Make the most of your new Windows^® 8.1 notebook, desktop computer, or tablet–without becoming a technical expert! This book is the fastest way to get comfortable, get productive, get online, get started with social networking, make more connections, and have more fun!

Even if you’ve never used a Windows computer before, this book shows you how to do what you want, one incredibly clear and easy step at a time. Computer basics have never, ever been this simple!

Who knew how simple using computers could be?

This is today’s best beginner’s guide to using your computer or tablet with the new Windows 8.1 operating system…simple, practical instructions for doing everything you really want to do! Here’s a small sample of what you’ll learn:

•   Set up Windows 8.1 and get online fast

•   Use the new Windows 8.1 Modern interface

•   Get started with social networking on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn

•   Use Windows 8.1’s built-in apps–and find great new apps in the Windows Store

•   Connect printers and external storage, and set up automatic file backup

•   Create a home network in just minutes

•   Go online to shop, sell your stuff, manage your money, and do research

•   Get your office work done fast

•   Organize, view, and share photos

•   Play music using Windows 8.1, iTunes, or streaming music services

•   Watch TV shows and movies online

•   Protect yourself against viruses, spyware, and spam

•   Keep your system running reliably at top speed

I. Understanding Computers and Similar Devices
1. How Personal Computers Work
2. Setting Up and Using a Desktop Computer
3. Setting Up and Using a Notebook or Tablet Computer
II. Using Windows
4. Getting to Know Windows 8.1
5. Using the New Windows 8.1 Interface
6. Using the Traditional Windows Desktop
7. Working with Files, Folders, and Other Storage
III. Setting Up the Rest of Your System
8. Connecting Other Devices to Your PC – and Your PC to Other Devices
9. Working with Printers
10. Adding Storage and Backup
11. Setting Up a Home Network
IV. Using the Internet
12. Connecting to the Internet -- at Home and On the Road
13. Using Internet Explorer to Surf the Web
14. Searching and Researching Online
15. Shopping and Selling Online
V. Communicating Online
16. Sending and Receiving Email
17. Social Networking with Facebook
18. More Social Networking with Pinterest, Google+, LinkedIn, and Twitter
19. Managing Your Social Activity (and Contacts) in Windows
20. Video Chatting with Friends and Family
VI. Working with Apps
21. Understanding and Using Windows Apps
22. Exploring Windows 8.1’s Built-In Apps
23. Finding and Installing New Apps
VII. Doing Fun and Useful Stuff with Your PC
24. Doing Office Work
25. Staying Organized
26. Viewing and Sharing Digital Photos
27. Playing Music
28. Watching Movies, TV Shows, and Other Videos
29. Playing Games
VIII. Keeping Your System Up and Running
30. Protecting Your PC from Computer Attacks, Malware, and Spam
31. Performing Preventive Maintenance
32. Dealing with Common Problems