So when you set up Windows 10 for the first time, sign in with an existing Microsoft ID or create a new one.īefore we get started, a few words about some terminology you'll need to know. Without a Microsoft ID, you won't be able to use a number of Windows 10 apps or sync settings among multiple devices. Note: If you want to get the most out of Windows 10, you'll have to use a Microsoft ID as your user account. This story is based on the Windows 10 October 2020 Update, (version 20H2), so the features that are described here and the screenshots you see may differ from what you see if you have an older version of Windows 10. Keep in mind that there have been 10 major updates to Windows 10 since its initial release in July 2015. I'll cover everything you need to know, and I've also provided quick-reference charts listing useful keyboard shortcuts, touchscreen gestures and touchpad gestures. Whether you've upgraded to Windows 10 from an earlier version of Windows or if you've got it on a new PC, this cheat sheet will get you up to speed on it. Also see our printable PDF of Windows 10 gestures and shortcuts. Share this story: IT pros, we hope you’ll pass this guide on to your users to show them the Windows 10 ropes.

It undoes the damage wrought by Windows 8, including eliminating the awkward Charms bar and bringing back the long-mourned Start menu.Ī lot more has changed from previous versions as well, with a default Chromium-based browser called Edge, the introduction of the Cortana digital assistant, links to Microsoft’s cloud-based OneDrive cloud storage service, and plenty more. It's a shape-shifter that changes its interface depending upon whether you're using a traditional computer or a touch-based one. Windows 10 is the best operating system that's come along from Microsoft in a long time.

Windows 10 all apps button