Windows 8 64-bit was a major release in Microsoft's operating system history, designed to bridge the gap between traditional PCs and mobile touch-based devices like tablets. Released in October 2012, the 64-bit "Full Version" (or Full Retail version) allowed users to perform clean installations on new hardware rather than just upgrading from a previous OS.
Windows 8 introduced a radical departure from previous versions by replacing the traditional Start menu with a touch-optimized interface.
