}}

Windows 8 adds native support for USB 3.0, which allows for faster data transfers and improved power management with compatible devices.{{cite web |first=Dennis |last=Flanagan |editor-first=Steven |editor-last=Sinofsky |editor-link=Steven Sinofsky |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/22/building-robust-usb-3-0-support.aspx |title=Building robust USB 3.0 support |website=Building Windows 8 |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=February 17, 2012 |archive-date=February 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224014118/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/22/building-robust-usb-3-0-support.aspx |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396 |title=Microsoft to provide USB 3.0 support for better battery life in Windows 8 |website=ZDNet |publisher=CBS Interactive |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926134525/http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396 |archive-date=September 26, 2011 |url-status=dead }} This native stack includes support for the newer, more efficient USB Attached SCSI (UAS) protocol,{{cite web |first=Jerome |last=Myers |url=http://plugable.com/2012/10/25/usb-3-0-support-on-windows-8 |title=New USB 3.0 Support Built-In to Windows 8 |website=Plugable |date=October 25, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=February 1, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201154348/http://plugable.com/2012/10/25/usb-3-0-support-on-windows-8 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn423379%28v=vs.85%29.aspx#loadeddriver |title=USB in Windows - FAQ (Windows Drivers) |website=MSDN |publisher=Microsoft |date=November 16, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 5, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140105230801/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn423379(v=vs.85).aspx#loadeddriver |url-status=live }} which is turned on by default even for USB 2.0 devices,{{Cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/jj248714.aspx |title=USB Attached SCSI (UAS) Best Practices for Windows 8 |website=MSDN |publisher=Microsoft |format=Office Open XML |page=6 |date=July 24, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=February 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130206235329/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/jj248714.aspx |url-status=live }} although these must however have supporting firmware/hardware to take advantage of it. Windows 8.1 enhanced support for power saving features of USB storage devices, but this addition was not without problems, with some poorly implemented hardware degrading user experience by hangs and disconnects.{{cite web |first=Jim |last=Bovee |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/usbcoreblog/archive/2013/11/01/help-after-installing-windows-8-1-my-usb-drive-disappears-or-file-transfers-stop-unexpectedly-r-a-post-title.aspx |title=Help! After installing Windows 8.1, my USB drive disappears or file transfers stop unexpectedly… |website=Microsoft Windows USB Core Team Blog |publisher=Microsoft |date=October 31, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122103020/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/usbcoreblog/archive/2013/11/01/help-after-installing-windows-8-1-my-usb-drive-disappears-or-file-transfers-stop-unexpectedly-r-a-post-title.aspx |url-status=live }} Windows 8 adds support for HID over I2C.[https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/drivers/hid/hid-over-i2c-guide Introduction to HID over I2C]

Support for Advanced Format hard drives without emulation is included for the first time.{{cite web |title=Advanced format (4K) disk compatibility update (Windows) |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848035(v=vs.85).aspx |website=MSDN |publisher=Microsoft |date=November 28, 2012 |access-date=January 3, 2013 |archive-date=January 11, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130111233631/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848035(v=vs.85).aspx |url-status=live }}

A port of Windows for the ARM architecture was also created for Windows 8. Known as Windows RT, it is specifically optimized for mobile devices such as tablets. Windows RT is only able to run third-party Windows Store apps, but comes with a preinstalled version of Office 2013 specially redesigned for touchscreen use.{{cite web |first=Brandon |last=LeBlanc |url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/04/16/announcing-the-windows-8-editions.aspx |title=Announcing the Windows 8 Editions |website=The Windows Blog |publisher=Microsoft |date=April 16, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=March 11, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130311222307/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2012/04/16/announcing-the-windows-8-editions.aspx |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 improves hardware support with DirectX 11.2.{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/apps/bg182410 |title=Windows 8.1 Preview: New APIs and features for developers |work=MSDN Library |publisher=Microsoft |date=June 26, 2013 |access-date=June 27, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130628080725/http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/apps/bg182410 |archive-date=June 28, 2013 |url-status=dead }}

Windows 8.1 adds native support for NVM Express. Windows 8.1 adds support for Precise Touchpad, which allows operating system to management gestures of USB and I2C touchpads.https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/precision-touchpad-devices

Windows 8 adds support for UEFI Secure Boot, and TPM 2.0. UEFI with secure boot enabled is a requirement on computers shipped with Windows 8.{{cite web | url=https://www.networkworld.com/article/738394/microsoft-subnet-next-gen-boot-spec-could-forever-lock-linux-off-windows-8-pcs.html | title=Next-gen boot spec could forever lock Linux off Windows 8 PCS }}{{cite web | url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-will-complicate-linux-installs/ | title=Windows 8 secure boot could complicate Linux installs | date=September 21, 2011 }}

Alongside the existing WinPE-based Windows Setup (which is used for installations that are initiated by booting from DVD, USB, or network), Upgrade Assistant is offered to provide a simpler and faster process for upgrading to Windows 8 from previous versions of Windows. The program runs a compatibility check to scan the device's hardware and software for Windows 8 compatibility, and then allows the user to purchase, download, generate installation media with a DVD or USB flash drive and install Windows 8. The new installation process also allows users to transfer user data into a clean installation of Windows.{{cite web | first=Paul | last=McDougall | url=http://www.informationweek.com/windows/microsoft-news/microsoft-reveals-windows-8-upgrade-pric/240003119 | title=Microsoft Reveals Windows 8 Upgrade Price | website=InformationWeek | publisher=UBM | date=July 3, 2012 | access-date=July 4, 2012 | archive-date=August 10, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810013404/http://www.informationweek.com/windows/microsoft-news/microsoft-reveals-windows-8-upgrade-pric/240003119 | url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=Improving the setup experience|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/11/21/improving-the-setup-experience.aspx|work=Building Windows 8|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 18, 2012|archive-date=September 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120910061633/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/11/21/improving-the-setup-experience.aspx|url-status=live}} A similar program, branded as Windows 8 Setup, is used for installations where the user already has a product key.{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Download a Windows 8.1 ISO with a Windows 8 Product Key|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-download-windows-81-iso-windows-8-product-key|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=October 20, 2013|archive-date=October 20, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020175536/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-download-windows-81-iso-windows-8-product-key|url-status=live}}

Windows 8 implements OEM Activation 3.0, which allows Microsoft to digitally distribute Windows licenses to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Windows 8 devices store product keys directly in firmware rather than printed on a Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) sticker. This new system is designed to prevent OEM product keys from being used on computers they are not licensed for, and also allows the installer to automatically detect and accept the product key in the event of re-installation.{{cite web|last=Whitney|first=Lance|title=Windows 8 moves to BIOS-based product keys|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57554240-292/windows-8-moves-to-bios-based-product-keys/|work=CNET|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=November 29, 2012|archive-date=November 29, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129045741/http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57554240-292/windows-8-moves-to-bios-based-product-keys/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Windows 8 to Feature New OEM Activation Method|url=http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Windows-8-OEM-OA-3.0-Piracy-Genuine-Microsoft,16636.html|website=Tom's Guide|date=August 4, 2012 |publisher=Purch Inc.|access-date=July 8, 2014|archive-date=April 11, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130411235048/http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Windows-8-OEM-OA-3.0-Piracy-Genuine-Microsoft,16636.html|url-status=live}}

Windows 8.1 Update adds a new installation mode known as "WIMBoot", where the WIM image that contains the Windows installation is left compressed rather than being extracted, and the system is configured to use files directly from within the system image. This installation method was primarily designed to reduce the footprint of the Windows installation on devices with small amounts of storage. The system image also doubles as the recovery image, speeding up Refresh and Reset operations.{{cite web|title=What is Windows Image Boot (WIMBoot)?|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2014/04/10/what-is-windows-image-boot-wimboot.aspx|work=Springboard Series Blog|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=April 11, 2014|archive-date=April 13, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413124550/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2014/04/10/what-is-windows-image-boot-wimboot.aspx|url-status=live}} It is only supported in systems with a Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI), where Windows is located on a solid-state drive or eMMC.{{cite web|title=Windows Image File Boot (WIMBoot) Overview|url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn594399.aspx|work=TechNet|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=April 11, 2014|archive-date=April 12, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140412001236/http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn594399.aspx|url-status=live}}

Windows 8 incorporates improved support for mobile broadband as a "first-class" method of internet connectivity. Upon the insertion of a SIM card, the operating system will automatically determine the user's carrier and configure relevant connection settings using an Access Point Name database. The operating system can also monitor mobile data usage, and changes its behavior accordingly to reduce bandwidth use on metered networks. Carriers can also offer their own dedicated Windows Store apps for account management, which can also be installed automatically as a part of the connection process. This functionality was demonstrated with an AT&T app, which could also display monthly data usage statistics on its live tile. Windows 8 also reduces the need for third-party drivers and software to implement mobile broadband by providing a generic driver, and by providing an integrated airplane mode option.{{cite web|title=Engineering Windows 8 for mobile networks|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/20/engineering-windows-8-for-mobility.aspx|work=Building Windows 8|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=19 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180504225626/https://blogs.msdn.microsoft.com/b8/2012/01/20/engineering-windows-8-for-mobile-networks/|archive-date=4 May 2018}}{{cite web |url=https://channel9.msdn.com/Posts/Engineering-Windows-8-for-mobility |format=MP4 |title=Engineering Windows 8 for mobility |last=Beaver |first=Roxanne |website=channel9.msdn.com |date=21 January 2012 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-date=August 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808171349/https://channel9.msdn.com/posts/Engineering-Windows-8-for-mobility |url-status=live }}

Windows 8 supports geolocation.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/windowsappdev/archive/2013/05/22/create-location-aware-apps-using-geolocation-and-bing-maps.aspx |title=Create location aware apps using geolocation and Bing Maps |last=Heise |first=Ross |date=May 22, 2013 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Windows 8 app developer blog |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=March 4, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150304201855/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/windowsappdev/archive/2013/05/22/create-location-aware-apps-using-geolocation-and-bing-maps.aspx |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/buildingapps/2013/08/20/creating-smarter-apps-with-geofencing/ |title=Creating smarter apps with geofencing |publisher=Microsoft |work=Blogging Windows |date=August 20, 2013 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=January 15, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150115081344/http://blogs.windows.com/buildingapps/2013/08/20/creating-smarter-apps-with-geofencing/ |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 adds support for NFC printing,{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/business/archive/2013/06/03/modern-business-in-mind-windows-8-1-at-teched-2013.aspx |title=Modern Business in Mind: Windows 8.1 at TechEd 2013 |publisher=Blogs.windows.com |date=3 June 2013 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603182625/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/business/archive/2013/06/03/modern-business-in-mind-windows-8-1-at-teched-2013.aspx |archive-date=June 3, 2013 |last=Visser |first=Erwin |url-status=live }} mobile broadband tethering, auto-triggered VPN and geofencing.{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/bg182884.aspx |title=Networking |publisher=Microsoft |work=Windows Dev Center |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150325013242/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/bg182884.aspx |archive-date=March 25, 2015 |url-status=dead }}

Windows 8.1 Update provides options for the "Network" Settings charm to show the estimated data usage for a selected network, and to designate a network as a metered connection.

File:Windows 8 booting.png; OEMs can replace the Windows logo above the throbber with their own logo in firmware]]

Windows 8 defaults to a "Fast startup" mode; when the operating system is shut down, it hibernates the kernel, allowing for a faster boot on the subsequent startup.{{cite web|title=How to, uh, turn Windows 8 off|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57389397-75/how-to-uh-turn-windows-8-off/|website=CNET|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=August 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120823085204/http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57389397-75/how-to-uh-turn-windows-8-off/|url-status=live}} These improvements are further compounded by using all processor cores during startup by default.{{cite web | url=http://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/microsoft-touts-incredible-windows-8-boot-times-140515 | title=Microsoft Touts Incredible Windows 8 Boot Times | access-date=September 9, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329125702/http://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/microsoft-touts-incredible-windows-8-boot-times-140515 | archive-date=March 29, 2012 | url-status=dead }} To create a more seamless transition between the Power-on self-test and Windows startup process, manufacturers' logos can now be shown on the Windows boot screen on compatible systems with UEFI.

The Advanced Startup menu now uses a graphical interface with mouse and touch support in place of the text-based menu used by previous versions. As the increased boot speed of devices with UEFI can make it difficult to access it using keyboard shortcuts during boot, the menu can now be launched from within Windows—using either the PC Settings app, holding down Shift while clicking the Restart option in the Power menu, or by using the new "-o" switch on shutdown.exe.{{cite web|title=Reengineering the Windows boot experience|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/20/reengineering-the-windows-boot-experience.aspx|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=May 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120509201107/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/20/reengineering-the-windows-boot-experience.aspx|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Designing for PCs that boot faster than ever before|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/22/designing-for-pcs-that-boot-faster-than-ever-before.aspx|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=January 29, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130129041854/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/22/designing-for-pcs-that-boot-faster-than-ever-before.aspx|url-status=live}} though the legacy version of the Advanced Startup menu can still be enabled instead.{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/ff542202%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |title=BCDEdit /set (Windows Drivers) |work=Windows Dev Center |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=July 23, 2013 |archive-date=July 24, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130724064850/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/ff542202(v=vs.85).aspx |url-status=live }}

UEFI firmware can be exposed to Windows via class drivers. Updated firmware capsules can be distributed as an update to this "driver" in a signed package with an INF file and security catalog, similarly to those for other devices. When the "driver" is installed, Windows prepares the update to be installed on the next boot, and Windows Boot Manager renders status information on the device's boot screen.{{cite web|title=Windows UEFI Firmware Update Platform|url=http://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/download/details.aspx?id=38405|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=October 9, 2013|format=DOCX|archive-date=August 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150812073951/http://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/download/details.aspx?id=38405|url-status=live}}

Windows 8 includes WDDM 1.2 and DirectX Graphics Infrastructure (DXGI) 1.2. The Desktop Window Manager now runs at all times (even on systems with unsupported graphics cards; where DWM now also supports software rendering), and now also includes support for stereoscopic 3D content.{{cite web|title=Desktop Window Manager is always on|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848042%28v=vs.85%29.aspx|work=Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 Compatibility Cookbook|publisher=MSDN|access-date=September 4, 2012|archive-date=July 28, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728004613/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848042(v=vs.85).aspx|url-status=live}}

Other major features include preemptive multitasking with finer granularity (DMA buffer, primitive, triangle, pixel, or instruction-level),{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh404504 |title=DXGI_Graphics_Preemption_Granularity Enumeration |publisher=Microsoft |work=Microsoft Developer Network |date=November 16, 2013 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023201730/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh404504 |url-status=live }} reduced memory footprint, improved resource sharing, and improved timeout detection and recovery. 16-bit color surface formats (565, 5551, 4444) are mandatory in Windows 8, and Direct3D 11 Video supports YUV 4:4:4/4:2:2/4:2:0/4:1:1 video formats with 8, 10, and 16-bit precision, as well as 4 and 8-bit palettized formats.{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb173059 |title=DXGI_FORMAT enumeration |publisher=Microsoft |work=Microsoft Developer Network |date=November 16, 2013 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023201736/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb173059 |url-status=live }} Display-only and render-only WDDM drivers were also supported. Display-only WDDM drivers allow basic 2D-only video adapters and virtual displays to function while contents are rendered by existing renderers or a software rasterizer. Render-only WDDM drivers will render screen contents to specified display processors, commonly seen on laptops with dedicated GPUs. Otherwise, a full graphics WDDM driver will function as both of the display and rendering.{{cite web |url=https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/drivers/display/wddm-in-windows-8 |title=WDDM 1.2 and Windows 8 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Microsoft Docs |date=December 15, 2021 |access-date=May 31, 2022 |archive-date=March 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220321075957/https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/drivers/display/wddm-in-windows-8 |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 introduces WDDM 1.3{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn265512%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |title=What's new for Windows 8.1 display drivers (WDDM 1.3) |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402113112/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn265512%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |url-status=live }} and adds support for Miracast, which enables wireless or wired delivery of compressed standard- or high-definition video to or from desktops, tablets, mobile phones, and other devices.

Windows 8 adds support for printer driver architecture version 4. This adds a Metro friendly interface as well as changes the way the architecture was written.{{cite web | url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/25/simplifying-printing-in-windows-8.aspx | title=Simplifying printing in Windows 8 | publisher=Microsoft | work=Building Windows 8 | date=July 25, 2012 | access-date=June 4, 2013 | first=Adrian | last=Lannin | editor-first=Steven | editor-last=Sinofsky | editor-link=Steven Sinofsky | archive-date=May 28, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130528051733/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/25/simplifying-printing-in-windows-8.aspx | url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 adds support for Wi-Fi Direct printing, NFC printing, and native APIs for 3D printing through the XML-based 3D Manufacturing Format (3MF).{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 to support 3D printing through native API|url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/06/26/windows-8-1-to-natively-support-3d-printing/|work=Engadget|date=June 26, 2013 |access-date=August 6, 2013|archive-date=August 25, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825201936/http://www.engadget.com/2013/06/26/windows-8-1-to-natively-support-3d-printing/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=3D Printing Support in Windows 8.1 Explained|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|work=Extreme Windows|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=August 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822184811/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|url-status=live}}

{{Main|Windows PowerShell}}

Windows PowerShell is Microsoft's task automation framework, consisting of a command-line shell and associated scripting language built on .NET Framework. PowerShell provides full access to COM and WMI, enabling administrators to perform administrative tasks on both local and remote Windows systems. Windows 8 includes Windows PowerShell v3.0.{{cite web|title=Installing Windows PowerShell|url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh847837.aspx|work=TechNet|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 15, 2013|archive-date=September 18, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130918031402/http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/hh847837.aspx|url-status=live}} Windows 8.1 comes with Windows PowerShell v4.0 which features a host of new commands for managing the Start screen, Windows Defender, Windows components, hardware and network.{{cite web|last=Rivera|first=Rafael|title=Windows 8.1, PowerShell 4.0, and new cmdlets|url=http://withinwindows.com/within-windows/2013/4/7/windows-81-powershell-40-and-new-cmdlets|work=Within Windows|access-date=April 25, 2013|date=April 24, 2013|archive-date=May 30, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530193208/http://withinwindows.com/within-windows/2013/4/7/windows-81-powershell-40-and-new-cmdlets|url-status=live}}

File:Windows To Go USB Drive.png USB flash drive]]

{{Main|Windows To Go}}

Windows To Go is a feature exclusive to the Enterprise version of Windows 8 which allows an organization to provision bootable USB flash drives with a Windows installation on them, allowing users to access their managed environment on any compatible PC.{{cite magazine |author=Gregg Keizer |url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9220004/Windows_8_will_run_from_USB_thumb_drive?taxonomyId=125 |title=Windows 8 will run from USB thumb drive |magazine=Computerworld |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012085732/http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9220004/Windows_8_will_run_from_USB_thumb_drive?taxonomyId=125 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/232480/scitech/windows-8-fits-on-a-thumb-drive |title=Windows 8 fits on a thumb drive - Technology - GMA News On-line - Latest Philippine News |date=September 15, 2011 |publisher=Gmanews.tv |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402093419/http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/232480/scitech/windows-8-fits-on-a-thumb-drive |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-8-Running-on-a-USB-Windows-To-Go-221470.shtml |title=Windows 8 Running on a USB – Windows To Go - Softpedia |date=September 13, 2011 |publisher=News.softpedia.com |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=October 4, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004135900/http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-8-Running-on-a-USB-Windows-To-Go-221470.shtml |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/windows-8-to-feature-usb-runnable-portable-workspaces-sales-of/ |title=Windows 8 to feature USB-runnable Portable Workspaces, sales of 16GB thumb drives set to soar |publisher=Engadget |date=April 15, 2011 |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=August 28, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828165858/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/windows-8-to-feature-usb-runnable-portable-workspaces-sales-of |url-status=live }} Windows 8.1 updates this feature to enable booting from a USB composite device with a storage and a smart card function.{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/bg182886.aspx |title=Security |publisher=Microsoft |work=Windows Dev Center |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324225208/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/bg182886.aspx |archive-date=March 24, 2015 |url-status=dead }}

The Action Center introduced in Windows 7 is expanded to include controls and notifications for new categories, including: device software, drive health, File History, HomeGroup status, Microsoft account status, SmartScreen, and Windows activation. Additionally, there is a new Automatic Maintenance feature, which can periodically perform a number of maintenance tasks, such as diagnostics, malware scans, and updates to improve system performance.{{cite web |url=http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/keep-tabs-on-performance-in-windows-8-with-action-center/6422 |title=Keep tabs on performance in Windows 8 with Action Center |last=Shultz |first=Greg |date=August 2, 2012 |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=TechRepublic |access-date=February 27, 2015 |archive-date=May 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516092237/http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/window-on-windows/keep-tabs-on-performance-in-windows-8-with-action-center/6422 |url-status=live }}

PC Settings app in Windows 8 can be used to interact with Windows Update, although the traditional interface from Control Panel is retained. Windows 8 is able to distribute firmware updates on compatible devices and can be configured not to automatically download Windows updates over metered networks.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/olivnie/archive/2013/04/05/updates-and-maintenance.aspx |title=Windows 8: Updates and Maintenance |last=Niehus |first=Oliver |date=April 5, 2013 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Oliver's Blog |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-date=February 28, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150228141700/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/olivnie/archive/2013/04/05/updates-and-maintenance.aspx |url-status=live }} A new set of Windows PowerShell cmdlets enable adding or removing features of Windows, as Programs and Features applet in Control Panel does. The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) utility in Windows 8 includes all features that were previously available in ImageX and is able to periodically check for component store corruption and repair it. It can report the amount of disk space in use by WinSxS folder and can also determine if a cleanup should be performed.{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn251566.aspx |title=Determine the Actual Size of the WinSxS Folder |publisher=Microsoft |date=October 20, 2013 |work=TechNet |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-date=April 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150411092737/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn251566.aspx |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://blogs.technet.com/b/askcore/archive/2014/03/06/what-s-new-in-windows-servicing-part-1.aspx |title=What's New in Windows Servicing: Part 1 |editor-last=Marlin |editor-first=John |first=Aditya |last=Kapur |date=March 6, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Ask the Core Team |access-date=March 3, 2015 |archive-date=March 8, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150308151211/http://blogs.technet.com/b/askcore/archive/2014/03/06/what-s-new-in-windows-servicing-part-1.aspx |url-status=live }}

Windows 8 can now detect when a system is experiencing issues that have been preventing the system from functioning correctly, and automatically launch the Advanced Startup menu to access diagnostic and repair functions.

For system recovery, Windows 8 introduced new functions known collectively as "Push-button reset", which allows a user to re-install Windows without needing to use installation media. The feature consists of "Reset" and "Refresh" functions, accessible from within the advanced boot options menu and PC Settings. Both of these options reboot the system into the Windows Recovery Environment to perform the requested operation; Refresh preserves user profiles, settings, and Windows Store apps, while Reset performs a clean installation of Windows. The reset function may also perform specialized disk wiping and formatting procedures for added security. Both operations will remove all installed desktop applications from the system. Users can also create a custom disk image for use with Refresh and Reset.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/04/refresh-and-reset-your-pc.aspx |title=Refresh and reset your PC |work=Building Windows 8 |editor-first=Steven |editor-last=Sinofsky |first=Desmond |last=Lee |publisher=Microsoft |date=January 2012 |access-date=February 17, 2012 |archive-date=February 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224005154/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/04/refresh-and-reset-your-pc.aspx |url-status=live }}{{cite web |first=Peter |last=Bright |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/making-the-lives-of-it-easier-windows-8-refresh-reset-and-windows-to-go/ |title=Making the lives of IT easier: Windows 8 Refresh, Reset, and Windows To Go |work=Ars Technica |publisher=Condé Nast |date=September 19, 2011 |access-date=June 14, 2017 |archive-date=September 12, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912234417/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/making-the-lives-of-it-easier-windows-8-refresh-reset-and-windows-to-go/ |url-status=live }}

Address space layout randomization (ASLR) introduced in Windows Vista{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/michael_howard/archive/2006/05/26/608315.aspx |title=Address Space Layout Randomization in Windows Vista |last=Howard |first=Michael |date=May 26, 2006 |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060529215417/http://blogs.msdn.com/michael_howard/archive/2006/05/26/608315.aspx |archive-date=May 29, 2006 |access-date=March 20, 2023}} was improved in Windows 8{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn169048.aspx |title=What's Changed in Security Technologies in Windows 8 |author=Microsoft |date=April 12, 2013 |work=TechNet |access-date=April 19, 2015 |archive-date=July 8, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708125243/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn169048.aspx |url-status=live }} and has been updated in Windows 8.1 to allow randomization to be unique across devices.{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn344918.aspx |title=What's Changed in Security Technologies in Windows 8.1 |author=Microsoft |date=July 24, 2013 |work=TechNet |access-date=April 19, 2015 |archive-date=February 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217073244/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn344918.aspx |url-status=live }}

Windows 8 introduces virtual smart card support. A digital certificate of a smart card can be stored onto a user's machine and protected by the Trusted Platform Module, thereby eliminating the need for the user to physically insert a smart card, though entering a PIN is still required. Virtual smart card support enables new two-factor authentication scenarios. Windows 8.1 improves this functionality by simplifying the device enrollment process for virtual smart cards and introduces additional virtual smart card functionality such as certificate attestation for Metro-style applications, and enrollment and management features via WinRT APIs.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.technet.com/b/canitpro/archive/2013/08/08/windows-8-1-preview-security-re-visited.aspx |title=Windows 8.1 Preview Security Re-visited |last=Roman |first=Pierre |date=August 8, 2013 |publisher=Microsoft |work=TechNet Blogs |access-date=June 6, 2015 |archive-date=July 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710173556/http://blogs.technet.com/b/canitpro/archive/2013/08/08/windows-8-1-preview-security-re-visited.aspx |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 features pervasive support for biometric authentication throughout the operating system,{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/dn140266.aspx |title=Windows 8.1 - What's New, IT Pro Features, Devices, UI |publisher=Microsoft |work=TechNet |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=February 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211024857/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/dn140266.aspx |url-status=live }} includes a native fingerprint registration feature,{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn344916.aspx |title=What's New in Biometrics in Windows 8.1 |publisher=Microsoft |work=TechNet |date=July 24, 2013 |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=January 29, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150129164454/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn344916.aspx |url-status=live }} and enables the use of a fingerprint for tasks such as signing into a device, purchasing apps from the Windows Store, and consenting to authentication prompts (e.g., User Account Control). Windows 8.1 also introduces new WinRT APIs for biometrics.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.technet.com/b/askpfeplat/archive/2014/01/20/biometrics-in-windows-8-1.aspx |title=Biometrics in Windows 8.1 |last=Morowczynski |first=Mark |date=January 19, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=TechNet Blogs |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402151123/http://blogs.technet.com/b/askpfeplat/archive/2014/01/20/biometrics-in-windows-8-1.aspx |url-status=live }}

On Windows RT, logging in with a Microsoft account automatically activates passive device encryption, a feature-limited version of BitLocker which seamlessly encrypts the contents of mobile devices to protect their contents. On Windows 8.1, device encryption is similarly available for x86-based Windows devices, automatically encrypting user data as soon as the operating system is configured. When a user signs in with a Microsoft account or on a supported Active Directory network, a recovery key is generated and saved directly to the user's account. Unlike BitLocker, device encryption on x86-based devices requires that the device meet the Connected Standby specifications (which among other requirements, requires that the device use solid-state storage and have RAM soldered directly to the motherboard) and have a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0 chip.{{cite web |first=Andrew |last=Cunningham |title=Windows 8.1 includes seamless, automatic disk encryption—if your PC supports it |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2013/10/windows-8-1-includes-seamless-automatic-disk-encryption-if-your-pc-supports-it/ |work=Ars Technica |publisher=Condé Nast |date=October 17, 2013 |access-date=October 18, 2013 |archive-date=July 5, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140705171318/http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2013/10/windows-8-1-includes-seamless-automatic-disk-encryption-if-your-pc-supports-it/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=In Blue: Device Encryption |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-device-encryption |work=SuperSite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |date=January 20, 2014 |access-date=June 10, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130609041130/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-device-encryption |archive-date=June 9, 2013 |url-status=dead }}

Windows 8.1 introduces Assigned Access, formerly called Kiosk mode, which restricts the Windows device to a running a single predetermined Metro-style app.{{cite web|last=Rivera|first=Rafael|title=Blue's Clues: Enabling Kiosk Mode|url=http://withinwindows.com/within-windows/2013/4/23/blues-clues-enabling-kiosk-mode|work=Within Windows|access-date=April 24, 2013|date=April 23, 2013|archive-date=April 26, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130426014014/http://withinwindows.com/within-windows/2013/4/23/blues-clues-enabling-kiosk-mode|url-status=live}}{{cite web |first=Paul |last=Thurrott |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=Blue's Clues: Kiosk Mode |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-s-clues-kiosk-mode |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=Penton Media |access-date=April 24, 2013 |date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130426034817/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-s-clues-kiosk-mode |archive-date=April 26, 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 / Blue Renames Kiosk Mode to "Assigned Access"|url=http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-8-1-Blue-Renames-Kiosk-Mode-to-Assigned-Access-349854.shtml|work=Softpedia|publisher=SoftNews|access-date=June 30, 2013|date=May 1, 2013|archive-date=May 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130504005905/http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-8-1-Blue-Renames-Kiosk-Mode-to-Assigned-Access-349854.shtml|url-status=live}}

Windows 8.1 was slated to include a Provable PC Health feature which would allow owners to subject devices connected to a network to remote PC analysis. Under Provable PC Health, connected devices would periodically send various configuration-related information to a cloud service, which would provide suggestions for remediation upon detection of an issue. However, the feature was dropped before the operating system's general availability.{{cite web |url=http://www.notebookreview.com/news/a-windows-8-1-security-feature-goes-missing-why/ |title=A Windows 8.1 Security Feature Goes Missing: Why? |last=Emigh |first=Jacqueline |date=November 25, 2013 |publisher=TechTarget |work=Notebook Review |access-date=May 16, 2015 |archive-date=July 10, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710053623/http://www.notebookreview.com/news/a-windows-8-1-security-feature-goes-missing-why/ |url-status=live }}

Windows 8 integrates Windows Live Family Safety into the operating system, allowing parents to restrict user activity via web filtering, application restriction, and computer usage time limits.{{cite web | url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/14/keeping-your-family-safer-with-windows-8.aspx | title=Keeping your family safer with Windows 8 | publisher=Microsoft | work=Building Windows 8 | date=May 14, 2012 | access-date=May 16, 2013 | first1=Phil | last1=Sohn | editor-first=Steven | editor-last=Sinofsky | archive-date=May 21, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521140319/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/14/keeping-your-family-safer-with-windows-8.aspx | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=https://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/windows-8-family-safety-feature-chaperones-underage-users-thro/#disqus_thread | title=Windows 8 'Family Safety' feature chaperones underage users through the World Wild Web | publisher=Engadget | work=Aol | date=May 14, 2012 | access-date=May 16, 2013 | first1=Joseph | last1=Volpe | archive-date=June 6, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130606193005/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/14/windows-8-family-safety-feature-chaperones-underage-users-thro/#disqus_thread | url-status=live }}{{cite web | url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/255582/microsoft_win8_simplifies_improves_parental_monitoring_of_kids_computer_activities.html | title=Microsoft: Win8 Simplifies, Improves Parental Monitoring of Kids Computer Activities | PCWorld Business Center | publisher=PC World | work=IDG | date=May 14, 2012 | access-date=May 22, 2013 | first1=Juan Carlos | last1=Perez | archive-date=May 25, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525092553/http://www.pcworld.com/article/255582/microsoft_win8_simplifies_improves_parental_monitoring_of_kids_computer_activities.html | url-status=live }} Certain parental controls functionality introduced in Windows Vista was made unavailable in Windows 7 in favor of Windows Live Family Safety.{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dd630560(VS.85).aspx |title=Windows 7 Parental Controls Changes Overview |publisher=Msdn.microsoft.com |access-date=July 9, 2013 |archive-date=April 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210401084021/https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/win32/parcon/what-s-new-in-windows-7-parental-controls?redirectedfrom=MSDN |url-status=live }} A notable change in Family Safety is that administrators can now specify time periods for computer usage. For example, an administrator can restrict a user account so that it can only remained signed in for a total time period of one hour. In previous versions of Windows, administrators could only restrict accounts based on the time of day.{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/jj155495%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |title=What's New in Windows 8 Family Safety |publisher=Microsoft |work=Windows Dev Center |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=January 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150118095220/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/jj155495(v=vs.85).aspx |url-status=live }}

Protected processes introduced in Windows Vista for digital rights management have been extended in Windows 8.1 to support additional scenarios along with a new Protected Process Light scheme. In Windows Vista, processes for digital rights management were either protected or unprotected. With the new scheme in Windows 8.1, processes can be assigned varying levels of protection, and core operating system components such as the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service can be protected by this scheme to prevent reading memory and code injection by non-protected processes.{{cite web |url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/security/credentials-protection-and-management/configuring-additional-lsa-protection |title=Configuring Additional LSA Protection |date=September 30, 2022 |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=March 14, 2023}}

Windows 8 introduced four new features to offer security during the startup process: UEFI secure boot, Trusted Boot, Measured Boot and Early Launch Anti-Malware (ELAM).{{Cite web|url = https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/dn168167.aspx|title = Securing the Windows 8 Boot Process|access-date = 19 December 2020|website = technet.microsoft.com|publisher = Microsoft|date = 2013|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150215214312/https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/dn168167.aspx|archive-date = February 15, 2015|url-status = live}}{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn653311(v=vs.85).aspx |title=Secured Boot and Measured Boot: Hardening Early Boot Components Against Malware |website=msdn.microsoft.com |date=2013 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161111101939/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn653311%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |archive-date=November 11, 2016 |url-status=live }}

Of the four, secure boot is not a native feature of Windows 8; it is part of UEFI. At startup, the UEFI firmware checks the validity of a digital signature present in the Windows Boot Loader (bootmgfw.efi), which is signed with Microsoft's public key. This signature check happens every time the computer is booted and prevents malware from infecting the system before the operating system loads.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx |title=Protecting the pre-OS environment with UEFI |website=blogs.msdn.com |last=Sinofsky |first=Steven |date=22 September 2011 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120802042640/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx |archive-date=August 2, 2012 |url-status=live }} The UEFI firmware will only allow signatures from keys that has been enrolled into its database, and, prior to Windows 8 release, Microsoft announced that certified computers had to ship with the Microsoft's public key enrolled and with secure boot enabled by default. However, following the announcement, the company was accused by critics and free and open-source software advocates (including the Free Software Foundation) of trying to use the secure boot to hinder or outright prevent the installation of alternative operating systems such as Linux. Microsoft denied that the secure boot requirement was intended to serve as a form of lock-in, and clarified that x86 certified systems (but not ARM systems) must allow secure boot to enter custom mode or be disabled.{{Cite web|url = https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-will-complicate-linux-installs/|title = Windows 8 secure boot could complicate Linux installs|date = 21 September 2011|website = www.arstechnica.com|last = Brodkin|first = Jon|access-date = 19 December 2020|archive-date = November 12, 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201112035225/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-will-complicate-linux-installs/|url-status = live}}{{Cite web|url = https://www.pcworld.com/article/248342/windows_8_secure_boot_the_controversy_continues.html|title = Windows 8 Secure Boot: The Controversy Continues|date = January 18, 2012|website = PC World|publisher = IDG|last = Noyes|first = Katherine|access-date = September 17, 2017|archive-date = October 5, 2012|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121005023808/http://www.pcworld.com/article/248342/windows_8_secure_boot_the_controversy_continues.html|url-status = live}}

Trusted Boot is a feature of Windows boot loader and ensures the integrity of all Microsoft components loaded into memory, including ELAM, which loads last. ELAM ensures that all third-party boot drivers are trustworthy; they are not loaded if ELAM check fails. ELAM can use either Windows Defender or a third-party compatible antivirus. During the 2011 Build conference in Anaheim, California, Microsoft showed a Windows 8 machine that can prevent an infected USB flash memory from compromising the boot process.{{Cite web|url = http://www.cnet.com/news/windows-8-to-offer-built-in-malware-protection/|title = Windows 8 to offer built-in malware protection|date = September 15, 2011|website = CNET|publisher = CBS Interactive|last = Whitney|first = Lance|access-date = February 16, 2015|archive-date = August 5, 2014|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140805102618/http://www.cnet.com/news/windows-8-to-offer-built-in-malware-protection/|url-status = live}}{{Cite web|url = https://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-8-will-ship-with-built-in-antivirus-protection/|title = Windows 8 will ship with built-in antivirus protection|date = September 13, 2011|website = ZDNet|publisher = CBS Interactive|last = Kingsley-Hughes|first = Adrian|access-date = February 16, 2015|archive-date = February 16, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150216085336/http://www.zdnet.com/article/windows-8-will-ship-with-built-in-antivirus-protection/|url-status = live}}

Measured Boot can attest to the state of a client machine by sending details about its configuration to a remote machine. The feature relies on the attestation feature of the Trusted Platform Module and is designed to verify the boot integrity of the client.{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848050%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |title=Measured Boot |website=msdn.microsoft.com |access-date=19 December 2020 |date=6 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228110849/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848050(v=vs.85).aspx |archive-date=December 28, 2014 |url-status=live }}

Windows Platform Binary Table allows executable files to be stored within UEFI firmware for execution on startup. Microsoft states this feature is meant to "allow critical software to persist even when the operating system has changed or been reinstalled in a 'clean' configuration"; specifically, anti-theft security software; but this has also been mis-used, including by Lenovo with their "Lenovo Service Engine" feature.{{cite web|title=Lenovo used Windows anti-theft feature to install persistent crapware|url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2015/08/lenovo-used-windows-anti-theft-feature-to-install-persistent-crapware/|website=Ars Technica|publisher=Conde Nast|access-date=22 September 2015|date=12 August 2015|archive-date=December 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201181615/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2015/08/lenovo-used-windows-anti-theft-feature-to-install-persistent-crapware/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Windows and UEFI anti-theft mechanism makes systems less secure|url=http://www.techrepublic.com/article/windows-and-uefi-anti-theft-mechanism-makes-systems-less-secure/|website=TechRepublic|publisher=CBS Interactive|access-date=6 February 2017|date=13 August 2015|last=Sanders|first=James|archive-date=September 10, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150910160044/http://www.techrepublic.com/article/windows-and-uefi-anti-theft-mechanism-makes-systems-less-secure/|url-status=live}}

{{See also|Microsoft Defender#History}}

In Windows 7, Windows Defender was an anti-spyware solution. Windows 8 introduced Windows Defender as an antivirus solution (and as the successor of Microsoft Security Essentials), which provides protection against a broader range of malware. It was the first time that a standard Windows install included an antivirus solution.{{cite book |last1=Bott |first1=Ed |author-link1=Ed Bott |title=Introducing Windows 8.1 for IT Professionals - Technical Overview |year=2013 |publisher=Microsoft Press |publication-date=15 October 2013 |access-date=22 December 2020 |isbn=978-0-7356-8427-0 |url=https://download.microsoft.com/download/E/5/3/E5395265-D2CD-4451-A2BB-B4504C000E80/Microsoft_Press_ebook_Introducing_Windows_ITPro_PDF.pdf |archive-date=December 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201204016/https://download.microsoft.com/DOWNLOAD/E/5/3/E5395265-D2CD-4451-A2BB-B4504C000E80/MICROSOFT_PRESS_EBOOK_INTRODUCING_WINDOWS_ITPRO_PDF.PDF |url-status=live }}{{rp|53|q="Windows 8 was the first version of Windows to ship antimalware software in the box"}} Windows 8.1 augments it with network behavior monitoring, a new feature for Windows Defender.{{rp|53|q="In Windows 8.1, Windows Defender for the first time includes network behavior monitoring."}} For Microsoft Security Essentials, this feature has been present since July 2010.{{cite web |first=Brandon |last=LeBlanc |title=Beta for Next Version of Microsoft Security Essentials Now Available |url=https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2010/07/20/beta-for-next-version-of-microsoft-security-essentials-now-available/ |website=Blogging Windows |date=20 July 2010 |access-date=22 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016035623/http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2010/07/20/beta-for-next-version-of-microsoft-security-essentials-now-available/ |archive-date=16 October 2014 |url-status=live}}

Windows 8 includes various features that can be controlled through keyboard shortcuts.

• {{Keypress|Win|C}} Displays the Charms Bar.
• {{Keypress|Win|F}} Opens the Search charm to search for files.
• {{Keypress|Win|H}} Opens the Share charm.
• {{Keypress|Win|I}} Opens the Settings charm.
• {{Keypress|Win|J}} Switches between the active app and a snapped app.
• {{Keypress|Win|K}} Opens the Devices charm.
• {{Keypress|Win|O}} Locks the current display orientation.
• {{Keypress|Win|S}} Opens the Search charm to search for apps.
• {{Keypress|Win|Z}} Shows available app commands.
• {{Keypress|Win|+}} and {{Keypress|Win|-}} respectfully activate and deactivate semantic zoom.{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/cdnstudents/archive/2012/09/04/some-useful-keyboard-shortcuts-for-windows-8.aspx |title=Some useful keyboard shortcuts for Windows 8 |last=Ibach |first=Susan |date=September 4, 2012 |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN Blogs |access-date=April 23, 2015 |archive-date=June 18, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150618064749/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/cdnstudents/archive/2012/09/04/some-useful-keyboard-shortcuts-for-windows-8.aspx |url-status=live }}
• {{Keypress|Win|Space bar}} Switches the user's IME.
• {{Keypress|Win|Ctrl|Space bar}} Reverts to a previous IME.
• {{Keypress|Win|Tab}} Cycles through open Metro-style apps.
• {{Keypress|Win|Ctrl|Tab}} Cycles through open Metro-style apps and snaps them as they are cycled.
• {{Keypress|Win|Shift|Tab}} Cycles through open Metro-style apps in reverse order.
• {{Keypress|Win|PageUp}} In a multi-monitor configuration, moves the Start screen and open Metro-style apps to the display monitor on the left.
• {{Keypress|Win|PageDown}} In a multi-monitor configuration, moves the Start screen and open Metro-style apps to the display monitor on the right.
• {{Keypress|Win|,}} Initiates the Peek feature introduced in Windows 7.
• {{Keypress|Win|Shift|.}} Snaps an open Metro-style app to the left side of the screen.
• {{Keypress|Win|.}} Snaps an open Metro-style app to the right side of the screen.
• {{Keypress|Win|Print screen}} Takes a screenshot of the entire screen and saves it to a Screenshots folder within the Pictures directory.{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/take-screen-capture-print-screen#take-screen-capture-print-screen=windows-8 |title=Take a screen capture (print your screen) |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 28, 2015 |archive-date=June 22, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160622082224/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/take-screen-capture-print-screen#take-screen-capture-print-screen=windows-8 |url-status=live }} On a tablet, this feature can be accessed by simultaneously pressing a button with the Windows logo and a button that lowers the volume of the device.

Hyper-V, a native hypervisor previously offered only in Windows Server, is included in Windows 8 Pro, replacing Windows Virtual PC, a hosted hypervisor.{{cite web |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-20103376-75/windows-8-to-include-hyper-v-virtualization/ |title=Microsoft announces Hyper-V in Windows 8 |last=Whitney |first=Lance |date=September 8, 2011 |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=CNET |access-date=April 23, 2015 |archive-date=February 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224110328/http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-20103376-75/windows-8-to-include-hyper-v-virtualization/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-here-are-the-four-editions-of-windows-8/12461 |title=Microsoft: Here are the four editions of Windows 8 |last=Foley |first=Mary Jo |author-link=Mary Jo Foley |date=April 16, 2012 |publisher=CBS Interactive |work=ZDNet |access-date=April 23, 2015 |archive-date=November 3, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141103193505/http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-here-are-the-four-editions-of-windows-8/12461 |url-status=dead }}

Storage Spaces is a storage virtualization technology which succeeds Logical Disk Manager and allows the organization of physical disks into logical volumes similar to Logical Volume Manager (Linux), RAID0, RAID1 or RAID5, but at a higher abstraction level.{{cite web|last=Sinofsky|first=Steven |title=Virtualizing storage for scale, resiliency, and efficiency|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx |publisher=Building Windows 8 blog|date=January 5, 2012|access-date=January 6, 2012|archive-date=May 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130509100721/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx|url-status=dead}}

A storage space behaves like a physical disk to the user, with thin provisioning of available disk space. The spaces are organized within a storage pool, i.e. a collection of physical disks, that can span multiple disks of different sizes, performance or technology (USB, SATA, SAS). The process of adding new disks or replacing failed or older disks is fully automatic, but can be controlled with PowerShell commands. The same storage pool can host multiple storage spaces. Storage Spaces have built-in resiliency from disk failures, which is achieved by either disk mirroring or striping with parity across the physical disks. Each storage pool on the ReFS filesystem is limited to 4 PB (4096 TB), but there are no limits on the total number of storage pools or the number of storage spaces within a pool.{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/16/building-the-next-generation-file-system-for-windows-refs.aspx|title=Building the next generation file system for Windows: ReFS|publisher=Building Windows 8 Blog|date=January 16, 2012|access-date=January 17, 2012|archive-date=May 26, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526085329/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/16/building-the-next-generation-file-system-for-windows-refs.aspx|url-status=live}}

A review in Ars Technica concluded that "Storage Spaces in Windows 8 is a good foundation, but its current iteration is simply too flawed to recommend in most circumstances."{{cite web |last=Cunningham |first=Andrew |url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2012/10/storage-spaces-explained-a-great-feature-when-it-works/3/ |title=Storage Spaces explained: a great feature, when it works |website=Ars Technica |publisher=Condé Nast |date=October 28, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 10, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140110181411/http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2012/10/storage-spaces-explained-a-great-feature-when-it-works/3/ |url-status=live }} Microsoft MVP Helge Klein also criticized Storage Spaces as unsuitable for its touted market of SOHO users.{{cite web |url=http://helgeklein.com/blog/2012/03/windows-8-storage-spaces-bugs-and-design-flaws/ |title=Windows 8 Storage Spaces: Bugs and Design Flaws |first=Helge |last=Klein |website=Helgeklein.com |date=March 26, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=June 18, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160618090154/https://helgeklein.com/blog/2012/03/windows-8-storage-spaces-bugs-and-design-flaws/ |url-status=live }}

Storage Spaces was further enhanced in Windows Server 2012 R2 with tiering and caching support,{{cite web |url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-US/library/dn387076.aspx |title=What's New in Storage Spaces in Windows Server 2012 R2 |website=TechNet |publisher=Microsoft |date=September 11, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122233745/http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn387076.aspx |url-status=live }} which can be used for caching to SSD;{{cite web |last=Posey |first=Brien |url=http://redmondmag.com/articles/2013/10/28/ssd-write-back-cache.aspx |title=Using Windows Server 2012's SSD Write-Back Cache |website=Redmond Magazine |publisher=1105 Media |date=October 28, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=February 6, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140206021406/http://redmondmag.com/articles/2013/10/28/ssd-write-back-cache.aspx |url-status=live }} these new features were not added to Windows 8.1. Instead Windows 8.1 gained support for specific features of SSHD drives, e.g. for host-hinted LBA caching (TP_042v14_SATA31_Hybrid Information).{{Cite web |first=Andy |last=Herron |title=Advancements in Storage and File Systems in Windows 8.1 |url=http://snia.org/sites/default/files2/SDC2013/presentations/FileSystems/AndyHeron_Enhancements_To_Win81_Storage.pdf |work=Storage Developer Conference |publisher=SINA |year=2013 |location=Santa Clara |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140110193117/http://snia.org/sites/default/files2/SDC2013/presentations/FileSystems/AndyHeron_Enhancements_To_Win81_Storage.pdf |archive-date=January 10, 2014 |df=mdy-all }}

Windows 8.1 gained support for NVM Express (NVMe), a new industry standard protocol for PCIe-attached storage, such as PCIe flash cards.{{cite web |url=http://www.myce.com/news/windows-8-1-to-support-hybrid-disks-and-native-nvme-driver-68663/ |title=Windows 8.1 to support hybrid disks and adds native NVMe driver |website=Myce.com |date=September 6, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 10, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140110200352/http://www.myce.com/news/windows-8-1-to-support-hybrid-disks-and-native-nvme-driver-68663/ |url-status=live }}

Windows 8.1 also supports the TRIM command for PCI Express SSDs based on NVMe (Windows 7 supported TRIM only for AHCI/SATA) drives and only the ones which were connected internally via the M.2 or SATA/IDE connectors. Windows 8.1 supports the SCSI unmap command which is a full analog of the SATA TRIM command for devices that use the SCSI driver stack. If external SSD drives as well as the device firmware in the bridge chip both support TRIM, Windows 8.1 can perform a TRIM operation on these external SATA and NVMe SSDs that connect via USB as long as they use the USB Attached SCSI Protocol (UASP).

Windows 8.1 also introduces a manual TRIM function via Microsoft Drive Optimizer which can perform an on-demand user-requested TRIM operation on internal and external SSDs. Windows 7 only had automatic TRIM for internal SATA SSDs built into system operations such as Delete, Format, Diskpart etc.

However, Windows 8.1 built-in NVMe driver does not support NVMe passthrough protocol. Support for NVMe passthrough protocol was added in Windows 10.{{Cite web |title=NVMe_Support – smartmontools |url=https://www.smartmontools.org/wiki/NVMe_Support }}

• Windows Server 2012

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{{Reflist|30em}}

• [https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/archive/blogs/b8/ Building Windows 8 Blog]

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Category:Windows 8

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