How to optimize Windows 8.1 for traditional computers

Although Windows 8.1 is an upgrade with many improvements of Microsoft, but basically, the interface of the operating system is still optimized for touch screen devices. This makes traditional PC users (desktops, laptop monitors .) feel somewhat uncomfortable. However, the following methods will help you overcome these discomforts.

Remove or replace the Start button

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Microsoft has put the Start button back on Windows 8.1, but it's not the Start button that we've seen before. Instead, it is just one more way to access the new Start Screen screen which is not suitable for traditional PC users. Therefore, the solution given is that you can remove it with the Start8 application .

Boot into the desktop

A welcome feature on Windows 8.1 is that Microsoft has provided the option to enable direct booting into the traditional desktop interface. However, this feature is not enabled, but it takes a bit of effort to activate. Right-click on the toolbar and select Properties, access the Navigation tab, then select 'Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in'.

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Disable some quick access

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In the Navigation tab, you will also see many other useful options for traditional PC users. The most important of which are the options to disable some quick access such as displaying the Charm Bar when hovering over the top right corner of the screen ( 'When I point to the upper-right corner, show the charms ' ); and switch between recently opened applications when clicking on the top left corner of the screen (' When I click the upper-left corner, switch between my recent apps' ).

You should uncheck these boxes because they are quite annoying, especially when you are playing a game or using an application in full screen mode. Also, when you need, you can call these functions with shortcuts ( Windows + Tab and Windows + C ) or by placing the cursor at the bottom left / right corner and then hovering the mouse upwards.

Use desktop wallpaper for Start Screen

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Previously on Windows 8 , when switching from the desktop interface to the Start Screen interface, we were like stepping into another world. There is almost no connection between these two interfaces because they are so different.

Microsoft has overcome a bit of this drawback by allowing shared desktop backgrounds with Start Screen wallpapers. You can find this option in the Navigation tab. The Tile in the Start Screen feels like they're "floating" on your familiar desktop. Although this solution does not help much, at least it does not make you " too upset " to access the Start Screen.

Prefer to display Desktop application in Start Screen

Another nice option in the Navigation tab is that you can prioritize to display the desktop application in Start Screen.

First select the box ' Show the Apps view automatically when I go to Start' in the Navigation tab. This option helps you no longer see the Tiles appear when you access the Start Screen and instead you see the list of applications (Apps view) you install on your computer.

Also in the Navigation tab, select 'List desktop apps first in the Apps view when it's sorted by category' (preferably display desktop apps in Apps view when sorting applications by category). At this point, the Start Screen will prioritize displaying the desktop application first, making it easier for you to find the application you need.

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In addition, you can also choose to prioritize the most frequently used applications. If the frequency of using your Desktop application is higher than the Modern UI application, Windows will remember and prioritize these applications.

Change application options to open files

By default, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 both "apply" to open music, video, PDF files . with Modern full screen applications. Therefore, when you double-click music and video files . in the desktop environment, you will get rid of Modern UI's full-screen interface making it difficult to observe other open applications. towels - which are annoying for people who use traditional PCs.

To fix it, you just need to re-apply the application to open these files by right-clicking on the file, selecting "Open With" , selecting "Choose default program .". More thoroughly, you search for the keyword "Default Programs" then open this tool, select "Set your default programs" to set the default application to your liking.

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Shortcuts

One of the "weapons" that gives you quick access to the operating system's functions is the shortcut. Using effective shortcuts will help you work faster, look more "pro" . Previously we used to synthesize essential shortcuts for Windows 8 users and these shortcuts are obviously very useful for those who use this operating system on a traditional PC.

Also, on Windows 8.1, Microsoft has added a feature that allows you to search right from the Desktop screen using the Win + S key combination.