Windows 8 is a big change over previous versions of Windows. It combines two quite different areas:
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A desktop, similar to previous versions of Windows 7.
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A new Windows 8 interface which is designed to be easy to use with a touch screen.
Although the two areas look and act quite differently, both can be used with a keyboard, mouse or touch screen.
In this way, Microsoft hope that Windows 8 will be used both on traditional desktop and laptop computers, and also new tablet computers and smartphones.
There are three versions of Windows 8 available for purchase:
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Windows 8 is aimed at home users.
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Windows 8 Pro is aimed at business users, and adds encryption and remote connection.
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Windows RT is aimed at tablet users, and adds encryption and a special version of Office 2013. It doesn't allow desktop apps to be installed.
Find out more about particular areas of Windows 8: