Windows 8.1 is a popular operating system that introduced a new and innovative Start screen. However, for some users, finding programs on this new interface can be a challenge. In this blog post, we will explore various methods to help you easily locate and access programs on your Windows 8.1 computer. Whether you are a novice user or a seasoned Windows expert, this guide will provide you with valuable insights on how to navigate the interface and locate your favorite applications.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Finding Programs on Windows 8.1
Windows 8.1 brought about a significant change in the user interface with the introduction of the Start screen. Unlike previous versions of Windows, the Start screen features live tiles and a new layout, making it a bit challenging for users to find programs quickly. The traditional Start menu was replaced with the Start screen, which requires a different approach for program discovery.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before diving into the various methods to find programs on Windows 8.1, there are a few things you should prepare for. Firstly, ensure that you have a basic understanding of the Windows 8.1 operating system and its user interface. Familiarize yourself with the Start screen and the different types of tiles it offers.
Additionally, ensure that you have a list of important programs or applications that you frequently use. This list will come in handy as we explore different methods to find programs on Windows 8.1. Now let’s jump into the methods!
Method 1: Pinning Programs to the Start Screen
One of the easiest ways to find programs on Windows 8.1 is by pinning them to the Start screen. This method allows you to create shortcuts for your favorite programs and access them directly from the Start screen. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Press the Windows key on your keyboard or swipe from the right edge of the screen to open the Charms bar. Select the "Search" option from the list.
Step 2: In the search bar, type the name of the program you want to pin to the Start screen. As you type, you will see search results appearing on the left side of the screen.
Step 3: Right-click or long-press on the program you want to pin, and a context menu will appear at the bottom of the screen. Select the "Pin to Start" option.
Step 4: The program will now appear as a live tile on the Start screen, allowing you to access it quickly. You can move the tile around, resize it, or group it with similar tiles for easy organization.
Pros:
– Quick access to frequently used programs.
– Easy to customize and organize tiles on the Start screen.
– Live tiles provide real-time updates and information.
Cons:
– Limited space on the Start screen, which may require scrolling to find all pinned programs.
– Some users may find the live tiles distracting.
Method 2: Searching from the Start Screen
If you prefer not to pin all your programs to the Start screen, you can use the built-in search feature to find programs on Windows 8.1. The search feature allows you to quickly find programs by typing their names. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Go to the Start screen by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard or clicking on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
Step 2: Start typing the name of the program you want to find. As you type, the search results will appear on the right side of the screen.
Step 3: Once you see the program you are looking for in the search results, you can click or tap on it to open it directly.
Pros:
– Quick and easy way to find programs by name.
– Works well for users who have a large number of installed applications.
Cons:
– Requires accurate typing and knowledge of the program’s name.
– May generate a long list of search results if the program name is generic.
Method 3: Using the All Apps View
If you prefer a more organized view of all your installed programs, you can use the All Apps view. This view lists all the applications installed on your Windows 8.1 computer, making it easier to browse and locate specific programs. Here’s how you can access the All Apps view:
Step 1: Go to the Start screen by pressing the Windows key on your keyboard or clicking on the Start button in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
Step 2: In the bottom-left corner of the Start screen, click or tap on the down arrow icon. This will take you to the All Apps view.
Step 3: Scroll horizontally to browse through all the installed applications. You can also use the search bar at the top of the screen to search for specific programs by name.
Step 4: Once you find the program you are looking for, you can click or tap on it to open it.
Pros:
– Provides a comprehensive view of all installed applications.
– Makes it easier to browse and locate specific programs.
Cons:
– Requires scrolling through a potentially long list of applications.
– May be time-consuming for users with a large number of installed programs.
Method 4: Using File Explorer
If you are unable to find a program using the methods mentioned above, you can try locating it using File Explorer. File Explorer gives you access to the file system of your Windows 8.1 computer, allowing you to navigate through folders and locate program executable files. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Press the Windows key + E on your keyboard to open File Explorer.
Step 2: In the left sidebar, navigate to the "This PC" or "Computer" section.
Step 3: Scroll down and open the "Local Disk (C:)" or the drive where your operating system is installed.
Step 4: Navigate to the "Program Files" or "Program Files (x86)" folder depending on your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Step 5: Inside the program files folder, you will find folders for each installed program. Locate the folder for the program you are looking for and open it.
Step 6: Look for the program’s executable file, usually with a ".exe" extension. Double-clicking on the executable file will launch the program.
Pros:
– Provides access to the file system and allows you to locate program files manually.
– Useful when programs are not listed in the Start screen or All Apps view.
Cons:
– Requires knowledge of the program’s folder structure and executable files.
– May not be suitable for novice users.
Why Can’t I Find Programs on Windows 8.1?
1. The program is not installed: The most obvious reason for not finding a program is that it is not installed on your computer. Ensure that you have installed the program before attempting to find it.
2. The program is not compatible with Windows 8.1: Some programs may not be compatible with the Windows 8.1 operating system. Check the program’s system requirements to ensure compatibility.
3. The program is hidden or blocked: Windows 8.1 has security features that can hide or block certain programs. Check your user account settings or firewall settings to ensure that the program is not hidden or blocked.
4. The program is installed in a non-standard location: Some programs allow you to choose a custom installation location. If you cannot find a program in the default program files folders, it might be installed in a different directory.
To fix these issues, make sure the program is installed correctly, update your operating system to the latest version, and adjust any security settings that may be blocking the program.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you find programs on Windows 8.1:
1. Customize the Start screen: You can rearrange tiles, resize them, and group them to create a personalized Start screen that suits your needs. Take advantage of these customization options to make it easier to find your favorite programs.
2. Create shortcuts on the desktop: If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can create shortcuts for your favorite programs on the desktop. Right-click on the program’s icon in the All Apps view and select "Create shortcut." The shortcut will appear on your desktop for quick access.
3. Use the keyboard: If you are a keyboard enthusiast, you can use keyboard shortcuts to navigate and find programs. Pressing the Windows key and typing the program’s name is one such keyboard shortcut.
5 FAQs about Finding Programs on Windows 8.1
Q1: How can I uninstall programs on Windows 8.1?
A: To uninstall programs on Windows 8.1, open the Control Panel from the Start screen or the Charms bar and select "Uninstall a program." From the list of installed programs, select the program you want to uninstall and click on the "Uninstall" button.
Q2: Can I install programs from sources other than the Windows Store?
A: Yes, you can install programs from sources other than the Windows Store. Windows 8.1 allows you to install programs from the internet or using installation files stored on your computer. However, be cautious when installing programs from unknown or untrusted sources to avoid potential security risks.
Q3: How can I organize the All Apps view?
A: To organize the All Apps view, you can right-click on an application’s tile and select "Pin to Start" to pin it to the Start screen. You can also drag and drop tiles to rearrange them or create groups by dragging one tile on top of another.
Q4: Can I search for programs using voice commands?
A: Yes, Windows 8.1 supports voice commands for searching. Simply activate the voice search feature by saying "Hey Cortana" or clicking on the microphone icon in the search bar, and then speak the name of the program you want to find.
Q5: Can I revert back to the traditional Start menu?
A: Unfortunately, Windows 8.1 does not offer a built-in option to revert back to the traditional Start menu. However, there are third-party applications available that can bring back the classic Start menu if desired.
In Conclusion
Finding programs on Windows 8.1 may seem challenging at first, but with the methods and tips outlined in this blog post, you should be able to locate your favorite applications easily. Whether you prefer pinning programs to the Start screen, using the built-in search feature, browsing the All Apps view, or exploring through File Explorer, Windows 8.1 offers multiple ways to help you find programs efficiently. Experiment with different methods and customize your Start screen to create a personalized and productive Windows 8.1 experience.