Among many reasons to fret over Windows 8.1, we have brought this list in the light for you to highlight some of the features offered by this OS that you can try today. So, cut short on your struggle, there’s a lot good in this upgrade.
Best Ways to Use Windows 8.1 PC
Here’s a list of 8 must-know tips and tricks to definitely attend if you are using Windows 8.1. Apart from the old Start button, creating lock screen slideshow,, and 3D printing, what does Windows 8.1 OS really have in its store to offer you the treats? Let’s find out.
1. See Options from the Start Button
Similar to what worked on Windows 7, the Start button returned with Windows 8.1 which you can utilize into viewing several options under one click. You have to left-click on the button from the bottom left side of the screen and you will be then redirected to the Start Screen. When you right-click on the button, it shows you the options for actions like Run, Search, Desktop, Shut Down, and many other options.
2. Handle Privacy Settings
Windows 8.1 allows you to customize privacy settings. Owning the Windows 8.1, you are offered the options to select what devices and data can be used by apps that are found in the Windows Store.
Besides, you have the freedom to block or allow apps from accessing your personal information and you are also allowed to turn your advertising ID off to keep the advertisers from using and displaying personalized ads out of your personal information. If you want to customize these settings then go to Change PC settings and navigate to Privacy to set the options.
3. Update Drivers
Updating drivers timely is essential for optimum utilization of Windows’ operating capabilities. In Windows 8.1, you can apply two methods to update a driver – one is to use a device manager and another is to go to the official website of your driver to get its latest update. However, if you prefer doing as little work as possible, you can always pick the best driver updater to update the drivers automatically without the need for any kind of human intervention.
4. Enjoy Automatic App Updates
This one is definitely a must if you are a Windows 8.1 user. In Windows 8.1, your apps can be automatically installed by default without your consent. Of course, you can stop this if you do not wish this to happen behind your knowledge.
To do so, you have to open the Windows Store and access the Settings Charm menu. The Charm must be activated in Windows Store once otherwise the menus that are required will not be displayed by it.
In the Settings Charm menu, you have to select Settings and go to the App Updates. Then you can enable or disable the option to automatically update apps.
5. Stop Apps from Running in The Background
In Windows 8.1, when you will drag any Start Screen app down to the bottom of the screen, this action will make the app disappear unlike what happens in Windows 8.
You will end up discovering that it will still be running in the background. In order to close the app, you have to drag the app down to the bottom of the screen and not let it go but hold on to it. Then wait until the app card flips for that is when the apps will shut off.
6. Customize Start Screen Background
While we discuss the must-try tips and tricks in Windows 8.1, the freedom it gives to you to customize your start screen is worth mentioning. All you have to do is simply swipe the Settings Charm menu and then tap on Settings.
Next, you have to click on Personalize in order to change the colors of the background as well as the accent.
7. You can log in directly to Desktop.
You are redirected to the Start screen as you start your computer, by default. Well, you can actually start your computer and jump straight to the Desktop instead. In Windows 8.1, it is possible and to make it happen you have to right-click on the desktop toolbar and then Properties. Next, you have to go to the Navigation tab where you have to enable the box “When I sign in or close all applications on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start” Under the Start Screen options.
8. Use Smart Files Feature
Windows 8.1 introduced this new feature called Smart Files that allows users to view their SkyDrive files and they don’t even need to download everything on the computer. So, while browsing through your SkyDrive folder in File Explorer, you’ll find a column called Availability.
You will see that these files are listed as Online-only by default. It means that you can view these files without transferring them in your system’s hard drive as long as you are connected to the Internet.
If you are looking for a SkyDrive file/folder offline, you just have to right-click on it and then select the Make available offline option.
9. Set Quiet Hours
In Windows 8.1, you are offered an option to either turn off the notifications or set a particular period of time for when the notifications can appear unlike Windows 8 where you’d only find the notification pop-ups integration.
To do that, you can go to the Change PC settings and then click on Search and Apps. Now, select the Notifications, and then configure the concerned options.
Make the Most of Your Windows 8.1 PC
Here you were walking across some of the best reasons to use Windows 8.1. Who does not like the top-notch customization capabilities and those beautiful background tiles? What is your favorite go-to action to try on Windows 8.1? Let us know by counting everything in the comment section.