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Windows 8: What 8.1 Update 1 means to you

By Michael Straw

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Microsoft has released it’s Windows 8.1 Update 1 to users, and is bringing a number of changes to the year-and-a-half old operating system. That being said, there are a number of users out there who have no idea what the update means to them, and what exactly Microsoft is doing to improve the performance of Windows 8.1 on PC.

So, for the benefit of those who like having all of their information in one handy place, we have put together a rundown of all the major changes with the new Windows 8.1 Update 1 that you should know about.

  • It’s mandatory with Windows 8.1: If you already have the first build of Windows 8.1, you have 30 days to upgrade to the new update before you stop receiving security protection from Microsoft.
  • Boot to Desktop is back: If you are one of the people who hated booting to the Metro UI screen every time the computer started, then be happy that you can now choose to boot straight to your desktop.
  • Easier-to-find Power Button: No longer do you have to find the charms, click on settings and then click the power button to shut off the PC. Now, the power button is located in the upper right-hand corner of the Metro. The search button is also added to that portion of the screen.
  • It can run on more PCs: The minimum requirements for the operating system have been lowered to 1GB of RAM and 16GB of hard drive storage space. Of course, your PC won’t likely be able to handle other things with that little amount of RAM, but it can run Windows 8.1
  • Still no start menu: If you still have Windows 7, and the start menu available is key to you, then you may want to hold off for now on upgrading. Though the start menu is expected to return at some point, it’s not included in this update.
  • Taskbar improvements: Users will now be able to add both desktop programs and Windows Store apps to the taskbar for easy access.