If you have a computer or tablet that runs Windows 8, you really should upgrade to Windows 8.1. If you’re starting out fresh, moving from Windows XP or Windows 7 (or an earlier version), be forewarned that Windows 8.1 is nothing like the Windows of yore. Whether you have a touch screen or use the traditional keyboard and mouse, you'll want to find your way from the Metro Start screen to the desktop and back, uncovering the new Windows 8.1 features you’ll want to start using right away. Along the way, you can customize Windows 8.1 to work in a way that makes sense to you.
