Boot straight to the desktop in Windows 8.1

Let’s face it, the Windows 8/8.1 Start screen has not exactly been universally applauded by computer users.

Thankfully, if you use Windows 8.1, there’s a simple way to make your computer boot directly to the desktop – here’s how to do it.

First, when you’re at the Start screen, type the word “taskbar”. One of the results that appear should be called “Taskbar and Navigation”. Click on this result.

A window should appear titled “Taskbar and Navigation properties”. Click on the Navigation tab.

The fourth option down, under the subheading “Start screen”, should read “When I sign in or close all apps on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start”. Click on the checkbox next to this option.

Finally, click on OK. The next time you boot your computer or close a full-screen app, you will be returned by default to your desktop.