Windows 8.1 and Consumer Services

Windows 8.1 can use a variety of Microsoft-hosted online services intended for consumers, including SkyDrive, the Windows Store, and the Bing Web search service. These services deliver features that can make the OS appealing to end users and differentiate it from Windows 7. However, businesses interested in deploying Windows 8.1 should make sure that they are familiar with these features and the Microsoft services they rely on to ensure that Windows 8.1 devices are well managed and don’t pose risks when used within the organization. In some cases, Windows Group Policy (GP) technologies can be used to reduce these risks.

Windows Store and Apps

Windows 8.1 relies on the Windows Store, a Microsoft-curated marketplace introduced with Windows 8 and Windows RT, where applications (apps) are available from Microsoft and third parties for purchase, trial, or free download. A Microsoft account is used to purchase the apps on Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1 devices. The Microsoft account is a Microsoft-hosted directory service that manages information about users of Microsoft’s online services and the Windows Store on Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1.