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Main Area and Open Discussion => General Software Discussion => Topic started by: tomos on November 15, 2012, 02:41 PM
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Have you any tips for windows 8? (I'll try adding your tips to first post, with the post number)
EDIT/ tips/tweaks here are untested unless otherwise stated !
IMPORTANT NOTE:/ many of these tips may not apply to Windows 8.1 :-(
Desktop bias (see below for the other half):
Winkey+x [anyone got a link for a good cheat sheet that's freely available?]
Lockergnome has a pretty good cheat sheet (http://www.lockergnome.com/windows/2012/11/05/windows-8-shortcuts/) that covers both new keyboard shortcuts and those that have been around for a while. (allen #3)
Another good Win 8 cheatsheet can be found here (http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/windows-8-keyboard-shortcuts) [Requires 'Liking' or registration] (40hz #4)
Disable Lock Screen
Take screenshots: Win+PrtScr (image now saved in png format)
Prevent [Media] Files Opening in Metro:
http://www.howtogeek.com/107182/get-to-know-the-new-shortcut-keys-in-windows-8/
Change the default language of your OS. Changing to English worked perfectly for me ♥ (seems to be available for all versions of Win8)
Win+W to search settings > search for 'Language'; then follow the MS instructions here:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2607607 or here (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/language#1TC=t1)
NOTE: this has to be redone after installing 8.1
Backup:
create an image - Windows 8.1
>How to Create a System Image with Windows 8.1 File History (http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm)<
A previous tip showed how to create a system image in Windows 8. In Windows 8.1, Microsoft changed the procedure and made it even harder to find. In this tip (http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm), I will give the new way to make a system image
http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm-gizmo
-Curt
create an image - Windows 8
Win+W to search settings > search for 'Windows 7..." - open "Windows 7 File Recovery" -a weird hangover name, in spite of it simply being called "Backup or Restore" in Win7.
~ Restore seems a bit buggy here - it cant find my image/backup on an external usb hd. But if I use the restore disk (dont forget to create it!) I can find the backup okay. Helped by Windows 8 forums (http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/9064-system-image-recovery-restore-image-computer-windows-8-a.html) tutorials (NOTE: I just wanted to check that it could find the backup - I didnt need to restore, so I didnt try to).
System Restore - Win+W to search settings for same and you're covered (also available via control panel)
Mount ISO's: Right-click it in Explorer, click Mount and you can view it as a virtual drive, launch the files it contains, or add more if you like. (ewemoa #15)
File associations:
Control Panel [>Programs] >Default Programs >Associate a file type with a specific program (Set Associations)
or
from the Start Screen, type Default Programs and proceed as above in Control Panel (thanks 4wd)
Boot to desktop: NOTE: 8.1 seems to be more intelligent and goes directly to desktop on a PC/laptop - not sure if this can now be adjusted within Windows UI, I presume so...
I followed these instructions to boot directly to desktop and it works:
http://winaero.com/blog/how-to-skip-start-screen-natively-without-using-any-third-party-tool/ (phitsc #27) [worked for me too with OEM windows - see post 32 (https://www.donationcoder.com/forum/index.php?topic=32883.msg308105#msg308105)]
or
Go to the start screen and type in "schedule" to search for Schedule Task in Settings. Click on Task Scheduler Library to the left, and select Create Task. Name your task something like "Boot to desktop." Now select the Triggers tab, choose New, and use the drop-down box to select starting the task "At log on." Click OK and go to the Actions tab, choose New, and enter "explorer" for the Program/Script value. Press OK, save the task, and restart to test it out!
via https://www.pcworld.com/article/2012885/20-must-know-windows-8-tips-and-tricks.html?page=4 (ewemoa #13)
or
Skip Metro Suite [UNTESTED] This one can also remove the 'hot corners' that popup the Switcher/Charmsbar/etc - AFAICT these are completely removed so long as the app runs. http://winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.103 (Tom #8)
Find the Windows serial-number - especially helpful for an OEM copy of Windows 8 (number is hidden) and for implementing first option under 'Boot to Desktop' above:
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/threads/30363-Windows-8-WDP-Product-Key-Viewer (Tom #32 (https://www.donationcoder.com/forum/index.php?topic=32883.msg308105#msg308105))
How to disable the edge panels (Charms Bar and Switcher) (http://winaero.com/blog/how-to-disable-the-edge-panels-charms-bar-and-switcher-in-windows-8/#more-12) - this is a registry tweak that disables the edge panels (Charms Bar and Switcher) - but still allows them to be called via hotkey. (also from winaero.com)
Classic Shell (http://classicshell.sourceforge.net/) [restores the start button and other removed functionality] (via Ath from here (https://www.donationcoder.com/forum/index.php?topic=32942.msg307469#msg307469))
Various Tweak Apps from winaero.com (http://winaero.com/download.php?list.2) who seem in general to have a good reputation.
The Best Articles for Using and Customizing Windows 8 (http://www.howtogeek.com/122553/the-best-articles-for-using-and-customizing-windows-8/#comment-190751) (How-to Geek)
Shrink/expand partitions within Windows 8.
http://www.forumswindows8.com/hardware-devices/resize-windows-8-partition-120.htm
I shrunk my OS partition (C) using Disk Management. It initially refused to shrink much - but when system restore was turned off, & the old restore points deleted, it then offered to go down to 20GB (FWIW, I gave it 100GB). The system restore points are those files you can see fixed in the middle of the partition when defragging. More info here:
http://superuser.com/questions/88131/how-to-shrink-windows-7-boot-partition-with-unmovable-files (tomos #23)
Another possible option - PartedMagic (gParted)
http://partedmagic.com/doku.php?id=start (that's being worked on full-time now, so donations appreciated there)
How to Delete Your Metro Application's Usage History in Windows 8 (http://www.howtogeek.com/111301/how-to-delete-your-metro-applications-usage-history-in-windows-8/) [howtogeek.com] (erikts #24)
General Documentation/Articles
Windows 8 for Dummies Pocket Edition - Dell is offering a free (registration required but they don't seem to be too fussy about what email you enter on the form) special edition of same - which actually looks quite useful. Get it here (http://marketing.dell.com/windows-8-ebook). (40hz #4)
Introducing Windows 8: An Overview for IT Professionals (Final Edition) (Free ebook)
http://blogs.msdn.com/b/microsoft_press/archive/2012/11/13/free-ebook-introducing-windows-8-an-overview-for-it-professionals-final-edition.aspx (thanks fenixproductions)
Windows 8 forums (http://www.eightforums.com/windows-8-news/) (thank Miles)
Windows 8 productivity: Who moved my cheese? Oh, there it is (http://www.hanselman.com/blog/Windows8ProductivityWhoMovedMyCheeseOhThereItIs.aspx) (Scott Hanselman - hanselman.com)
The Best Articles for Using and Customizing Windows 8 (http://www.howtogeek.com/122553/the-best-articles-for-using-and-customizing-windows-8/#comment-190751) (How-to Geek)
The 'home screen' / the Tiled interface:
[You are only allowed to] install trusted (that is, digitally signed) apps from the Windows store.
To work around this:
Launch GPEdit.msc (...), browse to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment, double-click 'Allow all trusted apps to install' and select Enabled > OK.
via http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/50-windows-8-tips-tricks-and-secrets-1028220/3#articleContent (ewemoa #14)
Shortcuts: http://www.howtogeek.com/107182/get-to-know-the-new-shortcut-keys-in-windows-8/
Zoom tile display: hold down the Ctrl button, and use your mouse wheel to zoom in and out. (ewemoa #12)
Thanks! Any moar ? :)
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My tip would be W8 for SP1. :)
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My tip would be W8 for SP1. :)-MilesAhead
after a couple of hours use, I already have some ideas for that. Along the lines of church and state.
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Can I ask people though to try and keep this thread fairly on-topic? I ask that more cause it's a popular topic to thrash out at the moment - there's lots of other win8 threads out there if you want to debate aspects of the OS.
thanks :Thmbsup:
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Lockergnome has a pretty good cheat sheet (http://www.lockergnome.com/windows/2012/11/05/windows-8-shortcuts/) that covers both new keyboard shortcuts and those that have been around for a while.
My personal favorite new one is win+. and win+shift+. (That's win period). Some of the new "modern" apps are pretty cool when pinned to the side of your desktop. I most often use it for Music, mail or twitter depending on what I'm doing.
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Can I ask people though to try and keep this thread fairly on-topic? I ask that more cause it's a popular topic to thrash out at the moment - there's lots of other win8 threads out there if you want to debate aspects of the OS.
thanks :Thmbsup
-tomos
Yes please. :Thmbsup:
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On topic:
Another good Win 8 cheatsheet can be found here (http://www.makeuseof.com/pages/windows-8-keyboard-shortcuts).
And Microsoft's official 156-page overview for IT professionals book is available for download here (http://blogs.technet.com/b/uspartner_ts2team/archive/2012/11/01/free-windows-8-book-from-microsoft-press.aspx).
Add Dell is offering a free (registration required but they don't seem to be too fussy about what info you enter on the form ;) ) special edition of Windows 8 for Dummies Pocket Edition which actually looks quite useful. Get it here (http://marketing.dell.com/windows-8-ebook).
:Thmbsup:
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I'm back on Windows 7 today but look forward to trying out some of those shortcuts
My personal favorite new one is win+. and win+shift+. (That's win period).
-allen
snaps active window to left and right
[edit] snaps desktop window to left/right of the 'home screen'. I'm only using the desktop so far myself so havent really used that. As in windows 7, Win+left/right-arrow will snap window to left/right half of the screen.[/edit]
@40, got the Windows 8 for Dummies book no problem :up:
Note: you can download directly on filling the form (you dont need to wait for an email...)
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Have you any tips for windows 8? (I'll try adding your tips to first post, or a link at least)
Change the default language of your OS - worked perfectly for me :-* (seems to be available for all versions of Win8)
Winkey+Q; click on 'Settings' and search for 'Language'; then follow the MS instructions here:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2607607 or here (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/language#1TC=t1)
-tomos
Sorry, no tips from me as I'm still waiting for my license to arrive, but just wanted to thank you for verifying the language change functionality :up: Nice change from Windows 7 where the language changing didn't seem to be available for all versions.
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My tip would be W8 for SP1. :)-MilesAhead
after a couple of hours use, I already have some ideas for that. Along the lines of church and state.
======
Can I ask people though to try and keep this thread fairly on-topic? I ask that more cause it's a popular topic to thrash out at the moment - there's lots of other win8 threads out there if you want to debate aspects of the OS.
thanks :Thmbsup:
-tomos
My suggestion is totally serious. I think of all the Windows OS I tried before the first SP, the only one that didn't burn me was Windows 7. I certainly wasted 2 months tuning Vista only to find 99% of the tweaks I made were there in SP1 when it finally came out. Depends how you wish to spend your time; how anxious you are to get the latest greatest; you may need some particular feature; or the device has it on there and there's nothing you can do about it. But the "burn ya'" percentage of pre-SP Windows is very high.
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^ well it's a fair enough tip for those of us who havent already indulged :D
One thing I presume they'll bring in in SP1 is the option to boot to the desktop (I find it ludicrous that the option is not already there).
Till then you could try this Skip Metro Suite [UNTESTED - I'll give it a go myself sometime in the next few days]
http://winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.103
the site was recommended by a user (with a few hundred posts) on Neowin (but no discussion about it)
They have a few interesting tweaks - download page:
http://winaero.com/download.php?list.2
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Shrink/expand partitions[/b] within Windows 8. UNTESTED. Doesnt seem to be documented on MS site.
-tomos
Can't see any reason why that should be a problem - it works fine in Windows 7 and despite the promise of a new FS they haven't yet implemented it so the current release of Win 8 uses the same NTFS system used by Win 7 - can't see why they would alter the NTFS support in Win 8.
Backup is a good idea if you are nervous but I have never had issue with partition resizing in Windows 7.
PS: Almost all of the tools used to modify partitions in live running windows use Microsoft DLLs to provide low level access so MS tools are probably as safe, or safer, than third party tools - just lack a bit of flexibility.
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Windows 8 is too young. It's probably still full of bugs.
It’s a little mad buying immediately a new OS. It’s wise instead waiting for some years before buying it, so in the meantime many bugs will be fixed.
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One thing I presume they'll bring in in SP1 is the option to boot to the desktop (I find it ludicrous that the option is not already there).
I haven't had a look at it, other than screen shots on the web. From people's comments though, it sounds like it should be a hand-held/tablet only OS. I mean they just bailed out of the Vista fiasco with a big W7 success so they immediately scuttle it?
Probably some real dick came out on top of the corporate infighting.. rather than some brilliant "design decision" is my guess. :)
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Possibly handy?
The Start Screen is full of nice, big, chunky tiles that represent all your apps. The tiles are easy to see in small groups, but what if you have hundreds of apps installed? Most will be hidden from view, unless you want to do a lot of scrolling. Enter the new semantic zoom feature. If you’re using a touch display, squeeze the Start screen with two fingers to receive a bird’s eye view of your entire screen contents. And the feature is also available to mouse and keyboard users: Simply hold down the Ctrl button, and use your mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
Hmm, I wonder if there's a way to do this with just the keyboard...
via https://www.pcworld.com/article/2012885/20-must-know-windows-8-tips-and-tricks.html (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2012885/20-must-know-windows-8-tips-and-tricks.html)
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One thing I presume they'll bring in in SP1 is the option to boot to the desktop (I find it ludicrous that the option is not already there).
-tomos
Along similar lines:
One of biggest complaints about Windows 8 is that it boots straight to the Start screen—an annoyance for many committed desktop users. ... you can actually boot straight to the desktop without installing anything extra.
Go to the start screen and type in "schedule" to search for Schedule Task in Settings. Click on Task Scheduler Library to the left, and select Create Task. Name your task something like "Boot to desktop." Now select the Triggers tab, choose New, and use the drop-down box to select starting the task "At log on." Click OK and go to the Actions tab, choose New, and enter "explorer" for the Program/Script value.
Press OK, save the task, and restart to test it out!
via https://www.pcworld.com/article/2012885/20-must-know-windows-8-tips-and-tricks.html?page=4 (https://www.pcworld.com/article/2012885/20-must-know-windows-8-tips-and-tricks.html?page=4)
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Not sure for what contexts the following applies, but FWIW:
... only allow you to install trusted (that is, digitally signed) apps from the Windows store.
To work around it:
Launch GPEdit.msc (...), browse to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Package Deployment, double-click 'Allow all trusted apps to install' and select Enabled > OK.
via http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/50-windows-8-tips-tricks-and-secrets-1028220/3#articleContent (http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/50-windows-8-tips-tricks-and-secrets-1028220/3#articleContent)
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Looks like mounting ISOs is now built-in:
Right-click it in Explorer, click Mount and you can view it as a virtual drive, launch the files it contains, or add more if you like.
via http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/50-windows-8-tips-tricks-and-secrets-1028220/6#articleContent (http://www.techradar.com/news/software/operating-systems/50-windows-8-tips-tricks-and-secrets-1028220/6#articleContent)
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Thanks ewemoa,
I've added those and some new ones* to the first post. (I've roughly grouped by desktop/home-page)
That's one of those posts that would benefit from a wikistyle option.
*Disable Lock Screen / Take screenshots / Prevent [Media] Files Opening in Metro
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Thanks for the summarizing and new tips :up:
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I signed up for the forum linked below when it first opened. But I don't participate often as I don't intend to get W8. If their Vista and Windows Seven forums are any indication, this forum should be a wealth of Tutorials, lists of free W8 software, W8 news, and of course, categorized sob-forums to post various problems.
Windows 8 Forum (http://www.eightforums.com)
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One "tip" I'd like to suggest even though it's obvious: Learn before you churn.
Get some background - any background - first.
Watch some videos or web presentations, read a hands-on article or beginner booklet (or book), ask a knowledgeable friend to show you around, grab a cheat sheet and really look at it...whatever works best for your learning style.
I see this all the time with technology. People wade in on something completely new (or in this case different) with zero clue as to how it works and start bashing around. That's a guaranteed formula for initial failure and frustration with something like Windows 8.
From my own experience, Windows 8 has a very different "feel" from what we're currently using. Not really any worse or better in most cases - but just different enough that a lot of old work habits and expectations go right out the window with version 7. If you have some idea as to what to expect, it's not nearly as bad as if you just wade in and let it ambush you.
Grab a copy of the for Dummies booklet mentioned above and give it a go through first. I've had a few acquaintances take that suggestion and some (surprise!) actually ended up sort of liking Windows 8 after a short while. While none said they preferred it at this stage, all agreed (with varying degrees of "enthusiasm") that they were confident they "could get used it" if they had to.
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^ I added a documantation section to post #1
I signed up for the forum linked below when it first opened. But I don't participate often as I don't intend to get W8. If their Vista and Windows Seven forums are any indication, this forum should be a wealth of Tutorials, lists of free W8 software, W8 news, and of course, categorized sob-forums to post various problems.
Windows 8 Forum (http://www.eightforums.com)
-MilesAhead
:Thmbsup:
I was hoping that existed -
I had found another forum - forumswindows8.com - which didnt really impress.
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I was hoping that existed -
I had found another forum - forumswindows8.com - which didnt really impress.
-tomos
Not that MS MVPs are the be all and end all, but those forums have quite a few. They're sticklers about rules/licenses afa Windows is concerned. For that reason if you get a link to Windows OS ISOs you can be confident they're legit. Very good tutorials also.
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Backup / create an image:
Win+W to search settings - search for 'Windows 7..." - open "Windows 7 File Recovery" -a weird hangover name, in spite of it simply being called "Backup or Restore" in Win7.
~ Restore seems a bit buggy here - it cant find my image/backup on an external usb hd. But if I use the restore disk (dont forget to create it!) I can find the backup okay. Helped by Windows 8 forums (http://www.eightforums.com/windows-8-news/) tutorials (NOTE: I just wanted to check that it could find the backup - I didnt need to restore, so I didnt try to).
System Restore - Win+W to search settings for same and you're covered (also available via control panel)
-tomos
added some backup quirks ...
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for those who buy laptops with one big partition for everything:
(probably valid for most other win OS's as well)
Shrink/expand partitions within Windows 8.
...
I shrunk my OS partition (C) using Disk Management - it refused to shrink much but when system restore was turned off, & old restore points deleted, it then offered to go down to 20GB (FWIW, I gave it 100GB). System restore are those fixed files you can see in the middle of the partition when defragging. More info here:
http://superuser.com/questions/88131/how-to-shrink-windows-7-boot-partition-with-unmovable-files
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How to Delete Your Metro Application’s Usage History in Windows 8 (http://www.howtogeek.com/111301/how-to-delete-your-metro-applications-usage-history-in-windows-8/) [howtogeek.com]
Windows 8 includes an all new Task Manager, which brings a whole bunch of new features. One of my favorites is the App history tab, which allows geeks like us to monitor our applications resource usage. Sometimes you may wish to reset the counters though, so here’s how.
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thanks erikts -
I presume that's valid for all software used on 8 so I struck a line through Metro :-)
Tweaks / etc:
...
How to Delete Your Metro Application's Usage History in Windows 8 [howtogeek.com] (erikts #24)
-tomos
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Little spam for ya…
Free ebook: Introducing Windows 8: An Overview for IT Professionals (Final Edition)
http://blogs.msdn.com/b/microsoft_press/archive/2012/11/13/free-ebook-introducing-windows-8-an-overview-for-it-professionals-final-edition.aspx
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I followed these instructions to boot directly to desktop and it works:
http://winaero.com/blog/how-to-skip-start-screen-natively-without-using-any-third-party-tool/
(note that it's not the same as mentioned in comment #8, although also from winaero)
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^ sounds good :up:
I added it to first post
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I followed these instructions to boot directly to desktop and it works:
http://winaero.com/blog/how-to-skip-start-screen-natively-without-using-any-third-party-tool/
(note that it's not the same as mentioned in comment #8, although also from winaero)
-phitsc
all the options I've seen for boot-to-desktop are quite, eh, 'heavy' for want of a better term.
This one (from phitsc) where you have to re-activate the OS
The one that uses sheduler to change the setting on each reboot,
and then they have an app that does this - it has to start with windows (which also disables the popup edge panels on the desktop)
Seems MS have made it quite difficult to change - but it is good to know when they work :up:
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Added to "Tweaks" in post #1
How to disable the edge panels (Charms Bar and Switcher) (http://winaero.com/blog/how-to-disable-the-edge-panels-charms-bar-and-switcher-in-windows-8/#more-12) - this is a registry tweak that disables the edge panels (Charms Bar and Switcher) - but still allows them to be called via hotkey. (also from winaero.com)
[...]
Various Tweak Apps from winaero.com (http://winaero.com/download.php?list.2) who seem in general to have a good reputation.
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This one (from phitsc) where you have to re-activate the OS
-tomos
It was really easy though. Download. Copy/Paste product key into supplied text file. double-click. Done. The script does everything, including the re-activation.
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This one (from phitsc) where you have to re-activate the OS
-tomos
It was really easy though. Download. Copy/Paste product key into supplied text file. double-click. Done. The script does everything, including the re-activation.
-phitsc
this one took a bit more work for me because I have a pre-installed (OEM) Windows 8. The serial number is no longer accessible anywhere. (It's in the bios, but apparently even there it's hidden.)
I came across this little app (*not* a 'tiles' app - the word app is being stolen from us...)
Windows 8 WDP Product Key Viewer´
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/threads/30363-Windows-8-WDP-Product-Key-Viewer
(My Digital Life forums)
it seemed to have a lot of happy users so I tried it and added the key number to the winaero fix.
Rebooted and, yes :up: it went straight to desktop.
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this one took a bit more work for me because I have a pre-installed (OEM) Windows 8. The serial number is no longer accessible anywhere. (It's in the bios, but apparently even there it's hidden.)
I came across this little app (*not* a 'tiles' app - the word app is being stolen from us...)
Windows 8 WDP Product Key Viewer´
http://forums.mydigitallife.info/threads/30363-Windows-8-WDP-Product-Key-Viewer
(My Digital Life forums)-tomos
Cool little app man, thanks for sharing. But I gotta ask where you got the impression the product key was stored in the BIOS? I've never heard anything about that move, and there is nothing in the pkeyui.exe binaries import list that implies that it is accessing the BIOS to decode the key. I appears to be a straight registry query-->decode process.
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But I gotta ask where you got the impression the product key was stored in the BIOS? [...] It appears to be a straight registry query-->decode process.
-Stoic Joker
maybe that's why people couldnt find it in the BIOS :)
It's something that was romoured at least - couldnt tell you where exactly, but I've read it a few places :-\
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Windows 8 is too young. It's probably still full of bugs.
It’s a little mad buying immediately a new OS. It’s wise instead waiting for some years before buying it, so in the meantime many bugs will be fixed.
-Giampy
+1(I presume). This is why I expect to get a Win 7 machine. Timing is everything.
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How to Pin Any File to the Start Screen in Windows 8
http://www.howtogeek.com/129493/how-to-pin-any-file-to-the-start-screen-in-windows-8/ (http://www.howtogeek.com/129493/how-to-pin-any-file-to-the-start-screen-in-windows-8/)
By default Windows 8 only allows you to pin a few file types to the Start Screen. Read on to find out how you can change that by editing the registry.
[ You are not allowed to view attachments ]
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How to Do a Full Shutdown in Windows 8 Without Disabling Hybrid Boot
http://www.howtogeek.com/129021/how-to-do-a-full-shutdown-in-windows-8-without-disabling-hybrid-boot/ (http://www.howtogeek.com/129021/how-to-do-a-full-shutdown-in-windows-8-without-disabling-hybrid-boot/)
Windows 8 comes with a new Hybrid Boot feature, which decreases boot times. But from time to time you may find you need to do a classic, full shutdown. Here’s how to do just that without disabling Hybrid Boot.
[ You are not allowed to view attachments ]
In short: Shutdown using shutdown.exe /s /t 0
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https://windowssecrets.com/langalist-plus/with-windows-8-off-isnt-really-off/
With Windows 8, “off” isn’t really off
Win8′s default shutoff and startup processes are unlike those of any previous Windows version. Completely shutting Win8 down — or doing a truly cold boot — requires a few extra steps!
Windows 8 doesn’t really shut down when you click the shutdown icon (or go to Power via the Charms bar/Settings). Instead, Win8 goes into a sort of ‘deep sleep’ mode, similar to hibernate.
You must hold down the Shift key while clicking the shutdown icon — and continue to hold Shift until the machine fully powers off. Only then was I able to enter the BIOS during system startup.
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I'm using the method described here (http://www.thewindowsclub.com/windows-shut-down-dialog-box) to open the Windows Shutdown dialog from FARR.
Basically, you just have to put a shortcut to a text file called e.g. Shutdown.js with the following line
(new ActiveXObject("Shell.Application")).ShutdownWindows();
somewhere where FARR can find it.
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Thanks to Gizmo for telling about this free ebook from Microsoft on Windows 8:
http://blogs.msdn.com/b/microsoft_press/archive/2012/11/13/free-ebook-introducing-windows-8-an-overview-for-it-professionals-final-edition.aspx
[ You are not allowed to view attachments ] (http://blogs.msdn.com/b/microsoft_press/archive/2012/11/13/free-ebook-introducing-windows-8-an-overview-for-it-professionals-final-edition.aspx)
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I'm using the method described here (http://www.thewindowsclub.com/windows-shut-down-dialog-box) to open the Windows Shutdown dialog from FARR.
Basically, you just have to put a shortcut to a text file called e.g. Shutdown.js with the following line
(new ActiveXObject("Shell.Application")).ShutdownWindows();
somewhere where FARR can find it.
-phitsc
Nice tip :up:
On a side note, it appears to work in Windows 7.
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CTRL + Shutdown does the same job too. Hold CTRL until the lights go off!
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Or you can add an alias (no javascript or batch files required) with the command: c:\windows\system32\shutdown.exe -s -t 0 which will shut the computer down immediately.
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That will make a complete shutdown though, not a "Windows 8 Shutdown".
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That will make a complete shutdown though, not a "Windows 8 Shutdown".-phitsc
Doesn't that require adding "/hybrid"? (On my win7 workstation right now, so can't check shutdown.exe arguments :)).
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Yes, /hybrid will do it. Forgot that one! Thanks f0dder
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Why can't Windows 8 find the Startup Folder?
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2806079
- Win+R
- Type the following text in Run dialog box and click OK: shell:startup
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Why can't Windows 8 find the Startup Folder?
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2806079
- Win+R
- Type the following text in Run dialog box and click OK: shell:startup
-erikts
Can you make that into something like a desktop shortcut?
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Why can't Windows 8 find the Startup Folder?
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2806079
- Win+R
- Type the following text in Run dialog box and click OK: shell:startup
-erikts
Can you make that into something like a desktop shortcut?
-TaoPhoenix
That should be possible. Just remember you can't make shortcuts directly to shell locations. You have to make a shortcut to explorer.exe with the shell folder as an argument. Like this:
explorer.exe shell:startup
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I just got a Laptop with W8 on it. I'm pleasantly surprised. Of course I disabled indexing and put latest Everything Search on it. But out of the box it was much more usable than Vista before the first SP. I really miss the Glass though. But on the Laptop monitor it's tough enough just to read text on some sites(Color Toggle FF AddOn gets me over that hurdle.) I have to wonder how Glass would look. The Control Panel is still accessible. So once there most confusion is eliminated.
It seems to be stable. Although I haven't taxed the Laptop. My days of converting video are over. Too much work. :)
Edit: as for "tips" Brink keeps the Tutorials (http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/) section of W8 Forums loaded with tons of howto stuff. Like how to switch from Microsoft Online login style to local login etc..
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Glass on W8 can be downloaded here (http://glass8.berlios.de)
I'm using it now. Totally clear window borders and taskbar(for those of us who do Desktop mode.)
2 Provisos.. you have to disable secure boot .. and on each boot a dialog comes up asking for a donation. It's a nag screen that's turned off by donating. I'm hot sure how to back off unless there's a control program. I assume running a restore point will do the trick.
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http://windowssecrets.com/top-story/pc-settings-gets-major-makeover-in-win8-1/
‘PC settings’ gets major makeover in Win8.1
By Fred Langa on November 13, 2013 in Top Story:
Microsoft made a host of changes to the commands and options on Windows 8.1′s PC settings page, adding new functions and moving or renaming others.
The result is a better user experience — but one that’s undeniably confusing at first. Here (http://windowssecrets.com/top-story/pc-settings-gets-major-makeover-in-win8-1/)’s a guide to the most important changes.-windowssecrets
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http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/make-your-windows-881-computer-act-new-refresh-feature.htm
Make Your Windows 8/8.1 Computer Act Like New with the Refresh Feature.
Accessing the Refresh feature was described in a previous article, but here I will give some details of how to create a custom Refresh.-gizmo's freeware
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NOTE: This will NOT work for preinstalled/OEM versions!!
This comes from a couple of comments, (by Mike and astro), over on the MakeUseOf (http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/overcome-windows-8-1-upgrade-errors-with-a-legal-iso-download/) website.
Microsoft castrated Win 8.0 Pro users by making them always have to do a 3.5GB download if you ever want to update your reinstalled OS to 8.1 or install on multiple machines - completely ignoring the fact that 80-90% of the planet doesn't have access to seemingly unlimited multi-Mb broadband at a reasonable cost, (f'n idiots) - eg. it would take me ~7 hours to download the update and I don't want to do it more than once.
Anyway, you can do a clean install of Win 8.1 Pro from a downloaded ISO and activate it with your Win 8.0 Pro license key - contrary to what MS would have you believe or want you to do.
- Grab copy of the Win 8.1 Pro ISO using the method in the MakeUseOf link above.
- Create your install media, DVD or flash drive, and proceed with a normal install of the system - which is not connected to a network.
- When you're asked for a key, use the appropriate KMS Client setup key from here (http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/jj612867.aspx) (Microsoft TechNet) - this will allow you to install 8.1 - you will need a valid purchased license key to activate it.
- When the install is finished, open regedit and navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/Software/Microsoft/Windows/CurrentVersion/Setup/OOBE/
Change MediabootInstall and RetailInstall to 0. - Open a CLI as Administrator, (ie. run CMD.exe as Administrator), and enter: slmgr.vbs -ipk [key] where [key] is your duly purchased license key, without the brackets.
- Rearm the activation: slmgr.vbs /rearm
- Restart, connect to a network, and activate your installation.
The above worked for me without a problem when I clean installed my netbook with 8.1.
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^ that sounds good :up:
Note: for anyone with OEM Windows 8, it will not work:
Spock
November 15, 2013
It needs to be a purchased version of 8.0, not one preinstalled with a bought pc or laptop. Most keys from a preinstallation won’t be accepted. I have a bought acer laptop and the key the system shows doesn’t work./quote]
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Note: for anyone with OEM Windows 8, it will not work:-tomos
Thanks, I probably should of made it clearer when I said "valid purchased license key".
As an aside, I haven't played with it much yet but 8.1 definitely feels nippier than 8.0, (eg. Task Manager in <2 seconds as opposed to previous 20 seconds on first open).
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Thanks, I probably should of made it clearer when I said "valid purchased license key".
-4wd
lol, I was aiming that post at people like me -
read your post; read the article; it was only when I got to the comments that I started wondering... and read the comment I quoted in my post.
Guess I should read slower, but life's too short sometimes.
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http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/make-your-windows-881-computer-act-new-refresh-feature.htm
Make Your Windows 8/8.1 Computer Act Like New with the Refresh Feature.
Accessing the Refresh feature was described in a previous article, but here I will give some details of how to create a custom Refresh.-gizmo's freeware
-Curt
As a matter of interest, has anyone got this to work?
If I try it, it always bombs out at 27% with:
The recovery image cannot be written.
Error Code - 0x80070001
Which in the context of creating a recovery image seems to be something to do with symbolic links, of which Win 8.1 has more than a few.
BTW, RecImgManager (http://recimg.com/) for those that don't like the CLI.
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RecImgManager looks interesting. btw are you using it or doing it the old fashioned way?
I searched 8 forums and only got one hit on that error code. It didn't seem helpful.
Brink has a tutorial for doing custom image refreshes:
http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/3610-refresh-windows-8-create-use-custom-recovery-image.html
Not sure if it's helpful in your case though.
Edit: if that custom image program works that could be ideal for me. I take it I could store the image on the source partition?
that would be cool since lugging around externals is weight prohibitive(if that is a word.)
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I just did a backup with RecImgManager. Seems cool. Once I hit the go button I'd say it took about a half hour to complete. I don't have many programs installed yet. Only thing is there seems no provision for fixing a system that won't boot. If things get hosed you have to figure out how to boot windows without erasing the saved image. But maybe somebody has figured that out. :)
So far I like it. Nice and simple. You want to backup or don't ya'? If so press the button. :)
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Hmm, looking in the forum there seems to be a lot of questions where the backup just hangs.
If there's no method to get the restore started from a non-booting system then it seems like the value is limited. Plus I don't know how much faith I'd have in the restore if the backups hang. Usually it's the restore part that's not robust on these things. :)
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I got EaseUS ToDo Backup. I created a partition from a slice of C:. At least I have some backup now. I have to burn the BootCD still.
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RecImgManager looks interesting. btw are you using it or doing it the old fashioned way?-MilesAhead
If you mean by the old fashoined way, the CLI - then both. RecImgManager just stops at 27% with 'Backup Failed', the CLI while also stopping at 27% at least gives me the error code.
http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/3610-refresh-windows-8-create-use-custom-recovery-image.html
Same method as the link Curt gave.
I just did a backup with RecImgManager. Seems cool.-MilesAhead
AFAICT, it's just a GUI under which it does the call to recimg.exe and then just redisplays the reports, (except for error codes), that recimg gives.
Since it works for you, you might as well check out SlimImage (http://www.slimimage.com/) - scheduled, incremental backup. :)
Guess I'll have to stick to Paragon for whole partition images.
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EaseUS ToDo I have had good luck with so far. The Linux BootCD it makes (on v. 5 .. last time I used it) supported both my "fake raid" controller and USB 3.0 card. No tweaking needed. When I burn the CD with v. 6 I'll know how good it is for the Laptop.
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https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.htcheng.winshortcut
"Windows 8 Shortcuts Handbook"
-it seems it also may have to do with Android?
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Since I posted about EaseUS ToDo Backup Free I have installed and used the latest Macrium Free version. It natively supports W8 GPT with secure boot. I had a 32 GB FAT32 USB 3.0 stick. It made a WinPE bootable restore on the stick without erasing my data files. The only part that may be a drawback for some in this process is a download of about 370 MB to get WinPE 4.0.
The other cool thing, I made a backup image with the stick as destination. It automatically created files 4 GB max sequentially numbered. No fuss. I just clicked "make an image that can restore Windows" and it handled all the details. They really smoothed out the process, at least for my Toshiba Laptop. I also took some space from C: and made a data NTFS partition to store images and whatnot. I was very impressed.
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Get the links at Gizmo's: http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/five-useful-places-learn-how-use-windows-81-better.htm
Just when you thought you had Windows 8 figured out, Microsoft went and changed things in Windows 8.1 so you had to learn yet more. Or maybe you are upgrading from an even older version of Windows. Then you have a truck-load of new features to learn. Either way, here are some places to go that will help make the transition to Windows 8.1 easier.
1. 10 new getting started tutorials for Windows 8.1
Get a quick beginning with these tutorials from the Microsoft MSDN site.
2. Articles introducing Windows 8 & 8.1 and their basic concepts
List of numerous articles on Windows 8.1 at 7Tutorials. Very substantial coverage.
3. The Metro hater's guide to Windows 8.1
Windows expert Ed Bott’s tips on what you need to do to make Windows 8.1 as desktop-friendly as possible. All of the features he describes are new or significantly changed in Windows 8.1 compared to Windows 8.
4. The desktop lover's guide to supercharging Windows 8.1
More tips on taming the Metro interface, this time from Woody Leonhard.
5. Windows 8.1 Tips
Collection of Windows 8.1 tips from Paul Thurrott.
And there you have it – some help to get Windows 8.1 working the way you want.-Gizmo~techsupportalert
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3. The Metro hater's guide to Windows 8.1
-Curt
had to laugh at that ;D
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Well... after working with Windows since version 3.0, where it was a 28 disk install (Ithink it was that many 3.5" floppies from memory) I gave Windows 8 a try for a few weeks on my new tablet (Lenovo Yoga)... I really can't understand Microsoft's logic on this version. Intuitive it is NOT! I gave up and here is my tip.
I googled for an app to make Win8 look like Win7... Tried a few, but ended up getting what seems to be the best option... Its called Start8.. Now I have my Start menu back, and everything is well in my PC world again. Windows 8.1 interface is no more. Perfect for me!!! :Thmbsup:
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I have been running win 8.1 pre release on a new laptop, not impressed.
Like gregmiddo i prefere a start button.
classicshell is very good.
http://www.classicshell.net/
Next week back to Win 7.
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Well I am using Win 8 and now Win 8.1 and have no problem.
I never felt missing the start button. I am using FARR from Xp and got so habituated with it's quick keyboard response to open an application that I forgot 'there is a start button' !
I just prey that FARR works in Win 9, 10,... and I have no qualms with MS.
BTW I take Metro as a bloatware added by MS, just like IE in Win 98. I used Firefox then and ignore Metro now. Win 8.1 helps me here and I never see it.
Regards,
Anand
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I only rarely use the Start Menu. But it is annoying if I want to get at it and can't find it. I had a folder on the desktop to collect all the desktop icon clutter. Only "Programs," the name of that folder, and Recycle Bin on the desktop. I used Brink's tutorial except I used my existing desktop folder as the containing folder:
http://www.eightforums.com/tutorials/2460-start-menu-toolbar-create-windows-8-taskbar.html
In the screenshot the folders on the left are from Start Menu. The icons on the right are the ones I swept from the Desktop into the folder "Programs." Then I just made a toolbar from the folder using the Taskbar options.
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Edit: the programs I use most frequently I pin to Taskbar. A few I have pinned to Start Screen... mainly programming editors and malware scanners.
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I am still running Win 7 (even though I purchased a copy of Win 8 PRO ten months ago), so I have not taken the time before to really study this thread. To my surprise I now see that you have no link to the wonderful 137 Win 8 "desktop" shortcuts gathered by 7torials (here bundled with 139 Win 7 desktop shortcuts):
#desktop shortcuts, as opposed to keyboard shortcuts.
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These shortcuts work on any computer. Some of the tools are available only on certain Windows versions.
The collection was made using Windows 7 Ultimate and Windows 8 Pro.
They all come from http://www.7tutorials.com/biggest-library-windows-7-shortcuts#main-content
If you want to study the various shortcuts before downloading, you must read http://www.7tutorials.com/biggest-library-windows-7-shortcuts#main-content . The first part of the page is about Win 7, and the second part of course about Win 8. The third part is forum posts.
[ You are not allowed to view attachments ] (http://www.7tutorials.com/biggest-library-windows-7-shortcuts#main-content)
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Anyone have a tip to show what file types are assigned to Metro apps? I am disgusted... I was emailed a wav file (for a voice message) and started playing it. About 5 seconds in, a blasted box pops up "This app needs an update, please download it from the Store to continue". Really, Microsoft? Can't listed to a stinkin' wav file without an update?? I will gladly reassign all file types possible away from behavior like this!
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Anyone have a tip to show what file types are assigned to Metro apps? I am disgusted... I was emailed a wav file (for a voice message) and started playing it. About 5 seconds in, a blasted box pops up "This app needs an update, please download it from the Store to continue". Really, Microsoft? Can't listed to a stinkin' wav file without an update?? I will gladly reassign all file types possible away from behavior like this!
-x16wda
In a similar vein I have Windows Update set to Never Check for Updates. After a couple of weeks passed I got a splash page "Windows Update Needs Your Help.. It hasn't been able to check for updates" etc.. Help it? I want to kill it dead dead dead. Seems there's no happy medium. No fixes at all or 50 a day. :down:
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Anyone have a tip to show what file types are assigned to Metro apps? I am disgusted... I was emailed a wav file (for a voice message) and started playing it. About 5 seconds in, a blasted box pops up "This app needs an update, please download it from the Store to continue". Really, Microsoft? Can't listed to a stinkin' wav file without an update?? I will gladly reassign all file types possible away from behavior like this!
-x16wda
music and images get sent to Metro. There may be other casualties, I'm not sure.
I'm wondering if we dont update all these apps - is there a security risk? They're very free and easy with an internet connection - might even be worth looking at options to block them all (?)
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In a similar vein I have Windows Update set to Never Check for Updates. After a couple of weeks passed I got a splash page "Windows Update Needs Your Help.. It hasn't been able to check for updates" etc.. Help it? I want to kill it dead dead dead. Seems there's no happy medium. No fixes at all or 50 a day. :down:
-MilesAhead
Notifications of updates doesnt work well here either - I think I've gotten one notification in three months. (In fairness, there *is* some sort of reminder as you boot, but it's too discreet -- for me anyway).
And if you set if to 'Notify', the antivirus (Defender?) doesnt update at all :huh:
I found a way to get it to update using the scheduler, but it's not very nice...
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Notifications of updates doesnt work well here either - I think I've gotten one notification in three months. (In fairness, there *is* some sort of reminder as you boot, but it's too discreet -- for me anyway).
I just worked a problem on Windows Eight Forums(I say "worked" rather than solved) where the poor poster is trying to fathom why MS issued an update to fix Windows Update. He restored a 2 year old system image and now is in the position where he cannot find the update fix and wouldn't know how to apply it if he could. Way too catch 22 for me. Why not just issue a patch like normal software engineers?
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Typing filetype on the Start Screen should get you this, (I'm guessing since I use Classic Start Menu and type it in the search box):
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I use MPC-BC (http://sourceforge.net/projects/mpcbe/) for all my media files, (XnView for images), all Metro apps have either been uninstalled or replaced with normal Desktop programs, (via association).
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Nice list. Windows key + E brings up Explorer showing Computer.
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Well, much to my surprise...the brand new HP z420 workstation I got last week with a fresh install of Windows 8.1 just decided to up and forget how to drag and drop anything this morning. It was to the point that I couldn't even resize the columns in a ListView control. But a quick Bing brought up this article (http://www.c-sharpcorner.com/UploadFile/nipuntomar/drag-drop-not-working-in-windows-8/) which resolved the issue. The only interesting thing was that it took about 5min after making the changes for it to start working again - Damn strange me thinks - but it is working again.
Come to think of it, if the article goes away - don't you just hate when that happens - at some time in the future I'll summarize it here:
Open dcomcnfg from an administrative command prompt.
Component Services-->Computers-->My Computer [Right click] and select properties.
On the COM Security tab click Edit Defaults in the Access Permissions section (it's on top).
Note: If you are on a domain select local computer as location.
Grant Local Access permission to the SYSTEM and INTERACTIVE accounts.
Wait a minute or two and it should come back to life. Why the dramatic SciFi resurrection is necessary is beyond me but that's how it went down ... Or came back up rather.
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I have to wonder if the Start Screen/Desktop setup will peacefully coexist. I don't know what they do under the hood. But I do notice stuff that works without issue in W7 that's a hassle in W8. A simple example I have a PastePath tray utility. Very simple. It just copies the path from the last active Explorer Window. You can hotkey the path into file open, save, command prompt or even to paste in an editor. In W8 to get it to work I have to run it as Administrator. Even then it seems to work only half the time. In W7 there's no issue. Strange.
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Backup / create an image:-tomos
>How to Create a System Image with Windows 8.1 File History (http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm)<
A previous tip showed how to create a system image in Windows 8. In Windows 8.1, Microsoft changed the procedure and made it harder to find. In this tip (http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm), I will give the new way to make a system image
http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm-gizmo
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Backup / create an image:-tomos
>How to Create a System Image with Windows 8.1 File History (http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm)<
A previous tip showed how to create a system image in Windows 8. In Windows 8.1, Microsoft changed the procedure and made it [even] harder to find [ :mad:]. In this tip (http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm), I will give the new way to make a system image
http://www.techsupportalert.com/content/how-create-system-image-windows-81-file-history.htm-gizmo
-Curt
ftfy there Curt :D
I wonder if they're actively trying to hide it, or is this just good old incompetence...
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Don't know if this has been posted yet but: Windows 8: How To Recover Previous Versions Of Files (http://winhowto.blogspot.in/2012/09/windows-8-how-to-recover-previous.html)
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Added some updates to first post - Curt's post about how to create a system image in 8.1; minor changes since 8.1 are noted (I'm a late adopter..)
and:
File associations:
Control Panel [>Programs] >Default Programs >Associate a file type with a specific program (Set Associations)
or
from the Start Screen, type Default Programs and proceed as above in Control Panel (thanks 4wd)
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http://swapnil36fg.deviantart.com/art/Clear-3-0-glass-448153611
It seems to go on OK for me. I'm running Windows 8.0 x64.
I'm not sure if it's a keeper. I don't do heavy text editing right now. For that reason I may be able to live with the semi-transparency in Editors. But the color effect in Explorer is not good. Fortunately there's a tray program it uses to set the trans in running programs and explorer.exe can just be removed.
To read many things including the black tray app edit lines I have to select. But where I really like it is the effect on Firefox. It seems to make text a bit easier to read and generally looks cool. You may need something like Theme Font and Size Changer AddOn to make stuff like tab titles readable.
In any case it gives more Glass than anything else I've tried on W8. Perhaps I can fine tune it to make text in editors easier to read. But the effect in command prompts looks good provided they had the black background.
Something free to play around with. :)
Edit: I tried to include a shot of the command prompt but it didn't come out with snipping tool. Just a rectangular blur. Anyway it's your basic gray semi-transparent prompt with white text.
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