2013-09-22, 22:41
I just installed Windows 8.1 and have a nice way to start XBMC with Windows.
It still loads explorer so you can exit XBMC and not have to run anything extra, you will be taken straight back into Windows, no messing with Shell or anything.
So firstly you have to have Windows 8.1 (8 will not work). Either wait until the 17th October until it officially comes out or download the beta.
Once you have 8.1 installed and setup, right click on your Start bar -> Properties.
Go to "Navigation" Tab and tick "When I sign in or close all applications on screen, go to the desktop instead of Start" (This is only available in Win 8.1 - hence the upgrade).
Click OK to leave that menu.
Next we need to set Windows to automatically log in without asking for a Username or Password:
Press the Windows key + R for Run (or just press the Windows key and type Run).
In the Run box type "netplwiz"
In User Accounts untick the box "Users must enter a username and password to use this computer."
It will ask for your to confirm your Password, so enter this and click OK.
Next open up the Run box again (Windows Key + R)
In the Run box type "shelltartup".
This will open up the Startup programs list.
Just copy in a XBMC shortcut and Bobs your uncle!
Next time you restart it will automatically load XBMC and it will be the main focus.
You can then just exit XBMC and be taken back into Windows without having to run Explorer or anything else.
It still loads explorer so you can exit XBMC and not have to run anything extra, you will be taken straight back into Windows, no messing with Shell or anything.
So firstly you have to have Windows 8.1 (8 will not work). Either wait until the 17th October until it officially comes out or download the beta.
Once you have 8.1 installed and setup, right click on your Start bar -> Properties.
Go to "Navigation" Tab and tick "When I sign in or close all applications on screen, go to the desktop instead of Start" (This is only available in Win 8.1 - hence the upgrade).
Click OK to leave that menu.
Next we need to set Windows to automatically log in without asking for a Username or Password:
Press the Windows key + R for Run (or just press the Windows key and type Run).
In the Run box type "netplwiz"
In User Accounts untick the box "Users must enter a username and password to use this computer."
It will ask for your to confirm your Password, so enter this and click OK.
Next open up the Run box again (Windows Key + R)
In the Run box type "shelltartup".
This will open up the Startup programs list.
Just copy in a XBMC shortcut and Bobs your uncle!
Next time you restart it will automatically load XBMC and it will be the main focus.
You can then just exit XBMC and be taken back into Windows without having to run Explorer or anything else.