And getting through the fear of the new and unknown

It seems whenever a program, website, or game is given an update, the first thing consumers like to do is gripe about all of the new changes to which they have to adapt. Nobody seems to like it when Facebook changes its layout, or when Nintendo or Microsoft come out with new consoles like the WiiU and the Xbox One. We all like what we know.

Such an event happened about eight months ago when the Windows operating system underwent a huge face lift with the release of Windows 8. From the new Start Screen to the simplified, tablet-like design, everyone found something they didn’t like. We at Hogan’s Systems understand our customers concerns for what new features Windows 8 has brought, and so we have used it and tested it out so that we can better help those who have doubts about upgrading their computers.

Windows 8 is ideal for those looking to get a tablet and a computer at the same time, because they will be using the same operating system when they get both a Windows PC and tablet. It is also good for people with lots of programs on their computer that they may have a hard time keeping track of. With the Start Screen, you can place and organize all of your most frequently used programs in one place, without taking up the entirety of your desktop screen with shortcuts.

One aspect of Windows 8 that understandably makes a lot of people nervous are the apps found on the Start Screen. These apps make it seem like Windows 8 is run only through them and not through desktop programs like on Windows XP, Vista, and 7; but this is not true. The apps are optional, and easily hidden for those who do not want to use them. One of these apps is the desktop screen, and it is with a click that you can return to the same familiar desktop that you are used to seeing.

There are, however, many apps that make using the computer easier, and with these apps can come program organization. One example of this is with chat clients like Skype. Sometimes when you have many programs open on your desktop, you can lose track of your chat client and have to hunt through many windows to find it again. With Windows 8 apps, Skype can be pinned to one side of the screen where it is separate from the desktop and cannot be lost among other windows.

It is true that Windows 8 seems intimidating at first, but you only need to give it a chance to see the great features it has.

©2014 Hogan’s Systems Consulting, LLC