March 3, 2012

Try Windows 8 today!

Microsoft's next version of Windows, version 8, is going to change all the rules. It has a new touch-friendly interface, supports apps and the backend is geared toward mobile gadgets. Learn more about the massive changes in Windows 8.

Windows 8 won't officially launch until near Christmas, but you can test it out today! Just head over to Microsoft's site and grab the Windows 8 Consumer Preview.

Before you do however, I have a word of warning. This is an early, likely still unstable, version of Windows 8.

DO NOT INSTALL WINDOWS 8 OVER YOUR CURRENT VERSION OF WINDOWS!

You need to install the Consumer Preview to another hard drive partition or use a virtual machine. The best place to install it is a separate test computer, if you have a spare computer sitting around.

If you do have a spare computer, you can download the Windows 8 Consumer Preview setup file and install using that. Otherwise, you'll want to grab the ISO image version.

You can install the ISO directly on a virtual machine or burn it to a DVD or flash drive as a bootable image using a program like CDBurnerXP.

Use the bootable disc or flash drive to install Windows 8 to a newly created hard drive partition. Just be very sure you're installing it to the correct partition. You don't want to accidentally overwrite your existing data.

This is definitely a process for advanced computer users. If you aren't fully confident in your technical skills, or have never done this before, I would suggest not attempting it.

The ISO version of Windows 8 will ask for a product key during installation. The key for the Consumer Preview is: NF32V-Q9P3W-7DR7Y-JGWRW-JFCK8

It's always a good idea to back up your data before messing with operating systems, even if you know what you're doing. Of course, you should be making regular backups anyway, or using an automated backup service.

A final note: Microsoft has designed Windows 8 to work closely with cloud services and support apps. During installation, you'll come to a section that allows you to choose Express settings for sharing personal data. Those concerned with privacy may want to choose to customize those settings.

You can opt out of many sharing services, such as geo-location and sharing user information. However, in the Consumer Preview, Windows 8 will still report certain types of activity, anonymously, to Microsoft so it can improve the operating system. Just be aware you can't turn off that type of sharing.

Cost: Free
System: Windows 8

Click Here to Download Now >>

As the presidential election season heats up, there is an increasing deluge of news and information. These apps will help you wade through the flood.
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE >>

Keep up to date on all things digital with the Daily News at Komando.com. You'll find easy, fast video news releases, too!
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE >>

There are plenty of diet sites out there that will try to fit you into a program. Here's a site that helps you build a diet based on your needs.
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE >>

One of the biggest costs associated with computer use is printing. Fortunately, there are plenty of great ways to save money on ink and paper.
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE >>

The world is rapidly growing and changing. Is education keeping pace? This fascinating, animated lecture discusses the state of education and how it can change to better benefit children.
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE >>