It is still possible to access the original style Windows Desktop if needed by clicking the Desktop tile on the start screen

 

 

This will take you to the familiar desktop screen that you are used to seeing with previous versions of Windows

 

All programs not designed specifically for Windows 8 will still run in this desktop mode

 

 

Boot To Desktop

If you prefer to boot to the desktop when you start Windows instead of the new Start screen, then you can do so as follows:-

N.B. If you are using a device without a touchscreen then this option will automatically be enabled for you by Windows 8.1 Update 1

From the Desktop, right mouse click on the Taskbar (as shown below) and choose Properties

 

Choose the Navigation tab at the top, then select the option "When I sign in or close all applications on a screen, go to the desktop instead of Start" as highlighted below and click OK to save your settings