Windows 8 is more reliant on an Internet connection than previous versions, in particular the animated and constantly updating Metro interface, and Cloud storage options, but otherwise it works perfectly well offline. On the plus side not connecting to the Internet means your computer will be largely immune to web-borne viruses and malware. The downside is that it won't receive updates and Service Packs. These can be important, especially in the early days of a new operating system. This is when unforeseen bugs and glitches are most likely to be discovered, which could affect the PC's operation or stability. If you do decide to take a chance and go off-grid Windows will pester you with pop-up warnings but you can stop them by switching off automatic updates. All you have to do is press Winkey + Break to open the System Dialogue box and click Windows Update > Change Settings. Some of your programs may also object, but in general these types of update are less frequent, and unlikely to be security related or of a critical nature. Incidentally, as I mentioned a few weeks ago, it is very easy to make W8 look and operate like an XP, Vista or W7 PC with a free utility called StartMenu8 (http://goo.gl/lLw4h). This enables the conventional desktop at startup, with the familiar and Start button and menu.
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