Disabling Tablet Traits of windows 8.1: Touchscreen

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SUMMARY

Disabling touchscreen functionality on Windows 8.1 can be achieved by accessing the Device Manager and disabling the touchscreen drivers under Human Interface Devices. This method effectively resolves issues related to accidental cursor movements that trigger unwanted changes, such as font size adjustments. Users can also enhance their experience by utilizing the StartIsBack utility, which allows customization of the interface to resemble Windows 7 or Windows 8 without touchscreen features. However, completely downgrading from Windows 8.1 may pose challenges due to potential driver incompatibilities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with Windows 8.1 operating system
  • Basic understanding of Device Manager functionality
  • Knowledge of Human Interface Devices in Windows
  • Experience with third-party utilities like StartIsBack
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to disable touchscreen drivers in Windows 8.1
  • Explore the features and settings of StartIsBack for Windows 8.1
  • Investigate potential driver issues when downgrading from Windows 8.1
  • Learn about alternative operating systems compatible with existing hardware
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for Windows 8.1 users, particularly those experiencing issues with touchscreen functionality, as well as IT professionals and enthusiasts looking to customize their operating system experience.

WWGD
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Hi all,
AFAIK, Windows 8.1 machines ( I have a laptop) have been designed in part to function as tablets. Specifically, the touch screen and slides of the mouse. Specifically, I have a touchpad for my mouse. Problem I have is that I will inadvertently slide/move the cursor in such a way that all sorts of changes are triggered, e.g., I will move the cursor a certain way and my font size will change. Is there a way, other than buying an external mouse, to disabling these triggers?

Basically, I would like to have my computer act like a PC would in a world where the same technology is available but tablets have not been invented.
Thanks.
 
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Go to device manager. under human interface devices,you have the touchscreen drivers. Disable it. Restart your pc. Now you should not have any problems. I solved mine that way. Pro - No more cursor problems. Con- Touchscreen is disabled
 
Thanks, Syed, will give that a try now.
 
Buy the utility StartIsBack ($3 license for 2 PC's) and tune its settings. Can make it mostly ust like Win7 or Win8 without touch.
 
Thanks, but I have Windows 8.1, I just don't like the random changes that come with the tablet traits.
 
Simple, get rid of 8.1!
 
Getting rid of 8.1 might not be so simple if hardware drivers are not [yet?] available for other operating systems.
I wish I could downgrade my Windows 8 tablet to XP-TabletPCEdition...
While there were improvements, it's weird that they got rid of some stylus-related features.
 

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