(CNN) -- Upgrading to the new Windows 8 operating system is not nearly as complicated as it looks, despite Microsoft's sometimes muddled marketing. Getting used to using it is a different story. At midnight Thursday, Microsoft's newest operating system is finally on sale. With more than a billion users, Microsoft's Windows is the dominant PC platform in the world. This launch is a big moment for the company, which is trying to keep those users from leaving for more mobile friendly competitors. CNNMoney: Windows 8 -- Microsoft's biggest gamble Here are the basics for regular, non-techy Windows users curious about getting started with Windows 8.
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The new Windows 8 operating system is available after midnight Thursday
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It can be downloaded online, shipped or you can buy a new computer with it pre-installed
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The new interface, which is for tablets and PCs, is fun but takes some getting used to
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Existing Windows users can upgrade for $40 online
@placeholder review: A big, beautiful, slightly shaky step forward