I Am A Dirty Pirate

[Berryracer]

Windows 8.1 now has a start button, and even though it still takes you back to the Metro Start, at least it's there, and now you have the option of actually booting up to the desktop instead rather than the Metro Start then having to click on DESKTOP everytime

Once you organize your Metro Start properly you won't even need a start menu alternative app:

Computer now has shortcuts to Docs, Music, Vids, Pics, etc.:

The best fix in Windows 8.1 is now when you install an application it can actually take over the defaults properly. In the past, for example if I installed WinRAR, the Zipped files would still open using the Windows default compression tool until I go to Default Programs and set WinRAR as the default handler. It was a pain to do this for ever app including the browser for example

 

[Underclocked]

Where did you get your iso? PM me if you don't mind. I've tried 5 installs from my iso (hash matches posted values) and have had nothing but major issues with each. I noticed you also posted that an Avast version was compatible - not so on my machine.

Must be hardware differences at fault.

 

[Berryracer]

Where did you get your iso? PM me if you don't mind. I've tried 5 installs from my iso (hash matches posted values) and have had nothing but major issues with each. I noticed you also posted that an Avast version was compatible - not so on my machine.

Must be hardware differences at fault.

I am friends with the ASUS Service Center Manager and he gave me the ISO then I uploaded it to my Google Drive

The moment you install it then go online and put your old Windows 8 Single Language Key it will activate immediately.

Before anyone formats, they need to download and install Belarc Advisor, it will tell them what is their current Windows 8 key down at the bottom near Software Licenses section. Then you need to nore it down for later activation.

PS: Mind you, when installing Windows 8.1 Single Language or Windows 8.1 Pro you should not, I reapeat, should NOT enter your REAL key when asked for by the Windows setup. It will NOT WORK and will tell you wrong key. Reason being, Microsoft now has default keys just for the sake of installation. There are a few default keys but these are just for the sake of installation. After you reach the Windows desktop, then you can enter your actual Windows 8.1 key to activate over the internet or by phone.

Some Default Installation Keys:

Windows 8.1 Core Single Language
Windows 8.1 Core
Windows 8.1 Professional

Most computers ship with Windows 8 Single Language but you must verify what version you have by going to Control Panel > System, and seeing which version it lists there

 

[sweenish]

It's nice to see another person who actually adapted to the new UI and uses it to their benefit.

I try to tell people that the start screen can be much faster when combined with the taskbar, but I guess it's easier to just whine and throw hissy fits.

All that said, I'm not putting the OS on a pedestal. There is still a lot of room for improvement in combining and effectively utilizing both UX's. But I won't ignore the marked performance boost over Windows 7 just because of a screen that I see for 15 seconds of the day.

 

[Berryracer]

It's nice to see another person who actually adapted to the new UI and uses it to their benefit.

I try to tell people that the start screen can be much faster when combined with the taskbar, but I guess it's easier to just whine and throw hissy fits.

All that said, I'm not putting the OS on a pedestal. There is still a lot of room for improvement in combining and effectively utilizing both UX's. But I won't ignore the marked performance boost over Windows 7 just because of a screen that I see for 15 seconds of the day.

Very true.

Now if you right click on the Start Menu, you get a lot of useful commands in my opinion that's even faster to access than the traditional Windows 7 start menu. Example, Command Prompt with Admin Privileges

 

[IamDavid]

If people give Win8 a second chance and figure out the options they'll love it. I'm addicted to the new "Health" app in 8.1. Surprised MS would add something like it.

 

[balloonshark]

The shutdown on the left side of the screen should have been there all along. After at least 13 years of doing it the other way it drives me nuts needing to go to the right side of the screen to shut down or restart the computer.

The app store should also be an optional install for desktop users. I want to rip it out of my OS, burn it, kick it off a cliff and run over it with heavy equipment.

 

[Mem]

Very true.

Now if you right click on the Start Menu, you get a lot of useful commands in my opinion that's even faster to access than the traditional Windows 7 start menu. Example, Command Prompt with Admin Privileges

Here is my Win8 version which I've been using for quite awhile

I use Win+X Menu Editor(free) nice little program for adding stuff to Win+X http://winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.30

 

[Berryracer]

Here is my Win8 version which I've been using for quite awhile

I use Win+X Menu Editor(free) nice little program for adding stuff to Win+X http://winaero.com/comment.php?comment.news.30

2 Comments for j00:

1) That is some awesome Win + X Menu you have! it has all the shortcuts without the need to even hover over the default shutdown drop list! I like it, I will look into this and hope it supports Windows 8.1

2) That is a HOT wallpaper

 

[MTDEW]

Quick OT question.
I'm still on Win7, so forgive me if this is a stupid question.

On the "metro" screen, can you designate what color the tile is for each app so i could color code them?

For example, can i make all my games have a blue tile background and all my apps have a red tile background?

 

[Berryracer]

Quick OT question.
I'm still on Win7, so forgive me if this is a stupid question.

On the "metro" screen, can you designate what color the tile is for each app so i could color code them?

For example, can i make all my games have a blue tile background and all my apps have a red tile background?

no but you can group them and name the group as you see in the first screen shot i have Games, Apps, etc.

 

[ViRGE]

I am only going to say this once, so listen closely.

1) Windows 8.1 has not been released to the public in any form. It is not on MSDN, it is not on Technet, and it is not for sale. So don't come here gloating about having it, because we're not stupid. Our orders are to shut down threads and posters who are engaging in obvious acts of piracy, and it doesn't get any more obvious than this. You're painting a giant red "sue us" target on our forums, and we don't appreciate that.

2) For the love of all that's holy don't post keys!

3) And unless you want to earn an infraction, also don't ask about how to commit piracy. We're not a piracy help forum.

-ViRGE