I split my days between Windows and OS X. Sometimes I feel like a child whose parents got divorced and I have the responsibility of pleasing them both. At the same time I am the child who’s pampered by the parents who try to make up for their separation. For the tech lover in me, this situation is ideal: I don’t get bored and still manage to discover new features in both OS’, especially with the fierce competition between Microsoft and Apple. The general philosophy is clearly consistence across operating systems. Microsoft does it by offering the same OS on desktop PCs and mobile devices, while Apple’s strategy is the cohabitation of two operating systems (iOS and OS X) that share gestures and some UI consistencies so that it results in a consistent experience for the customer. After last year’s not very successful attempt of re-imagining the look and feel of Windows by adding the “touch”, but overlooking the responsiveness between devices (desktop, phone, tablet), Microsoft released the Windows 8.1 version through which it tries to calm down some of the critics. It reintroduced the Start button and included the ability to skip the Start screen and boot directly to the desktop; the colorful tiled look of the screen is ideal for tablets, but traditionalists wanted the classic desktop interface. Windows 8 is Microsoft’s attempt to create an OS that is as operational on traditional PCs and on mobile touch-screens. The idea behind the development of the dual interface is for Microsoft to gain market share in tablets  while preserving Windows’ longtime dominance of the desktop-PC arena. However, despite the aggressive marketing campaign, the software gained just 8.02 percent of the worldwide market, much behind Windows XP at 31.42 percent and Windows 7 at 46.39...

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...