Today, Microsoft released Windows 8.1, a year after the debut of the Windows 8 operating system, which received mixed reviews.

"We listened to customer feedback and are delivering many of the improvements we've been asked for," Microsoft said in a blog post announcing the release.

Windows 8 was meant to bridge the gap between PCs and tablets. Many users found the system difficult to use, especially if they did not have a touchscreen device.

"Windows 8.1 takes Windows 8 - which really was an abomination for mouse-and-keyboard Desktop users, and only slightly better on tablets - and makes it usable," ExtremeTech said.

Microsoft's update is supposed to feature better mobility and flexibility as well as security and network improvements across multiple devices.

Remnants of Windows 8 remains, including the Live Tiles interface. Now, users have easier gestural access to the All Apps page, and users can also make the All Apps page their start screen.

Microsoft's signature Start Button has returned, but it does not bring up the traditional start menu. Instead, the button is used to toggle between the desktop and Start Screen.

Improved customizability, enhanced cloud integration and what Windows calls a "Bing smart search to find things across the web, apps, and your PC" are other changes to the Windows system.

Windows 8.1 is also available for commercial customers.

Users operating under Windows 8 can update their software via a free download from the Windows Store. PC users with older operating systems or Windows 8.1 Preview can check out Windows.com for information about upgrading. Bloggers have also created guides to downloading Windows 8.1 based on a user's current operating system.

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