Windows 8 has been described by Microsoft as its 'boldest' Windows release ever. Beginning Windows 8 takes you through the new features and helps you get more out of the familiar to reveal the possibilities for this amazing new operating system.

You will learn, with non-technical language used throughout, how to get up and running in the new Windows interface, minimize downtime, maximize productivity, and harness the features you never knew existed to take control of your computer and enjoy the peace of mind and excitement that comes with it.

From tips and tweaks to easy-to-follow guides and detailed descriptions, this book takes you inside Windows 8 to discover the true power and flexibility that lies within, and guides you at your own pace through getting the very best from it.

What you'll learn

About the ins and outs of the Windows 8 interface and its new features

How to install and configure Windows 8 to give trouble-free performance 

How to personalize your Windows experience

How to use your computer to connect to devices and services in the home, at work, and on the move

How to maximize your productivity with Windows 8

How to secure and configure Windows 8 to guarantee a safe and secure experience

Who this book is for
Beginning Windows 8 is for people new to Windows or who just want to get up to speed with Windows 8. This book also can help people who already know how to perform routine tasks learn how to get more out of Windows, their computer and their time. Whether you want to get up and running with Windows 8, or want to go to the next level and  learn useful ways to minimize problems, maximize performance, and optimize your overall Windows expereince, this book is for you.

Table of Contents

Introducing Windows 8

Finding Your Way Around Windows 8

Getting Online and Connecting to Networks

Sharing with Family and Friends

Organizing and Searching Your Computer

Printing and Managing Printers

Having Fun with Games, Photos, Music, and Video

Maximizing Your Productivity

Personalizing Your Windows Experience

Making Windows 8 More Accessible and Easier to Use

Keeping Yourself, Your Files, and Your Computer Safe

Maintaining and Backing Up Your Computer and Files

Advanced Configuration and Customization

Getting Started with Virtualization

Installing Windows 8 on Your Computer

Appendix A. Windows 8 Touch Gestures

Appendix B. Windows 8 Shortcut Keys

Appendix C. Advanced Query Syntax for Search

Appendix D. Upgrading Your Computer

About the Author
Mike Halsey is an established Windows author and prolific tech blogger.  His articles regularly feature in Microsoft's IT Pro newsletters and his tutorial and how-to videos feature on the official Microsoft support website.  An expert with many years' experience in helping home, small business and enterprise users get the very best out of their computers, Mike Halsey is also a teacher of adult literacy and numeracy basic skills.  He uses this experience to make the language in his books and videos accessible to everybody.  Mike lives in an eco-home Yorkshire (UK) with his rescue border collie Jed.