Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 is the eighth major version of the Microsoft Windows operating system. It was released to manufacturing on August 1, 2013, and became generally available on October 18, 2013. Windows 8.1 is a free upgrade for users of Windows 8 and Windows RT.

What's New in Windows 8.1?

Windows 8.1 includes a number of new features and improvements over Windows 8. Some of the most notable changes include:

• The return of the Start button. The Start button was removed in Windows 8, but it was brought back in Windows 8.1. The Start button provides a quick and easy way to access the Start menu, which contains a list of all your installed programs and apps.
• A new Start screen. The Start screen has been redesigned in Windows 8.1. It now features a more customizable layout, and you can now choose to display more or less information on the Start screen.
• A new Taskbar. The Taskbar has been redesigned in Windows 8.1. It now features a more streamlined design, and you can now choose to hide or show the Taskbar.
• New apps. Windows 8.1 includes a number of new apps, including the Bing Health & Fitness app, the Xbox Music app, and the Xbox Video app.
• Improved performance. Windows 8.1 has been optimized for performance, and it is now faster and more responsive than Windows 8.

Why Learn Windows 8.1?

There are a number of reasons why you might want to learn Windows 8.1. Some of the benefits of learning Windows 8.1 include:

• Increased productivity. Windows 8.1 is a powerful and efficient operating system that can help you to be more productive. The new Start button and Start screen make it easy to find and launch the programs and apps you need, and the new Taskbar provides a quick and easy way to switch between tasks.
• Improved security. Windows 8.1 includes a number of new security features that can help to protect your computer from malware and other threats. These features include improved antivirus protection, a new firewall, and a new anti-phishing filter.
• Enhanced accessibility. Windows 8.1 includes a number of new accessibility features that can make it easier for people with disabilities to use the operating system. These features include a new magnifier, a new narrator, and a new high-contrast mode.

How to Learn Windows 8.1

There are a number of ways to learn Windows 8.1. Some of the most popular methods include:

• Online courses. There are a number of online courses that can teach you the basics of Windows 8.1. These courses are typically self-paced, and they can be a great way to learn at your own pace.
• Books. There are a number of books that can teach you the basics of Windows 8.1. These books are typically more comprehensive than online courses, and they can be a good option for people who want to learn more about the operating system in depth.
• Hands-on experience. The best way to learn Windows 8.1 is to use it on a daily basis. You can learn a lot by simply exploring the operating system and trying out different features.

Careers in Windows 8.1

There are a number of careers that require knowledge of Windows 8.1. Some of these careers include:

• IT support technician. IT support technicians provide technical support to users of Windows 8.1. They may help users to troubleshoot problems, install software, and configure hardware.
• System administrator. System administrators manage Windows 8.1 networks and servers. They may install, configure, and maintain Windows 8.1 systems, and they may also provide technical support to users.
• Software developer. Software developers create software applications that run on Windows 8.1. They may use Windows 8.1 APIs to develop applications that can access the operating system's features and functionality.

Conclusion

Windows 8.1 is a powerful and efficient operating system that can help you to be more productive, secure, and accessible. There are a number of ways to learn Windows 8.1, and there are a number of careers that require knowledge of the operating system. If you are interested in learning more about Windows 8.1, I encourage you to explore the resources that are available online and to try out the operating system for yourself.