The Windows 8 FAQ

What's new in Windows 8?

The smart touch-ready Metro interface, later renamed Modern UI, with “live tiles” that auto-update with streamed information. Great on tablets; not so much on PCs without touch. Windows To Go lets you carry your Windows environment and files securely on a flash drive and boot up from it; Windows Store stocks Metro-style apps; Microsoft Live ID sign-in lets you backup your data and photos to SkyDrive, and auto-configures email. Win 8 tablets plug into a dock to transform into a desktop that runs all Windows apps.

Is it a really big deal?

Windows 8 can change how you use your PC, if it has a touch-screen. With a tablet, you get a Windows-desktop-convertible. On a conventional PC or laptop, you may not easily notice anything really big. Overall, it's a big change from its predecessors.

Will Win 8 change the world?

No, but it will bring touch screens into laptops and desktops. Expect a range of touch-enabled PCs and hybrid devices (with fold-away or detachable keyboards).

Will it push PC sales up?

Unlikely. I don't see people buying PCs just because of Win 8. For a regular PC, it's not that radical. Future touch PCs might be a good reason for consumers to upgrade a little sooner than they otherwise might have. But business users are anyway more likely to continue with Win 7 on new PCs purchased.

Should I upgrade to Win 8?

Probably not on your old PC, especially if you're already running Win 7. Win 8 really makes sense when buying a new, touch-screen PC. If you're in the tiny minority with a touch-PC or tablet running Win 7, an upgrade makes sense. Also, an OS upgrade is a good opportunity to clean up and refresh your PC - if you have at least 2 GB RAM. Note that Win 7 remains a good option in such a case.

What can I run Windows 8 on?

All new and current Intel/AMD PCs, and probably your old PC as long as it has a 1 GHz or better processor and 2 GB of memory. 50 GB of free disk space is a good idea. Win 8 also runs comfortably on MacBook Pro and Air notebooks. And on Intel-based tablets like the Samsung Slate 7 (ARM-based tablets run Windows RT).

How many versions does Win 8 have?

The standard Win 8 is aimed at consumers, and available in 32-bit and 64-bit versions. Win 8 Pro is for business users: it adds domain support, virtual hard disk bootup, and other pro features; it also lets you add Windows Media Center, free. Win 8 Enterprise adds IT organization features to Pro.

And finally, there's Win RT, for ARM tablets.

Which version should I buy?

With a new PC (Core 2 Duo and above), you'll probably get the Win 8 64-bit version. Netbooks will carry a 32-bit version. For an older PC, if you have 2 GB or less of memory, or if you're upgrading from XP, stick to 32 bits. Power users and those who want to use 4 GB or more of RAM need the 64-bit version.

What is Windows RT?

Win RT is stripped-down Windows, pre-installed on tablets with ARM (not Intel/AMD) processors. Win RT bundles Office (sans Outlook) and other apps, and more apps are available from Windows Store. Win RT will not run any desktop apps (Windows apps like Outlook, Photoshop, etc) other than what's bundled with it or what's on the Windows Store. Win RT vs Win 8 is a bit like iOS vs Mac OS, but RT does not have iOS's universe of apps, nor can it run regular Windows apps.