Windows 10 Tips, Tricks & Apps

With Windows 10 Microsoft has created an OS that feels both familiar and futuristic, yet has returned to the comfortable familiarity of the pre-Windows 8 operating systems. From the return of the Start menu to the introduction of the new Edge web browser, Windows 10 is packed with brilliant features, abilities and apps that aim to make your computing experience as integrated as possible. But while Windows 10 is absolutely accessible to newcomers and veterans alike, some of its more powerful and complex settings and features may not be immediately apparent. That’s where this new edition of Windows 10 Tips, Tricks & Apps comes in. In this bookazine we will teach you to get the most out of Microsoft’s built-in apps, how to download the Anniversary Update, how to tweak…

Windows 10 is the brand new and most exciting version of Microsoft’s operating system yet. It is designed for multiple devices, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, mobile phones and hybrid devices, such as the Surface. It is an impressive blend of old and familiar features, and new and interesting ones, and this means that you will instantly feel at home whether you have used Windows 7 or 8, but there are also lots of great new features to discover and use. An example of this can be seen when browsing the internet. There is the old and familiar Internet Explorer, but also a new browser called Edge that is fast and packed with innovative and useful features that take it beyond the capabilities of the previous browser. Edge is the…

Settings app The new Settings app enables you to customise Windows and configure a range of options. It has a powerful search facility too Desktop apps Apps no longer run full screen and are in resizeable windows like regular desktop software. Bundled apps must be redesigned Start menu The Start screen has been replaced by the Start menu, which has menus and tiles. Both its size and content are easily customised Action Centre This icon in the taskbar opens the new Action Centre, which has buttons to access common functions, notifications and messages The Windows desktop has been a feature of the operating system since the earliest days, and everyone loved it because there was so much great software for it. It was familiar and easy to use, and whether…

Is Windows 10 really free or do I have to pay for it? If you are running a fully registered, legal copy of Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 then Windows 10 was free of charge up until 29 July 2016. Back then it was possible to use Windows Update to download and install Windows 10. Now that date has passed, you are be required to pay for a full copy or upgrade. If you are running an older version of Windows, such as XP or Vista, you cannot upgrade and you must buy a full copy of Windows 10. What do I have to do to my computer before I can upgrade to Windows 10? It is a good idea to back up your files before you start. An external…

Use virtual desktops The desktop is back and there is not just one of them, but as many as you want! Windows 10 has made virtual desktops, previously only available with third-party software, a feature that everyone can use. With a keypress, you can easily create new desktops or switch between existing ones. Now you can spread out your apps, and each one can be on a different desktop. Talk to Cortana The personal digital assistant is now in Windows 10, so you are able to issue commands to your computer using Cortana. It can be manually activated when needed, or it will cleverly listen for the wake-up call “Hey, Cortana!” You can then ask it for information about pretty much anything, or ask for actions to be carried…

“Some PCs can be upgraded, but others require a clean install” Most PCs running older versions of Windows can run Windows 10. Some can be upgraded, but others require a clean install. So, should you upgrade or clean install Windows 10? Windows XP and Vista users cannot upgrade; a clean install is the only option. Many Windows 7 and 8 users can upgrade, but it depends on several factors. For some, a clean install is a must. A clean install erases everything on the disk before installing Windows 10. This clears out junk files that have accumulated, and afterwards the computer will run better than before. The disadvantage is that your files are erased. Before starting, plug in a USB drive and copy your Documents, Pictures, Videos and Music folders…