By default, Windows 8 boots to the Windows Start screen instead of the desktop. To boot to the desktop instead of the Start screen, follow the steps below.

  • If you haven’t already done so, download and install Windows 8.1.

  • Right-click an empty spot of the Taskbar and select Properties.

  • In the Taskbar and Navigation properties window, click the Navigation tab.

  • In the Navigation tab, check When I sign in or close all apps on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start.

If you have a Start menu in Windows 8, this update has already been installed.

  • Click Ok.
  • How to enable the Start screen in Windows 10.
  • See our desktop definition for further information and related links.
  • Microsoft Windows 8 help and support.