Like it or not, Windows 8/8.1 is here to stay until Windows 10 hits the market next year, so we might as well get used to it unless we’re willing to switch to Linux, a Chromebook or a Mac
When Microsoft set about designing the look and feel of Windows 8, they wanted to make it a radical departure from previous version of Windows. And they sure did a great job at it! In fact, many experienced Windows users feel completely lost the first time they boot up Windows 8.
In addition to doing lots of things differently than previous versions did them, Windows 8 also includes a ton of new features, settings and menus that never existed before. And to make matters even worse, there is no user manual in the box, which means you’re going to have to learn all about Windows 8’s mysterious pieces and parts all on your own.
To help in that regard, Dell Computers has teamed up with the folks who produce the excellent “…for Dummies” line of computer how-to books to offer anyone and everyone a free ebook copy of “Windows 8 for Dummies”. I have a copy myself, and I highly recommend it.
Very little in life is truly free however, and that includes this excellent ebook. Before being allowed to download it you’ll be required to join Dell’s mailing list. I don’t see that as a big deal (I was already voluntarily on their mailing list before this offer came along), but you might. (A word to the wise: Be creative when filling out the form and you can avoid giving them too much of your personal information.)