Windows 7, only better
Windows 8 is built on the rock-solid foundation of Windows 7, but it’s been improved on all fronts. You can install Windows 8 on the same hardware that powers Windows Vista and Windows 7, and you’ll love how it works on new devices, too. Windows 8 was designed with Windows 7 apps in mind, because you probably have older apps you need to use.
In addition to the new look of the Start Screen, Windows 8 incorporates the desktop that you’re familiar with. Think of the desktop as one of the many apps you can run in Windows 8. In the desktop, you’ll see all the settings, devices, and features you used in Windows 7—and you can run the desktop apps you ran in Windows 7, too.
Cloud-connected with your Microsoft account
Sign in to your Windows 8 device with your Microsoft account and you’re immediately connected to the people, files, and settings you care about. Your PC comes to life with all the things that make Windows yours, including your Start page, themes, language preferences, browsing history, and browser favorites. You can connect your favorite services to your Microsoft account, too, like Hotmail, Messenger, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and more. And you can immediately get to your photos, docs, and other files, whether they’re on SkyDrive, Facebook, Flickr, or other services.
It's all about the apps
In the Windows Store, you can search for or browse great apps, all grouped in easy-to-find categories. We highlight great apps for you and provide quick access to frequently downloaded apps. You can also see how other people have rated apps. You’ll always know what’s interesting, new, and popular. You won’t have to worry about buying something you don’t want because you can try before you buy, if the app supports it. If you try an app and like it, you can buy it and continue using the full app with no interruption. You won’t waste time or lose your place.
Upgrading to Windows 8
If your PC is running Windows 7, your files, programs and settings will easily transfer to Windows 8 Pro. If your PC is running Windows XP or Windows Vista, you will need to reinstall your apps. Some features such as touch may require a new PC. To check compatibility, visit your PC manufacturer’s website and check out www.windows.com/upgrade to run the Upgrade Assistant to check for compatibility and get more details on system requirements.
If you are looking to purchase Windows 7, please visit our Windows 7 products.
1GHz or faster processor
Required Memory
2 GB RAM
Required Hard Disk Space
20 GB available disk space
Required Display
1366 x 768 screen resolution
Required Connectivity
Internet access (fees may apply)
Graphics hardware acceleration requires a DirectX 9 graphics card with WDDM driver
Additional System Requirements
Microsoft account required for some features. Watching DVDs requires separate playback software. Windows Media Center license sold separately.
Additional requirements to use certain features: Internet access (fees may apply). Depending on resolution, video playback may require additional memory and advanced graphics hardware. For some Windows Media Center functionality, a TV tuner and additional hardware may be required. Windows Touch and Tablet PCs require specific hardware. HomeGroup requires a network and PCs running Windows 7. DVD/CD authoring requires a compatible optical drive. Music and sound require audio output. Product functionality and graphics may vary based on your system configuration. Some features may require advanced or additional hardware.
