Windows 10: The Missing Manual, 2nd Edition

Introduction

Even Microsoft admits it now: Windows 8 was a huge mistake. It was, in essence, two radically different operating systems, superimposed: the traditional Windows desktop, overlaid by a new, colorful world of tiles that was designed for the universe of touchscreen tablets and laptops. The result was two web browsers, two Control Panels, two email programs, two ways of doing everything. And, in general, people couldn’t stand it.

In hopes of getting as far from Windows 8 as possible, Microsoft skipped Windows 9 entirely; there never was a Windows 9.

But in Windows 10, Microsoft achieved something brilliant: It eliminated the split personality of Windows 8 while managing to retain the touch-friendly features. (Just in case, you know, the world moves to touchscreen computers after all.)

If you’re a PC veteran, you’ll recognize Windows 10: It’s pretty much Windows 7 with a few new features and nicer typography.

And if you’re new to all this, get down on your knees beside your bed tonight and thank whatever you believe in that you missed Windows 8 entirely. You were spared the emotional and mental whiplash of Microsoft’s changing its mind.

A Short History of Windows 10

Originally, Microsoft announced that Windows 10 would be a perpetual work in progress—a continuously improved, living blob of software. There wouldn’t be those periodic service packs—megalithic chunks of updates and patches—anymore; instead, Microsoft said that it would add features continuously via quiet, ...