ByPass the Windows 8 Start screen after log-in

For some unknown reason, Microsoft does not provide a configuration setting for bypassing the new Windows 8 Start screen. You would think that, at least on non-touch-enabled devices, Windows 8 would default to the Desktop — but alas, Microsoft in its infinite wisdom thinks that Metro with a mouse and keyboard is a joy to use.

Fortunately, with a little bit of hacking, there’s a very easy way to bypass the Start screen after logging in. Hit Start, type schedule, click Settings, and open “Schedule tasks.” Click Task Scheduler Library from the left pane, Create Task on the right pane, and give it a name like Boot to Desktop.

Then head into the Triggers tab, click New, and then select “At log on” from the drop-down. Click OK. Head to the Actions tab, click New, and then simply type explorer into the Program/script text box. Click OK, OK again, and you’re done. Restart (or sign out) to test it.