Microsoft is releasing another update for its operating system, Windows 8, which it hopes will allow users to move comfortably between laptops, tablets, and desktops. Called the Windows 8.1 Update, this free software download not only adds a few new features for touch users. Instead, it aims to fix major issues that Windows desktop and laptop owners may have with the operating system.
Here is how to get the Windows 8.1 Update on your device now.
You’ll need Windows 8.1 itself before you get close to downloading today’s update. This is the biggest update the company released late last year. To get it, go to the Windows Store and tap or click on the banner on the left side of your screen that says “Update to Windows 8.1”. If you don’t see that banner there, you already have everything you need.
Go to by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard or the Windows button at the bottom of your tablet or convertible screen.
Hover your mouse cursor over your screen to open the Charms Bar. Touch users should place their fingers on the right edge of their screen and slide slightly to the left.
Tap or click .
Tap or click . It’s the item in the lower left corner of your screen.
Tap or click the button. Your Windows device will contact Microsoft servers for updates that you haven’t done yet.
Now tap or click on each update you want to install. Before you get the Windows 8.1 update, you will need to install all the important Windows related updates. The update you are looking for in the list is Windows RT 8.1 R2 Update or Windows 8.1 R2 Update. If you don’t see this update, you need to install all important updates first and then come back here. Tap or click .
Now wait for the new updates to finish downloading and installing. During the download phase, you may find that your computer does not allow you to surf the Internet. All other apps should work just fine.
The Windows 8.1 Update is now installed.
Windows Store apps got rid of the Start Screen and can now be pinned to the Desktop. This makes them much more accessible than before. The update also adds menu bars to every Windows Store app, allowing mouse and keyboard users to close or minimize each app without having to drag the entire window to the bottom of the screen as in previous versions. Finally, Microsoft added right-clicking to the Start Screen. This allows tablet and keyboard users to make changes to their Start Screen in ways they are already familiar with.
To read: Windows 8.1 Update 1: Is This What Upgrade Users Have Been Waiting For?
You will definitely want to download today’s Windows 8.1 Update as soon as possible. Microsoft says this update will be required for future updates. If you don’t, you may leave your device vulnerable.
