I've just bought a new HP laptop and it has one of those 'start' screens (where the apps all are) and then you can go into a normal 'desktop' screen. I've tried downloading Java but it's saying it's not supported by Windows8 unless in 'desktop' mode (which I'm in)

Anybody know I need to do??

You're likely opening Internet Explorer which will open the App version of it. This then switches back to the Metro UI. You will need to download another browser I think for desktop mode.

Don't quote me on this as I'm not 100% sure if that's what it happening.

raptorman any ideas mate??

i had same problem

have you down loaded 32 bit and 64 bit java

then enable it

It won't let me download any kind of Java, Craig. I'll have another go when I get home tonight though.

Here are a few blogs and such to help you on your way mav

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/zxue/archive/2012/03/07/win8-howto-1-switch-between-metro-ui-and-desktop.aspx

http://oxfordsbsguy.com/2013/01/15/how-to-open-internet-explorer-10-in-desktop-mode-on-windows-8/

http://www.java.com/en/download/faq/win8_faq.xml