Windows 8.1
Note: In order to continue to receive security updates, you MUST update to 8.1. This post contains a nice collection of links regarding this.
Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 update 1 was released in April 2014. You can upgrade from win8 to 8.1u1 for free through Windows Update. All the resources from Windows 8 are still there but 8.1u1 incorporates feedback and improves the keyboard/mouse experience.
Windows 8.1 falls under the same lifecycle support as Windows 8. It will reach the end of mainstream support Jan 9, 2018 and the end of extended support Jan 10 2023.
Windows 8.1 resource links:
For a list of changes over 8 see:
Exploring Windows 8.1 Update – Start Screen, Desktop and Other Enhancements
Windows 8.1 Deployment Jump Start
Windows 8.1 includes Client Hyper-V to allow you to run multiple operating systems on your computer
Windows 8
Windows 8 was released to the retail market October 2012. In addition to the improvements and updates to the tradition desktop experience, Windows 8 introduced a new Start Screen and a new interface, initially called Metro now referred to as the Modern UI. The new interface is built on the Windows RT library which is cross platform compatible with ARM chips. This allows Windows Store apps to be purchased and run on either x86/64 systems and ARM based tablets consistently.
In order to continue receiving support, you MUST update to Windows 8.1. See life cycle link above.
Free Windows 8 Jump Start training resources for IT Professionals from Microsoft.
Apps Troubleshooter link (scroll to bottom of page)
The Upgrade Asssistant will test your existing computer and inform you of any issues you might face in upgrading to Win8.
New/Updated features in Windows 8 Standard/Professional/Enterprise
Improved multi-monitor and taskbar support
Improved Task Manager capabilities
IE 10 with spell check and SmartScreen Filter
Client HyperV virtualization (Windows 8 Professional/Enterprise) Supports Windows and Linux guests
Windows Explorer can now mount ISO's and VHD's
Improved copy behavior
Built in malware defenses: Windows Defender and SmartScreen
PowerShell v3
Optional Live account integration
Family Safety is now built in
Faster boot times
Access to Windows Store Apps
Free included apps (People, Mail, Messenger, SkyDrive, Photos, BING, Music, etc.)
Additional 3rd party apps for free or purchase
Windows Store Apps will run on Windows 8 Std/Pro and Windows RT tablets
Built in subset of Flash
Note: Enterprise is only available to Volume License customer.
Windows RT
Windows RT is only available from OEM ARM tablet manufacturers. This is Microsoft's iPad competitor and is not compatible with x86/64 apps on the standard/professional/enterprise versions. It comes with longer battery life and the Home/Office version of Microsoft Office included. Office runs on a desktop on the tablets as well as Internet Explorer. Internet Explorer also has a separate Windows 8 UI mode version run in tablet full screen mode by default.
The Start Menu has been replaced by the Start Screen
Microsoft has announced that a version of the Start Menu will return in a later update
In the meantime, you can embrace change, or see this article that covers most of your options for third party add on.
Media
If you purchased an online upgrade you can download the ISO at that time
If you need to reinstall later, you can use the link you'll get in the email receipt after your payment is processed
How to upgrade to Windows 8 with only a product key
The Windows 7 USB/DVD download tool works on the Windows 8 ISO
Microsoft has renamed their OEM version to 'OEM System Builder' and modified the license terms. For details see Microsoft's FAQ. Do a search for "Windows 8 System Builder' on Amazon, New Egg or your preferred vender for a media kit.
Downgrade Rights
In some situations you may have downgrade rights. Consult the following links to review if your circumstances apply