Tech Talk: Windows 8.1 - Desktop

Windows 8.1 introduced the Desktop as a way to add familiarity of the previous operating systems as well as to run legacy programs that could not be launched in apps view. The Desktop can be accessed through the Start Screen or the Apps View. Alternatively, it can be booted straight into the Desktop.

First look at the Desktop will show:

• Taskbar - the taskbar will contain the start button, pinned icons for quick launches, the system tray and the display touch keyboard (for touch screen/tablets users)
• Background - can be personalised to the users preference and application icons and shortcuts

Shortcuts can be pinned to the taskbar from the Start Screen and Apps View, which can also be added vice versa. The desktop arrangements can be arranged just like any predecessor formats with options to sort, view and add shortcuts.

Jump list

Jump lists can be accessed from the taskbar which will show miniature screens of the program opened and gives the option to easily "jump" from one application to the other with ease. In the taskbar properties, you can add privacy to clear the selection so the content does not show on the jump list.

Snap!

The Snap feature can be utilised to view programs side-by-side. It can be done by dragging the program to one end of the screen on the left or the right. To put it into full screen, you can just drag the window up to the top of the screen.

Some handy short-cuts to know:

• Windows key + M: minimises all open windows
• Windows key + D: opens all the windows and returns back to the last used window
• Windows key + E: opens up Windows Explorer