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{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2015}}
{{Windows 8}}
The transition from [[Windows 7]] to [[Windows 8]] introduced a number of
==Development platform==
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==Shell and user interface==
[[File:Windows 8 pre-login.png|thumb|The revised lock screen interface in Windows 8]]
Windows 8 features a redesigned user interface built upon the [[Metro (design language)|Metro design language]],<ref name="Pietroforte">{{cite web |url=http://4sysops.com/archives/windows-8-new-features-the-complete-list-updated/ |title=Windows 8 new features – The complete list (updated) |last=Pietroforte |first=Michael |work=4sysops |date=August 28, 2012
[[Metro-style apps]] can either run in a full-screen environment, or be snapped to the side of a screen alongside another app or the desktop; snapping requires a screen resolution of 1366×768 or higher.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab>{{cite news|title=New Windows 8 hardware specs hint at 7-inch tablets and a Microsoft Reader|url=http://www.zdnet.com/new-windows-8-hardware-specs-hint-at-7-inch-tablets-and-a-microsoft-reader-7000013271/|work=ZDNet|access-date=March 29, 2013|archive-date=December 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141204160922/http://www.zdnet.com/new-windows-8-hardware-specs-hint-at-7-inch-tablets-and-a-microsoft-reader-7000013271/|url-status=live}}</ref> Windows 8.1 lowers the snapping requirement to a screen resolution of 1024x768.<ref name="Callaham">{{cite web |url=http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-blue-lowers-modern-app-snap-view-resolution-to-1024x768 |title=Windows 'Blue' lowers Modern app snap view resolution to 1024x768 |last=Callaham |first=John |website=Neowin |date=March 26, 2013 |access-date=February 22, 2013 |archive-date=March 29, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329123304/http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-blue-lowers-modern-app-snap-view-resolution-to-1024x768 |url-status=live }}</ref> Users can switch between apps and the desktop by clicking on the top left corner or by swiping the left side of the touchscreen to invoke a sidebar that displays all currently opened Metro-style apps. Right-clicking on the upper left corner provides a context menu with options to switch between open apps. The traditional desktop is accessible from a tile on the Start screen or by launching a desktop app. The {{key press|Alt|Tab}} shortcut cycles through all programs, regardless of type.▼
▲[[Metro-style apps]] can either run in a full-screen environment, or be snapped to the side of a screen alongside another app or the desktop; snapping requires a screen resolution of 1366×768 or higher.<ref name=zdnet-smallertab>{{cite news|title=New Windows 8 hardware specs hint at 7-inch tablets and a Microsoft Reader|url=
[[File:Windows 8
The interface also incorporates a taskbar on the right side of the screen known as "[[Windows shell#Charms|the charms]]" (lowercase), which can be accessed from any app or the desktop by sliding from the right edge of a touchscreen or compatible touchpad, by moving the mouse cursor to one of the right corners of the screen, or by pressing {{key press|Win|C}}. The charms include Search, Share, [[Start menu|Start]], Devices and Settings charms. The Start charm invokes or dismisses the Start screen. Other charms invoke context-sensitive sidebars that can be used to access app and system functionality. Because of the aforementioned changes involving the use of [[screen hotspot|hot corners]], user interface navigation in Windows 8 is fundamentally different when compared with previous versions of Windows. To assist new users of the operating system, Microsoft incorporated a tutorial that appears during the installation of Windows 8, and also during the first sign-in of a new user account, which visually instructs users to move their mouse cursor into any corner of the screen (or swipe the corners on devices with touchscreens) to interact with the operating system.<ref name="Windows8OOBE">{{cite web |url=http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-to-get-oobe-tutorial |title=Windows 8 to get OOBE tutorial |last=Sams |first=Brad |publisher=Neowin |date=May 3, 2012 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=April 5, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150405133937/http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-to-get-oobe-tutorial |url-status=live }}</ref> The tutorial can be disabled so that it does not appear for new user accounts.<ref name="DisableT">{{cite web |url=http://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/stop-windows-8-intro-animation-users |title=Stop the Windows 8 Intro Animation for Users |last=Savill |first=John |date=April 14, 2013 |publisher=[[Penton]] |work=Windows IT Pro |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150916083456/http://windowsitpro.com/windows-8/stop-windows-8-intro-animation-users |archive-date=September 16, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Windows 8.1 introduces navigation hints with instructions that are displayed during the first use of the operating system, and also includes a help and support app.<ref name="Help+Tips">{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-help-tips |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: Help + Tips |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=August 17, 2013 |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317015345/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-help-tips |url-status=live }}</ref>
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===Start screen===
{{Main|Start menu#Windows 8|l1=Start screen}}
[[File:Windows 8 Start Screen.png|thumb|The new Start screen in Windows 8 replaces the Start menu seen in previous versions of Windows.]]
Windows 8 introduces a new form of [[start menu]] called Start screen, which resembles the home screen of [[Windows Phone]], and is shown in place of the desktop on startup. The Start screen serves as the primary method of launching applications and consists of a grid of app tiles which can be arranged into columnar groups; groups can be arranged with or without group names.<ref name="DesignStartScreen">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/04/designing-the-start-screen.aspx |title=Designing the Start screen |publisher=[[Microsoft]] |date=October 4, 2011 |work=Building Windows 8 |access-date=February 26, 2015 |archive-date=
Windows 8.1 makes the following changes to the Start screen:
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* New background options for the Start screen, including animated backgrounds and the ability to use the desktop wallpaper.<ref>{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=Windows 8.1 Preview ... Visually |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-preview-visually |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |date=June 5, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130608150415/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-preview-visually |archive-date=June 8, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* Enhanced synchronization settings, including those for app tile arrangement, tile sizes, and background.<ref name="StartScreenSync">{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-s-clues-start-screen-sync |title=Blue's Clues: Start Screen Sync |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=March 27, 2013 |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317211058/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-s-clues-start-screen-sync |url-status=live }}</ref>
* In a [[multi-monitor]] configuration, Windows 8.1 can optionally display the Start screen only on the primarily display monitor instead of the currently active monitor when the {{keypress|Win}} key is pressed.<ref name="OptimizeDesktop"/>
* Multiple desktop applications can be selected from the Start screen and pinned to the taskbar at once, or multiple desktop applications and Metro-style apps can be selected from the "All Apps" view and pinned to the Start screen at once.<ref name="Personalize">{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-personalize-start-screen |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Personalize the Start Screen |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=October 2, 2013 |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150311081908/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-personalize-start-screen |url-status=live }}</ref> Windows 8.1 Update augments this capability by allowing Metro-style apps to be pinned to the taskbar.<ref name="Tutorial">{{cite web |url=http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/start-screen-tutorial |author=Microsoft |title=Start screen - Windows tutorial: Page 3 of 11 |access-date=March 11, 2015 |archive-date=March 9, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150309123914/http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/start-screen-tutorial |url-status=live }}</ref> The Start menu in previous versions of Windows allowed only one desktop application to be selected and/or pinned at a time.
* By default, Windows 8.1 no longer displays recently installed apps and their related entries on the Start screen; users must manually pin these items.<ref name="FindApps">{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-find-your-installed-apps |title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Find Your Installed Apps |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=September 11, 2013 |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 25, 2015 |archive-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223165820/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-find-your-installed-apps |url-status=live }}</ref>
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Windows 8.1 reverts two changes that were featured in Windows 8. Windows 8 removed the [[Start button]] on the [[taskbar]] in favor of other ways of invoking the Start screen. Windows 8.1 restores this button.<ref name=pt-win8startbutton>{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=Coming in Blue: Boot to Desktop, Start Button, and More! |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/coming-blue-boot-desktop-start-button-and-more |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |date=May 29, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607181355/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/coming-blue-boot-desktop-start-button-and-more |archive-date=June 7, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name=pt-startisback>{{cite web |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |title=In Blue: Start Experience Changes |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-start-experience-changes |work=Supersite for Windows |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |date=May 29, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530005326/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/blue-start-experience-changes |archive-date=May 30, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Windows 8 also showed the Start screen upon logon, as opposed to other editions of Windows that show the desktop. In Windows 8.1, user may now choose which one to see first.<ref name=pt-win8startbutton/> Windows 8.1 Update boots to the desktop by default on non-tablet devices<ref name="PFE"/> and introduces the ability to switch to the taskbar from the Start screen or from an open Metro-style app by directing the mouse cursor toward the bottom of the screen.<ref name="WhatsNew"/>
Windows 8.1 introduces a new "slide to shutdown" option which allows users to drag their partially revealed [[lock screen]] image toward the bottom of the screen to shut down the operating system.<ref name="SlidetoShutdown">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/amar/archive/2014/05/20/slide-to-shutdown-in-windows-8-1-great-for-touch-devices.aspx |title=Slide to shutdown in Windows 8.1 – great for touch devices |last=Nityananda |first=Amar |date=May 19, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=MSDN Blogs |access-date=February 28, 2015 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402154026/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/amar/archive/2014/05/20/slide-to-shutdown-in-windows-8-1-great-for-touch-devices.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> Windows 8.1 Update introduces a visible power button on the Start screen.<ref name="BloggingWindows">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2014/04/10/some-tips-and-tricks-for-using-the-windows-8-1-update-updated/ |title=Some tips and tricks for using the Windows 8.1 Update [UPDATED!] |last=LeBlanc |first=Brandon |date=April 10, 2014 |publisher=Microsoft |work=Blogging Windows |access-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221212103/http://blogs.windows.com/bloggingwindows/2014/04/10/some-tips-and-tricks-for-using-the-windows-8-1-update-updated/ |url-status=live }}</ref> This power button does not appear on all hardware device types.<ref name="PowerShutdown">{{cite web |url=http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2959188 |title=Power/shutdown button may be missing from the Windows 8.1 start screen |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 20, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222060416/http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2959188 |url-status=live }}</ref> By default, new account profiles in Windows 8.1 Update also receive four additional tiles pinned to the Start screen: This PC, PC Settings, [[My Documents|Documents]], and Pictures. In [[Windows RT]], only the PC Settings tile is added.<ref name="PFE"/>
===Search===
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===Microsoft account integration===
Windows 8 allows users to link profiles with a [[Microsoft account]] to provide additional functionality, such as the synchronization of user data and settings,<ref name="8SS">{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-feature-focus-settings-sync |title=Windows 8 Feature Focus: Settings Sync |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |date=November 8, 2012 |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223150154/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-8-feature-focus-settings-sync |url-status=live }}</ref> including those belonging to the desktop, and allows for integration with other Microsoft services such as [[Xbox Live]], [[Xbox Music]], [[Xbox Video]] (for gaming and multimedia) and [[OneDrive|SkyDrive]] [[online file storage]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Signing in to Windows 8 with a Windows Live ID |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/26/signing-in-to-windows-8-with-a-windows-live-id.aspx |work=Microsoft |date=September 2011 |quote=Saved settings are available when you sign in to your account on any Windows 8 PC |access-date=February 11, 2012 |archive-date=
===Display screen===
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Windows Explorer, which has been renamed as File Explorer, now incorporates a [[Ribbon (computing)|ribbon]] toolbar, designed to bring forward the most commonly used commands for easy access. The "Up" button (which advances the user back a level in the folder hierarchy) that was removed from Explorer after [[Windows XP]] has also been restored.<ref name="Explorer Improvements">{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/29/improvements-in-windows-explorer.aspx |title=Improvements in Windows Explorer |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-date=November 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111107021845/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/29/improvements-in-windows-explorer.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> Additionally, File Explorer features a redesigned preview pane that takes advantage of widescreen layouts.<ref name="Explorer Improvements" /> File Explorer also provides a built-in function for mounting [[ISO image|ISO]], [[IMG (file format)|IMG]], and [[VHD (file format)|VHD]] files as virtual drives.<ref>{{cite web |title=Accessing data in ISO and VHD files |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/30/accessing-data-in-iso-and-vhd-files.aspx |work=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-date=November 6, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106080406/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/30/accessing-data-in-iso-and-vhd-files.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> For easier management of files and folders, Windows 8 introduces the ability to move selected files or folders via [[drag and drop]] from a parent folder into a subfolder listed within the [[Breadcrumb (navigation)|breadcrumb]] hierarchy of the [[address bar]] in File Explorer.<ref name="DragandDrop">{{cite web |url=http://www.eyeonwindows.com/2011/04/28/windows-8-drag-and-drop-icons-into-breadcrumb-links/ |title=Windows 8 drag and drop icons into breadcrumb links |last=Amobi |first=Onuora |publisher=Nnigma Inc. |work=Eye on Windows |date=April 28, 2011 |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222050555/http://www.eyeonwindows.com/2011/04/28/windows-8-drag-and-drop-icons-into-breadcrumb-links/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Progress windows for file operations have also been redesigned; offering the ability to show multiple operations at once, a graph for tracking transfer speeds, and the ability to pause and resume a file transfer.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/23/improving-our-file-management-basics-copy-move-rename-and-delete.aspx |title=Improving our file management basics: copy, move, rename and delete |work=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-date=February 17, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217174043/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/23/improving-our-file-management-basics-copy-move-rename-and-delete.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> A new interface has also been introduced for managing file name collisions in a file operation, allowing users to easily control which conflicting files are copied.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/26/designing-the-windows-8-file-name-collision-experience.aspx |title=Designing the Windows 8 file name collision experience |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=September 17, 2011 |archive-date=
[[Features new to Windows 7#Libraries|Libraries]] introduced in [[Windows 7]] can now have their icons changed through the user interface;<ref>{{cite web |first=Paul |last=Thurrott |author-link=Paul Thurrott |url=http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-changing-custom-library-icon-140784 |title=Windows 8 Secrets: Changing a Custom Library Icon |work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows |publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]] |date=October 1, 2011 |access-date=June 27, 2013 |archive-date=June 3, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603131410/http://winsupersite.com/article/windows8/windows-8-secrets-changing-custom-library-icon-140784 |url-status=live }}</ref> previously, users had to change icons by manually editing configuration files.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/6326/change-your-windows-7-library-icons-the-easy-way/ |title=Change Your Windows 7 Library Icons the Easy Way |work=HowToGeek.com |date=June 22, 2013 |access-date=June 27, 2013 |archive-date=July 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130713220225/http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/6326/change-your-windows-7-library-icons-the-easy-way/ |url-status=live }}</ref> With Windows 8.1., libraries can now also include removable storage devices; previously, adding removable storage devices to libraries was not supported.<ref name="Windows81Surprises">{{cite web |url=https://www.pcworld.com/article/448329/windows-8-1-surprises-25-hidden-features-and-little-extras.html |title=Windows 8.1 surprises: 25 hidden features and little extras |last=Chacos |first=Brad |date=October 31, 2013 |access-date=December 1, 2022}}</ref> Windows 8.1, however, no longer creates any default libraries for new users, and does not display the Libraries listing in File Explorer by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Thurrott|first=Paul|title=Are Libraries Going Away in Windows 8.1?|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/are-libraries-going-away-windows-81|work=Paul Thurrott's SuperSite for Windows|publisher=[[Penton (professional information services)|Penton Media]]|author-link=Paul Thurrott|access-date=June 10, 2013|date=June 10, 2013|quote=Apparently, libraries will still be a capability of Windows 8/RT with the 8.1 update but the default libraries are no longer created when you set up a new user. You can still create custom libraries if you'd like.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130613234448/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/are-libraries-going-away-windows-81|archive-date=June 13, 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> Instead, Windows 8.1 introduces shortcuts to the default user profile folders (Documents, Downloads, Pictures, etc.) within the This PC ___location of File Explorer. The libraries can be enabled in the Options menu.<ref name="ThisPC">{{cite web |url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-pc |title=Hands-On with Windows 8.1: This PC |last=Thurrott |first=Paul |author-link=Paul Thurrott |date=June 26, 2013 |publisher=[[Penton]] |work=Supersite for Windows |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=March 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150317224435/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/hands-windows-81-pc |url-status=live }}</ref>
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===Task Manager===
[[File:Windows 8 task manager.png|thumb|The new [[Windows Task Manager|Task Manager]] in Windows 8 offers a detailed look at how system resources are being used.]]
Windows 8 includes an overhauled version of [[Windows Task Manager|Task Manager]], which features the following changes:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/13/the-windows-8-task-manager.aspx |title=The Windows 8 Task Manager |date=October 2011 |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=March 24, 2012 |archive-date=January 25, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130125002701/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/10/13/the-windows-8-task-manager.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref>
* Task Manager defaults to a simple view which only displays a list of [[computer program]]s with a [[window (computing)|window]]. The expanded view is an updated version of the previous Task Managers with several tabs.
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===Hardware support===
Windows 8 adds native support for [[USB 3.0]], which allows for faster data transfers and improved power management with compatible devices.<ref>{{cite web |first=Dennis |last=Flanagan |editor-first=Steven |editor-last=Sinofsky |editor-link=Steven Sinofsky |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/22/building-robust-usb-3-0-support.aspx |title=Building robust USB 3.0 support |website=Building Windows 8 |publisher=Microsoft |date=August 2011 |access-date=February 17, 2012 |archive-date=February 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224014118/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/08/22/building-robust-usb-3-0-support.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396 |title=Microsoft to provide USB 3.0 support for better battery life in Windows 8 |website=[[ZDNet]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |date=August 2011 |access-date=August 30, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926134525/http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-to-provide-usb-30-support-for-better-battery-life-in-windows-8/10396 |archive-date=September 26, 2011 |url-status=dead }}</ref> This native stack includes support for the newer, more efficient [[USB Attached SCSI]] (UAS) protocol,<ref>{{cite web |first=Jerome |last=Myers |url=http://plugable.com/2012/10/25/usb-3-0-support-on-windows-8 |title=New USB 3.0 Support Built-In to Windows 8 |website=Plugable |date=October 25, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=February 1, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201154348/http://plugable.com/2012/10/25/usb-3-0-support-on-windows-8 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn423379%28v=vs.85%29.aspx#loadeddriver |title=USB in Windows - FAQ (Windows Drivers) |website=[[MSDN]] |publisher=[[Microsoft]] |date=November 16, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 5, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140105230801/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn423379(v=vs.85).aspx#loadeddriver |url-status=live }}</ref> which is turned on by default even for USB 2.0 devices,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/jj248714.aspx |title=USB Attached SCSI (UAS) Best Practices for Windows 8 |website=[[MSDN]] |publisher=[[Microsoft]] |format=[[Office Open XML]] |page=6 |date=July 24, 2012 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=February 6, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130206235329/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/jj248714.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> although these must however have supporting firmware/hardware to take advantage of it. Windows 8.1 enhanced support for power saving features of USB storage devices, but this addition was not without problems, with some poorly implemented hardware degrading user experience by hangs and disconnects.<ref>{{cite web |first=Jim |last=Bovee |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/usbcoreblog/archive/2013/11/01/help-after-installing-windows-8-1-my-usb-drive-disappears-or-file-transfers-stop-unexpectedly-r-a-post-title.aspx |title=Help! After installing Windows 8.1, my USB drive disappears or file transfers stop unexpectedly… |website=Microsoft Windows USB Core Team Blog |publisher=[[Microsoft]] |date=October 31, 2013 |access-date=January 20, 2014 |archive-date=January 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122103020/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/usbcoreblog/archive/2013/11/01/help-after-installing-windows-8-1-my-usb-drive-disappears-or-file-transfers-stop-unexpectedly-r-a-post-title.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> Windows 8 adds support for [[Human interface device|HID]] over [[I²C|I2C]].<ref>[https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/drivers/hid/hid-over-i2c-guide Introduction to HID over I2C]</ref>
Support for [[Advanced Format]] hard drives without emulation is included for the first time.<ref>{{cite web |title=Advanced format (4K) disk compatibility update (Windows) |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848035(v=vs.85).aspx |website=[[MSDN]] |publisher=Microsoft |date=November 28, 2012 |access-date=January 3, 2013 |archive-date=January 11, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130111233631/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848035(v=vs.85).aspx |url-status=live }}</ref>
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Windows 8.1 improves hardware support with [[DirectX]] 11.2.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/apps/bg182410 |title=Windows 8.1 Preview: New APIs and features for developers |work=[[MSDN#Library|MSDN Library]] |publisher=[[Microsoft]] |date=June 26, 2013 |access-date=June 27, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130628080725/http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/windows/apps/bg182410 |archive-date=June 28, 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
Windows 8.1 adds native support for [[NVM Express]]. Windows 8.1 adds support for Precise Touchpad, which allows operating system to management gestures of USB and I2C [[touchpad]]s.<ref>{{cite web | title=Windows precision touchpad devices - Compatibility Cookbook | url=https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/precision-touchpad-devices }}</ref>
Windows 8 adds support for UEFI Secure Boot, and [[Trusted Platform Module|TPM]] 2.0. UEFI with secure boot enabled is a requirement on computers shipped with Windows 8.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.networkworld.com/article/738394/microsoft-subnet-next-gen-boot-spec-could-forever-lock-linux-off-windows-8-pcs.html | title=Next-gen boot spec could forever lock Linux off Windows 8 PCS }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-will-complicate-linux-installs/ | title=Windows 8 secure boot could complicate Linux installs | date=September 21, 2011 }}</ref>
===Installation===
Alongside the existing [[WinPE]]-based [[Windows Setup]] (which is used for installations that are initiated by booting from DVD, USB, or [[Preboot Execution Environment|network]]), '''Upgrade Assistant''' is offered to provide a simpler and faster process for upgrading to Windows 8 from previous versions of Windows. The program runs a compatibility check to scan the device's hardware and software for Windows 8 compatibility, and then allows the user to purchase, download, generate installation media with a DVD or [[USB flash drive]] and install Windows 8. The new installation process also allows users to transfer user data into a clean installation of Windows.<ref name="microsoftrevealsprice">{{cite web | first=Paul | last=McDougall | url=http://www.informationweek.com/windows/microsoft-news/microsoft-reveals-windows-8-upgrade-pric/240003119 | title=Microsoft Reveals Windows 8 Upgrade Price | website=[[InformationWeek]] | publisher=[[UBM plc|UBM]] | date=July 3, 2012 | access-date=July 4, 2012 | archive-date=August 10, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810013404/http://www.informationweek.com/windows/microsoft-news/microsoft-reveals-windows-8-upgrade-pric/240003119 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=bw8-improvingsetup>{{cite web|title=Improving the setup experience|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/11/21/improving-the-setup-experience.aspx|work=Building Windows 8|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 18, 2012|archive-date=September 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120910061633/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/11/21/improving-the-setup-experience.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> A similar program, branded as '''Windows 8 Setup''', is used for installations where the user already has a product key.<ref name=supersite-81iso>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 Tip: Download a Windows 8.1 ISO with a Windows 8 Product Key|url=http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-download-windows-81-iso-windows-8-product-key|work=Paul Thurrott's Supersite for Windows|access-date=October 20, 2013|archive-date=October 20, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020175536/http://winsupersite.com/windows-8/windows-81-tip-download-windows-81-iso-windows-8-product-key|url-status=live}}</ref>
Windows 8 implements OEM Activation 3.0, which allows Microsoft to digitally distribute Windows licenses to [[original equipment manufacturer]]s (OEMs). Windows 8 devices store [[product key]]s directly in firmware rather than printed on a Certificate of Authenticity (CoA) sticker. This new system is designed to prevent OEM product keys from being used on computers they are not licensed for, and also allows the installer to automatically detect and accept the product key in the event of re-installation.<ref name=cnet-productkey>{{cite web|last=Whitney|first=Lance|title=Windows 8 moves to BIOS-based product keys|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57554240-292/windows-8-moves-to-bios-based-product-keys/|work=CNET|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]|access-date=November 29, 2012|archive-date=November 29, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129045741/http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-33642_7-57554240-292/windows-8-moves-to-bios-based-product-keys/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=toms-oema3>{{cite web|title=Windows 8 to Feature New OEM Activation Method|url=http://www.tomshardware.com/news/Windows-8-OEM-OA-3.0-Piracy-Genuine-Microsoft,16636.html|website=Tom's Guide|date=August 4, 2012 |publisher=Purch Inc.|access-date=July 8, 2014|archive-date=
Windows 8.1 Update adds a new installation mode known as "WIMBoot", where the [[Windows Imaging Format|WIM image]] that contains the Windows installation is left compressed rather than being extracted, and the system is configured to use files directly from within the system image. This installation method was primarily designed to reduce the footprint of the Windows installation on devices with small amounts of storage. The system image also doubles as the recovery image, speeding up Refresh and Reset operations.<ref name=msdn-wimboot>{{cite web|title=What is Windows Image Boot (WIMBoot)?|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2014/04/10/what-is-windows-image-boot-wimboot.aspx|work=Springboard Series Blog|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=April 11, 2014|archive-date=April 13, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413124550/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/springboard/archive/2014/04/10/what-is-windows-image-boot-wimboot.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> It is only supported in systems with a [[Unified Extensible Firmware Interface]] (UEFI), where Windows is located on a [[solid-state drive]] or [[eMMC]].<ref name=technet-wimbootoverview>{{cite web|title=Windows Image File Boot (WIMBoot) Overview|url=https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn594399.aspx|work=TechNet|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=April 11, 2014|archive-date=April 12, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140412001236/http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/dn594399.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
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Windows 8 defaults to a "Fast startup" mode; when the operating system is shut down, it [[Hibernation (computing)|hibernates]] the [[kernel (operating system)|kernel]], allowing for a faster boot on the subsequent startup.<ref>{{cite web|title=How to, uh, turn Windows 8 off|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57389397-75/how-to-uh-turn-windows-8-off/|website=CNET|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=August 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120823085204/http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57389397-75/how-to-uh-turn-windows-8-off/|url-status=live}}</ref> These improvements are further compounded by using all processor cores during startup by default.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/microsoft-touts-incredible-windows-8-boot-times-140515 | title=Microsoft Touts Incredible Windows 8 Boot Times | access-date=September 9, 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329125702/http://www.winsupersite.com/blog/supersite-blog-39/windows8/microsoft-touts-incredible-windows-8-boot-times-140515 | archive-date=March 29, 2012 | url-status=dead }}</ref> To create a more seamless transition between the [[Power-on self-test]] and Windows startup process, manufacturers' logos can now be shown on the Windows boot screen on compatible systems with [[UEFI]].<ref name=reengineering-boot/>
The Advanced Startup menu now uses a graphical interface with mouse and touch support in place of the text-based menu used by previous versions. As the increased boot speed of devices with UEFI can make it difficult to access it using keyboard shortcuts during boot, the menu can now be launched from within Windows—using either the PC Settings app, holding down Shift while clicking the Restart option in the Power menu, or by using the new "-o" switch on [[shutdown.exe]].<ref name=reengineering-boot>{{cite web|title=Reengineering the Windows boot experience|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/20/reengineering-the-windows-boot-experience.aspx|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=May 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120509201107/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/20/reengineering-the-windows-boot-experience.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=bw8-bootfasterdesign>{{cite web|title=Designing for PCs that boot faster than ever before|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/05/22/designing-for-pcs-that-boot-faster-than-ever-before.aspx|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=September 12, 2012|archive-date=
UEFI firmware can be exposed to Windows via [[class driver]]s. Updated firmware capsules can be distributed as an update to this "[[device drivers|driver]]" in a signed package with an [[INF file]] and security catalog, similarly to those for other devices. When the "driver" is installed, Windows prepares the update to be installed on the next boot, and [[Windows Boot Manager]] renders status information on the device's boot screen.<ref name=ms-uefiplatform>{{cite web|title=Windows UEFI Firmware Update Platform|url=http://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/download/details.aspx?id=38405|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=October 9, 2013|format=[[Microsoft Word|DOCX]]|archive-date=August 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150812073951/http://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/download/details.aspx?id=38405|url-status=live}}</ref>
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Windows 8 includes [[Windows Display Driver Model|WDDM]] 1.2 and [[DirectX Graphics Infrastructure]] (DXGI) 1.2. The [[Desktop Window Manager]] now runs at all times (even on systems with unsupported graphics cards; where DWM now also supports [[software rendering]]), and now also includes support for [[stereoscopy|stereoscopic 3D]] content.<ref name=dwm-alwayson>{{cite web|title=Desktop Window Manager is always on|url=http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848042%28v=vs.85%29.aspx|work=Windows 8 and Windows Server 2012 Compatibility Cookbook|publisher=MSDN|access-date=September 4, 2012|archive-date=July 28, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728004613/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848042(v=vs.85).aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
Other major features include [[preemptive multitasking]] with finer [[granularity#Computing|granularity]] ([[Direct memory access|DMA]] buffer, primitive, triangle, pixel, or instruction-level),<ref>{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh404504 |title=DXGI_Graphics_Preemption_Granularity Enumeration |publisher=Microsoft |work=[[Microsoft Developer Network]] |date=November 16, 2013 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023201730/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh404504 |url-status=live }}</ref> reduced [[memory footprint]], improved resource sharing, and improved timeout detection and recovery. 16-bit color surface formats (565, 5551, 4444) are mandatory in Windows 8, and Direct3D 11 Video supports YUV [[chroma subsampling|4:4:4/4:2:2/4:2:0/4:1:1]] video formats with 8, 10, and 16-bit precision, as well as 4 and 8-bit palettized formats.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb173059 |title=DXGI_FORMAT enumeration |publisher=Microsoft |work=Microsoft Developer Network |date=November 16, 2013 |access-date=February 23, 2015 |archive-date=October 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023201736/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/bb173059 |url-status=live }}</ref> Display-only and render-only WDDM drivers were also supported. Display-only WDDM drivers allow basic 2D-only video adapters and virtual displays to function while contents are rendered by existing renderers or a software rasterizer. Render-only WDDM drivers will render screen contents to specified display processors, commonly seen on laptops with dedicated GPUs. Otherwise, a full graphics WDDM driver will function as both of the display and rendering.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/drivers/display/wddm-in-windows-8 |title=WDDM 1.2 and Windows 8 |publisher=Microsoft |work=[[Microsoft Docs]] |date=December 15, 2021 |access-date=May 31, 2022 |archive-date=March 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220321075957/https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/drivers/display/wddm-in-windows-8 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Windows 8.1 introduces WDDM 1.3<ref name="WDDM1.3">{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn265512%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |title=What's new for Windows 8.1 display drivers (WDDM 1.3) |publisher=Microsoft |access-date=February 21, 2015 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402113112/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/hardware/dn265512%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> and adds support for [[Miracast]], which enables wireless or wired delivery of compressed [[SD video|standard-]] or [[high-definition video]] to or from desktops, tablets, mobile phones, and other devices.<ref name="windows1"/>
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Windows 8 adds support for printer driver architecture version 4. This adds a Metro friendly interface as well as changes the way the architecture was written.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/25/simplifying-printing-in-windows-8.aspx | title=Simplifying printing in Windows 8 | publisher=[[Microsoft]] | work=Building Windows 8 | date=July 25, 2012 | access-date=June 4, 2013 | first=Adrian | last=Lannin | editor-first=Steven | editor-last=Sinofsky | editor-link=Steven Sinofsky | archive-date=May 28, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130528051733/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/07/25/simplifying-printing-in-windows-8.aspx | url-status=live }}</ref>
Windows 8.1 adds support for [[Wi-Fi Direct]] printing,<ref name="windows1"/> [[Near field communication|NFC]] printing,<ref name="windows1"/> and native APIs for [[3D printing]] through the [[XML]]-based [[3D Manufacturing Format]] (3MF).<ref name=engadget-81-3dprinting>{{cite web|title=Windows 8.1 to support 3D printing through native API|url=https://www.engadget.com/2013/06/26/windows-8-1-to-natively-support-3d-printing/|work=Engadget|date=June 26, 2013 |access-date=August 6, 2013|archive-date=August 25, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130825201936/http://www.engadget.com/2013/06/26/windows-8-1-to-natively-support-3d-printing/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=windowsex-3dprinting81>{{cite web|title=3D Printing Support in Windows 8.1 Explained|url=http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|work=Extreme Windows|publisher=Microsoft|access-date=August 22, 2013|archive-date=August 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822184811/http://blogs.windows.com/windows/b/extremewindows/archive/2013/08/22/3d-printing-support-in-windows-8-1-explained.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Windows PowerShell===
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[[File:Windows To Go USB Drive.png|thumb|Bootable [[Windows To Go]] USB flash drive]]
{{Main|Windows To Go}}
Windows To Go is a feature exclusive to the Enterprise version of Windows 8 which allows an organization to provision [[Live USB|bootable USB flash drive]]s with a Windows installation on them, allowing users to access their [[Standard Operating Environment|managed environment]] on any compatible PC.<ref>{{cite magazine |author=Gregg Keizer |url=http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9220004/Windows_8_will_run_from_USB_thumb_drive?taxonomyId=125 |title=Windows 8 will run from USB thumb drive |magazine=Computerworld |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012085732/http://www.computerworld.com/s/article/9220004/Windows_8_will_run_from_USB_thumb_drive?taxonomyId=125 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/232480/scitech/windows-8-fits-on-a-thumb-drive |title=Windows 8 fits on a thumb drive - Technology - GMA News On-line - Latest Philippine News |date=September 15, 2011 |publisher=Gmanews.tv |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=April 2, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402093419/http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/232480/scitech/windows-8-fits-on-a-thumb-drive |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-8-Running-on-a-USB-Windows-To-Go-221470.shtml |title=Windows 8 Running on a USB – Windows To Go - Softpedia |date=September 13, 2011 |publisher=News.softpedia.com |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=October 4, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111004135900/http://news.softpedia.com/news/Windows-8-Running-on-a-USB-Windows-To-Go-221470.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/windows-8-to-feature-usb-runnable-portable-workspaces-sales-of/ |title=Windows 8 to feature USB-runnable Portable Workspaces, sales of 16GB thumb drives set to soar |publisher=Engadget |date=April 15, 2011 |access-date=September 16, 2011 |archive-date=August 28, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110828165858/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/15/windows-8-to-feature-usb-runnable-portable-workspaces-sales-of |url-status=live }}</ref> Windows 8.1 updates this feature to enable booting from a USB composite device with a storage and a smart card function.<ref name="Security">{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/bg182886.aspx |title=Security |publisher=Microsoft |work=Windows Dev Center |access-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324225208/https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/apps/bg182886.aspx |archive-date=March 24, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
==Maintenance==
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===Device encryption===
On Windows RT, logging in with a Microsoft account automatically activates passive device encryption, a feature-limited version of [[BitLocker Drive Encryption|BitLocker]] which seamlessly encrypts the contents of mobile devices to protect their contents. On Windows 8.1, device encryption is similarly available for x86-based Windows devices, automatically encrypting user data as soon as the operating system is configured. When a user signs in with a Microsoft account or on a supported Active Directory network, a recovery key is generated and saved directly to the user's account. Unlike BitLocker, device encryption on x86-based devices requires that the device meet the [[Connected Standby]] specifications (which among other requirements, requires that the device use [[solid
===Device lockdown===
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Of the four, secure boot is not a native feature of Windows 8; it is part of [[Unified Extensible Firmware Interface|UEFI]]. At startup, the UEFI firmware checks the validity of a [[digital signature]] present in the Windows Boot Loader (bootmgfw.efi), which is signed with Microsoft's public key. This signature check happens every time the computer is booted and prevents malware from infecting the system before the operating system loads.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx |title=Protecting the pre-OS environment with UEFI |website=[[Microsoft Developer Network#Blogs|blogs.msdn.com]] |last=Sinofsky |first=Steven |date=22 September 2011 |access-date=19 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120802042640/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2011/09/22/protecting-the-pre-os-environment-with-uefi.aspx |archive-date=August 2, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> The UEFI firmware will only allow signatures from keys that has been enrolled into its database, and, prior to Windows 8 release, Microsoft announced that certified computers had to ship with the Microsoft's public key enrolled and with secure boot enabled by default. However, following the announcement, the company was accused by critics and free and open-source software advocates (including the [[Free Software Foundation]]) of trying to use the secure boot to [[Vendor lock-in|hinder or outright prevent]] the installation of alternative operating systems such as Linux. Microsoft denied that the secure boot requirement was intended to serve as a form of lock-in, and clarified that [[x86]] certified systems (but not [[ARM architecture|ARM]] systems) must allow secure boot to enter custom mode or be disabled.<ref>{{Cite web|url = https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-will-complicate-linux-installs/|title = Windows 8 secure boot could complicate Linux installs|date = 21 September 2011|website = [[Ars Technica|www.arstechnica.com]]|last = Brodkin|first = Jon|access-date = 19 December 2020|archive-date = November 12, 2020|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201112035225/https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2011/09/windows-8-secure-boot-will-complicate-linux-installs/|url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url = https://www.pcworld.com/article/248342/windows_8_secure_boot_the_controversy_continues.html|title = Windows 8 Secure Boot: The Controversy Continues|date = January 18, 2012|website = [[PC World]]|publisher = [[International Data Group|IDG]]|last = Noyes|first = Katherine|access-date = September 17, 2017|archive-date = October 5, 2012|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121005023808/http://www.pcworld.com/article/248342/windows_8_secure_boot_the_controversy_continues.html|url-status = live}}</ref>
Trusted Boot is a feature of Windows boot loader and ensures the integrity of all Microsoft components loaded into memory, including ELAM, which loads last. ELAM ensures that all third-party boot drivers are trustworthy; they are not loaded if ELAM check fails. ELAM can use either Windows Defender or a third-party compatible antivirus.<ref name=":0" /> During the 2011 [[Build (developer conference)|Build conference]] in [[Anaheim, California]], Microsoft showed a Windows 8 machine that can prevent an infected [[USB flash memory]] from compromising the boot process.<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.cnet.com/news/windows-8-to-offer-built-in-malware-protection/|title = Windows 8 to offer built-in malware protection|date = September 15, 2011|website = [[CNET]]|publisher = [[CBS Interactive]]|last = Whitney|first = Lance|access-date = February 16, 2015|archive-date = August 5, 2014|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140805102618/http://www.cnet.com/news/windows-8-to-offer-built-in-malware-protection/|url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url =
Measured Boot can attest to the state of a client machine by sending details about its configuration to a remote machine. The feature relies on the attestation feature of the [[Trusted Platform Module]] and is designed to verify the boot integrity of the client.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848050%28v=vs.85%29.aspx |title=Measured Boot |website=[[Microsoft Developer Network|msdn.microsoft.com]] |access-date=19 December 2020 |date=6 September 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141228110849/http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/windows/desktop/hh848050(v=vs.85).aspx |archive-date=December 28, 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
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==Virtualization==
[[Hyper-V]], a [[Hypervisor#Classification|native hypervisor]] previously offered only in [[Windows Server]], is included in Windows 8 Pro, replacing [[Windows Virtual PC]], a [[Hypervisor#Classification|hosted hypervisor]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-20103376-75/windows-8-to-include-hyper-v-virtualization/ |title=Microsoft announces Hyper-V in Windows 8 |last=Whitney |first=Lance |date=September 8, 2011 |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |work=[[CNET]] |access-date=April 23, 2015 |archive-date=February 24, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120224110328/http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-20103376-75/windows-8-to-include-hyper-v-virtualization/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="ZDNet1">{{cite web |url=http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-here-are-the-four-editions-of-windows-8/12461 |title=Microsoft: Here are the four editions of Windows 8 |last=Foley |first=Mary Jo |author-link=Mary Jo Foley |date=April 16, 2012 |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |work=[[ZDNet]] |access-date=April 23, 2015 |archive-date=November 3, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141103193505/http://www.zdnet.com/blog/microsoft/microsoft-here-are-the-four-editions-of-windows-8/12461 |url-status=
== Storage ==
=== Storage Spaces ===
Storage Spaces is a [[storage virtualization]] technology which succeeds [[Logical Disk Manager]] and allows the organization of physical disks into logical volumes similar to [[Logical Volume Manager (Linux)]], [[RAID0]], [[RAID1]] or [[RAID5]], but at a higher abstraction level.<ref name="B8_storage_spaces">{{cite web|last=Sinofsky|first=Steven |title=Virtualizing storage for scale, resiliency, and efficiency|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/05/virtualizing-storage-for-scale-resiliency-and-efficiency.aspx
A storage space behaves like a physical disk to the user, with [[thin provisioning]] of available disk space. The spaces are organized within a storage pool, i.e. a collection of physical disks, that can span multiple disks of different sizes, performance or technology (USB, SATA, SAS). The process of adding new disks or replacing failed or older disks is fully automatic, but can be controlled with [[PowerShell]] commands. The same storage pool can host multiple storage spaces. Storage Spaces have built-in resiliency from disk failures, which is achieved by either [[disk mirroring]] or [[data striping|striping]] with [[Parity bit|parity]] across the physical disks. Each storage pool on the [[ReFS]] filesystem is limited to 4 PB (4096 TB), but there are no limits on the total number of storage pools or the number of storage spaces within a pool.<ref name="B8_ReFS">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/16/building-the-next-generation-file-system-for-windows-refs.aspx|title=Building the next generation file system for Windows: ReFS|publisher=Building Windows 8 Blog|date=January 16, 2012|access-date=January 17, 2012|archive-date=May 26, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526085329/http://blogs.msdn.com/b/b8/archive/2012/01/16/building-the-next-generation-file-system-for-windows-refs.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>
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Windows 8.1 also introduces a manual TRIM function via [[Microsoft Drive Optimizer]] which can perform an on-demand user-requested TRIM operation on internal and external SSDs. Windows 7 only had automatic TRIM for internal SATA SSDs built into system operations such as Delete, Format, Diskpart etc.
However, Windows 8.1 built-in NVMe driver does not support NVMe passthrough protocol. Support for NVMe passthrough protocol was added in Windows 10.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NVMe_Support – smartmontools |url=https://www.smartmontools.org/wiki/NVMe_Support }}</ref>
==See also==
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