Yesterday, Microsoft announced the release of Windows 8.1 which is an update to Windows 8 that many folks had problems with. Windows 8.1 is Microsoft’s answer for those who may have issues with Windows 8. It comes with a Start button and an option that lets you boot directly into the Desktop Mode instead of Metro.
This brief guide is going to show you how to always start Windows 8 Desktop instead of launching Windows Metro after signing in. Starting the Desktop gives you option to the Start Button, taskbar, and others features that you won’t get when you boot into Metro.
Not being able to boot directly into Windows Desktop is something many have complained about since Windows 8 was released. There are third-party tool that help bring back the start button and option to directly boot into the Desktop, but nothing officially from Microsoft. This update seems like Microsoft’s response to that.
Since Windows 8.1 is still in preview, you must install a tool that will kick in the upgrade to 8.1. To Do that, open your browser and download it from here. After installing it, you’ll be prompted to head over to the apps store and install Windows 8.1.
The final version of Windows 8 will come with 8.1 updates so installing the tool first won’t be necessary. When you’ve updated to 8.1, sign onto Windows and open the Desktop. Then right-click on a blank area of the Taskbar and select Properties.
When dialog box opens, select the Navigation tab and check the box to ‘Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in’.
That’s it! The next time you restart your computer, it will boot directly into the desktop.
Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I boot into Desktop Mode in Windows 8.1?
To boot into Desktop Mode in Windows 8.1, right-click on a blank area of the Taskbar, select Properties, go to the Navigation tab, and check the box 'Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in'.
What is the difference between Windows 8 and Windows 8.1?
Windows 8.1 is an update to Windows 8 that includes a Start button and the option to boot directly into Desktop Mode instead of Metro, addressing some of the issues users had with Windows 8.
How do I update to Windows 8.1 preview?
To update to Windows 8.1 preview, you need to install a tool that will prompt you to download the update from the app store after installation. The final version of Windows 8 will come with the 8.1 updates.
Is there a way to bring back the start button in Windows 8?
Yes, there are third-party tools available that can help bring back the start button in Windows 8. Installing these tools can provide a familiar interface for users.
What features does Windows 8 Desktop Mode offer?
Windows 8 Desktop Mode provides access to the Start Button, taskbar, and other features that are not available when booting into Metro. It offers a more traditional desktop experience.
Can I disable Metro interface in Windows 8.1?
Yes, you can disable the Metro interface in Windows 8.1 by setting the option to boot directly into the Desktop Mode instead of Metro. This allows you to bypass the Metro interface after signing in.
Why did Microsoft release Windows 8.1?
Microsoft released Windows 8.1 as an update to address the issues and feedback received from users of Windows 8. It includes improvements such as the Start button and the option to boot into Desktop Mode.
Are there official tools from Microsoft to customize Windows 8.1 boot options?
Currently, there are no official tools from Microsoft to customize Windows 8.1 boot options. Users can use third-party tools to modify boot settings such as booting directly into Desktop Mode.