Windows 8 Pro

Better for Businesses

By Erica Rascón on Nov 6, 2013 in Technology

According to NotebookReview.com, Windows 8 is receiving a higher approval rating than Apple and Android operating systems. Based upon consumer feedback, of roughly 10,500 comparisons between the iOS 7 and Windows 8, 63 percent favored Windows. Of nearly 7,300 comparisons to the Android OS, almost all favored Windows 8. If you haven’t caught up on what’s new, now is the time.

Windows 8 has made the upgrades that one would expect: 4th generation Intel® Core™ and Intel® Atom™ processors that deliver speed without bulk; the operating system is compatible with the new 8” tablet which offers mobile computing at its best; and the system syncs across several devices making it easier for professionals to stay organized on the go. And there are plenty of nice touches, such as a revamped touch keyboard and  various tile sizes to help us visual learners. Users can now control some apps, such as media players and Skype, from the lock screen.

The pro system comes with its own benefits. It caters to multitaskers, providing improved multi-monitor support and easy access tools. There are also additional upgrades that are worth their weight in gold.

Security

Most of us remember when Windows became synonymous with viruses. The company aims to change that, boldly stating that “Windows 8 is 21 times more secure than Windows XP and 6 times more secure than Windows 7.”

For starters, Windows 8 Pro now has Trusted Boot, which initiates anti-malware software at startup before any third-party drivers or apps. Even when employees click an unsavory banner, it will be more difficult for malware to take hold of your system.

Windows 8 Pro has also jumped on the fingerprint credentials express train, helping to keep your sensitive information secure from guests and unauthorized users.

Pro helps you gain control of your business content on company and employee personal devices. Remotely remove or erase business content from devices. This is an excellent tool to have in case a company device is lost, stolen, or compromised.

Business Focused

Professional love working smarter, not harder. Windows 8 Pro lets you find information fast by simultaneously searching your Skydrive, PC, and the internet via Bing smart search.

The software also makes it easier for devices to serve multiple functions, cutting equipment costs. Company devices can serves as customer kiosks thanks to the customizable Assigned Access features. Customers can open specific apps and files though access remains limited to more sensitive files and programs.

Windows 8 makes marketing a bit easier. The Nokia Lumia 1020 (above left) constantly receives high rankings as the world’s best camera phone. The 41 megapixel camera touts a 1,280×768-pixel resolution on a  4.5-inch display. Translation? Create stunning image galleries and videos of properties on the spot. Instantly save the media to Skydrive for later or post it to social media and your website with the touch of a button. Users may also enjoy high-quality video conferencing.

Considerations

Windows 8 Pro has proven to be an excellent investment for the pricetag, particularly when compared to the costs of other operating systems. As with any new software, there are a few kinks that still need ironing out.

Windows 8 Pro glories in its ability to stay consistent across devices. The problem, though, is that once you update to Windows 8 you’ll need to update many other things–printers, faxes, displays, Bluetooth for example–to devices that are compatible with the new software. In some cases, additional drivers will make these devices compatible with Windows 8. When drivers aren’t available, you may face replacements. This can be costly and seemingly unnecessary for offices who have XP and Windows 7-worthy devices that are functioning just fine.

Your screen resolution will determine if certain apps open. A resolution of 1280-by-800 or higher is recommended. That’s quite average today but may require some adjusting on netbooks and older computers. There are also some apps that simply don’t work yet; 8.1 has fixed some compatibility issues and that list is getting smaller each week.