Microsoft releases a Windows 8.1 how to PDF manual

By Konrad Krawczyk Published January 21, 2014

google discloses another windows security bug fix out soon 8 1 review — Image used with permission by copyright holder

In its efforts to help Windows 8.1 and owners of the newest version of Microsoft’s desktop OS get more acquainted, Redmond published a PDF manual entitled “Windows 8.1 Power User Guide.” Though the first page of the PDF frames this guide as a document geared towards business users, as CNET notes, there are plenty of notes and tips in here that the average Windows 8.1 can take advantage of.

For instance, one page of the PDF details how a Windows 8.1 user can get to certain areas of the OS in no time by right-clicking on the Start menu while in the classic desktop side of the Windows 8.1 UI. By right-clicking on the Start menu button, you’ll pull up another menu that features several cool buttons that’ll zip you over to other areas you might want to access on a regular or even semi-regular basis, like the Task Manager, Control Panel, Programs and Features, Power Options and much more.

Recommended Videos

Flip around the rest of the guide and you’ll find tips on how to get the most out of other Windows 8.1 features including the Taskbar, File Explorer, Mobility Center, Task Manager, linking a Miracast-enabled display with your Windows 8.1 PC, and much more.

To download Microsoft’s new Windows 8.1 guide, just click here.

What do you think of this Windows 8.1 guide? Do you think there are any crucial tips missing from this guide? Sound off in the comments below.

Topics

Konrad Krawczyk

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Konrad covers desktops, laptops, tablets, sports tech and subjects in between for Digital Trends. Prior to joining DT, he…

Computing

Microsoft just released its ‘unified gateway to Windows’ for Mac

The Surface Pro 11 on a white table in front of a window.

Microsoft has launched a new Windows App for Mac that unifies the remote access Windows experience. There are even versions for iOS, iPadOS, and web browsers, with an Android version in public preview mode.

Windows App: Your gateway to Windows on any device

Computing

The most common Microsoft Teams problems and how to fix them

A close-up of someone using Microsoft Teams on a laptop for a videoconference.

Microsoft Teams was introduced in 2017 as a unified communication and collaboration platform aimed at helping businesses and organizations get things done. Microsoft leveraged the company's existing Office software experience and created a unified experience between Teams, Office 365, and Skype for Business. However, as with all software, things don't always go according to plan. If you're using Microsoft Teams, sometimes you can run into problems.

We're big Teams users here at Digital Trends -- it's our go-to communication and meeting tool -- and we've come across a few issues ourselves over the years. In the event you're having Microsoft Teams issues, here's how to fix some of the most common problems.

Computing

How to keep your Microsoft Teams status active

Man uses Microsoft Teams on a laptop in order to video chat.

Keeping your Microsoft Teams status as "Active" can be a stressful experience if your boss is constantly looking over your shoulder. It might not be the most common Teams problem, but it's one we've all experienced at some point. While you might be getting on with something productive, if the person in charge doesn't know that and doesn't take kindle to "Busy" statuses, you may want to try some tricks to keep your status active when using Microsoft Teams.

Fortunately there are a number of ways you can do that, from the honest and transparent, to the slightly sneaky. No judgement here. You do what you need to do. We're just here to teach you how to keep your Team status active.