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This video will teach you how to access the desktop in Windows 8.1, and how to configure
your computer to load directly to the desktop, if that's easier for you.
How to Switch Between Metro User Interface and Desktop Mode
There are two options to access the Windows 8.1 desktop. The first option is as simple
as clicking on the "Windows Key" on your keyboard to switch between the Metro User Interface
and the standard desktop.
The second option involves directing the mouse cursor to the desktop tile on the Apps screen.
Either of these options will permit you to view the Windows 8.1 desktop.
How to Setup Windows 8.1 to Boot Directly to the Desktop
Booting Windows 8.1 straight to the desktop requires you to access the Taskbar and Navigation
personalize window. Click on the "Windows Key" on your keyboard, or the Desktop tile
on the Apps screen, to access the Desktop. Right-click and choose Personalize. Click
on the Taskbar and Navigation link on the bottom left hand corner of the Personalization
screen. Click on the Navigation tab at the top of the window. Check the option titled
"Go to the desktop instead of Start when I sign in." Click Apply and then Ok. Reboot
the computer to test if this change is applied.