Installing non-windows apps

[JustFlyin]

Please forgive me for my obvious (and Complete!) lack of "computer literacy/tech savvyiness", but be assured that if I cause you to groan aloud ("ugh!") due to my inability to "get it",  the sound I emit is thundering in comparison ("ARGH!!!! WTH?!!").That being said, this "grammy" is hoping to find some guidance from a (really) patient and empathetic geek;-) as I MUST be looking in the wrong places for a "for senior dummies" explanation to my queries. And although my list of "?" is long any assistance with the following abbreviated list will be greatly appreciated! A: is it possible to configure my hp notebook (recently obtained), which is running windows 10 to open similar to my (somewhat more familiar) Iphone 6s? i.e., start/open with a screen of my most used app icons.  B: Are the apps from the windows app store the ONLY apps I can install on my device? (I really can't install Pinterest on this thing?) C: As I fear I'm a prime candidate for obtaining a virus or malware or "?" what recommendations do you have for security .., software (?)?  Should anyone decide to actually offer their assistance, I thank you in advance for any and all help!! 

[banhien · Accepted solution]

@JustFlyin

Welcome to HP Support Forum. Please allow me to answer one by one

• A and B:  In many cases Apple apps won't live under Windows world and we have to install similar apps from Windows Store. I think Microsoft and other software vendors are trying to put many things (apps) under Windows Store banner but we still have to install programs for Windows in normal way : buy installation CD or key to download and install to machine. In short, Windows laptops and smart phones (even Microsoft phones) are two different worlds for now. May be 3 or 5 or 10 more years they can be the same.
• C: There are many good security products but none of them can 100% protect your machine. Please check:

             http://au.pcmag.com/antivirus-reviews-and/8949/guide/the-best-antivirus-protection-of-2017

Regards.

[Dragon-Fur]

@JustFlyin

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@JustFlyin wrote:

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A: is it possible to configure my hp notebook (recently obtained), which is running windows 10 to open similar to my (somewhat more familiar) Iphone 6s? i.e., start/open with a screen of my most used app icons.  

B: Are the apps from the windows app store the ONLY apps I can install on my device? (I really can't install Pinterest on this thing?)

C: As I fear I'm a prime candidate for obtaining a virus or malware or "?" what recommendations do you have for security .., software (?)?  Should anyone decide to actually offer their assistance, I thank you in advance for any and all help!! 

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A Windows computer is not at all an iPhone. 

There is an entire industry out in the world that is not "Apple" based.  Smiling.

A.  Personalize the Start Screen and experience

Windows key > Settings > Personalization >   Start  

If you would like the "Start Screen" that shows your tiles (little boxes of programs) to flow across the entire screen, that is, take up all the space on the screen as you look at it, switch ON "Use Start Full Screen". 

The Start Screen will not "forever" stick in place -- for example, if you do use a "Windows" style program, the start screen will disappear and the program you are using will use the computer screen.  When you want to go back to "Start Screen" where you see all your "Tiles", Click the Windows key again.

If you want "more stuff" on your Start Screen:  Switch ON  Show more tiles on Start

If you want the "App list", switch ON  Show App list in Start

If you want the list to include new apps, switch ON  Show recently added apps

In general, you can switch ON everything.  If later you don't like the results of that setting, switch it off.

For example, "Occasionally show suggestions in Start" sounds nice -- and it may be useful for awhile.  If the pop-up notifications start to "bug your trip", switch off the Notification setting.

B. Apps for your Computer

Applications come in a couple of different kinds, including those you would find at the Windows Store.  The "Windows Store" is the windows equivalent to downloading apps in your iPad / iPhone from the Apple Store.

The Pinterest Website, when opened on your favorite Browser, shows that you can log in directly using your account information or use Facebook or Google login options.

The ever-popular Chrome Browser appears to offer a Pinterest app button for the purpose of pinning favorite articles or other website goodies.  Open the Chrome Store > type Pinterest in the search box > select your apps

If you cannot find what you want in the store, you have the option of searching for a Windows program that will do the task you wish to accomplish.  I urge a high level of caution when downloading unknown software -- you are right to think you might be vulnerable.

C. Security Software

Windows Defender is standard on computers runing Windows 10.  The software has greatly improved over the years and does a good job of protecting your computer (and you).

If you want to add something more, start with a Free version of one of the better security softwares available.  For example, while it is not as robust as the paid versions of the software, Avast Free is a good, solid, software that has a good reputation.  The software also "lives well" with Windows and does not trod on your toes (does not fail, interrupt, or cause trouble).  If you decide that you want "more" protection, consider one of the paid versions.

Also check out McAfee and Norton.

Commentary

Nothing helps like reading up on a new subject.

Found with Chrome browser, using Google Search for

beginners guide microsoft use windows 10 help

How to Use Windows 10

Microsoft - Windows 10 Help

Windows 10 has changed quite a bit -- articles that are more "recent" (newer) are likely to be more relevant to your setup.  As you become more familiar with the Operating System, you will be able to more easily recognize information that is "for your setup".

Good Luck.

Welcome to Windows!

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