Q. I saw the launch for Windows 8 was yesterday. Is it time to upgrade my computer or should I steer clear?
-Steve from Vero Beach, FL, listens to my national radio show on WTTB 1490 AM. 

A. In Microsoft's 37 year history, this could be its most important software launch. PC sales are on the decline and Microsoft has lots of ground to make up in the tablet and smartphone market.

Microsoft made Windows 8 to turn around its fortunes in both markets. That's why it's faster and lighter than previous Windows versions. It also has a radical new user interface that Microsoft says works well on both computers and mobile gadgets.

Of course, Microsoft has to say that to make sure it sells. The real question is if Windows 8 can actually deliver for you, the user.

The first thing to understand is that when I say Windows 8 has a radical new interface, I'm not saying it's like Windows 7 with a paint job.

The Start Menu that dates all the way back to Windows 95 is gone. In its place is a touch-friendly Start Screen.

The Start Screen uses the Modern interface that Microsoft originally developed for Windows Phone 7, and is using for Windows Phone 8 and the upcoming Xbox. It uses colorful live tiles to launch programs and display real-time information.