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With the sad demise of Windows XP, businesses are looking at Windows 7 and Windows 8 to determine the best migration path for them. I adopted Windows 8 early and have been test driving it as my primary business tool. Although Windows 8 is clearly going to appeal to a younger, more app-centric user, I have identified a number of extremely compelling business features under the hood that I believe will make it invaluable to the business owner.

Everyone knows that Windows 8 supports touch screen devices, but pairing it with a hybrid tablet laptop enables significant productivity gains, as users are able to work in their own way and from anywhere they choose. Converting my hybrid device from laptop format in the office to tablet on the train allowed me to continue working, even in a confined space. Combine this greater usability with faster boot-up times and Windows 8 already feels like a platform for business.

But the feature in Windows 8 Enterprise Edition that I find most compelling is called DirectAccess, an always-on network connectivity tool that enables corporate users to work from anywhere. When activated, DirectAccess provides always-on network connectivity for domain joined devices. It provides similar connectivity to that of an IPSEC VPN, but, unlike traditional VPN, it is seamless to the user and does not require them to initiate or terminate sessions. DirectAccess automatically connects the corporate device to the network before the user logs on to their device.

BIG GAINS
So, as soon as my device connects to the internet, it automatically routes me to my corporate network. My productivity gains are now even greater and my log-in experience has been totally transparent. In addition, DirectAccess provides bi-directional connectivity, which enables IT staff to connect to remote devices and manage them. Helpdesk now has a new weapon in reducing call volumes.

Imagine a situation where a user forgets his or her password. If it cannot be recovered and a reset is required in AD, users must wait until they are next joined to the network, in order to log in. But with Windows 8 Enterprise running DirectAccess, a password change can be recognised immediately by the remote user, wherever they are.

In a world where we deploy an increasing amount of software to meet our business requirements, it is great to see such a powerful and useful tool built into an operating system that almost everyone will use. Companies migrating to Windows 8 Enterprise can benefit from always-on connectivity for their domain joined devices and the best part is there are no additional licence costs!

In road testing Windows 8, people always comment on the lack of a 'start' button. That may be an irritant, but look under the hood to see what your business can gain from it and I think you may be pleasantly surprised.