I purchased a new laptop with Windows 8 and am getting along well. It is different but one just has to be patient and adjust. I use Google whenever I have a problem and have been able to find an answer in most instances. Tonight I got my screen turned at a 90 degree angle and had to figure out how to get it back. I used Google to search for my answer and found a way to straighten it out quick and easy. If you want to change the background on your screen go into desktop, control panel, and change desktop background. Choose what you want and be sure to save the changes. You can apply patterns, solid color, or some of your own pictures and can use the entire screen or just the center portion so it will not cover your icons. You can also change the color of the screen that surrounds the pattern or picture that you have chosen. I also downloaded Window 8.1. I had to re-enter some of my passwords and change the color of my background, etc. but no other problems. There is a book called "Windows 8 for Dummies" and I was told it could be downloaded to my computer but I find that Google works great when I have a question that I can not answer. Just make sure you specify Windows 8 in your search. Don't give up on finding an answer when you have a problem. I too had a problem figuring out how to print but I did a Google search and found the answer. I just keep learning.