Rollyd, it helps to give your system model and specifications.
The first thing is that you are running the right version of Windows 8 - with only 1 GB of RAM, you need to be running the x86 (32-bit) version. With the x64 (64-bit) version you will not see benefits until you have 4 GB RAM.
If Windows 8 is running really slowly, on a machine that runs Windows 7 without problems, then there are probably devices that are not using optimal device drivers - it may be that there are not going to be updated drivers. In particular, networking is important, and if there is a slow internet connection, Windows 8 will be trying to update itself, at the expense of performance.
Secondly, the software that is running will slow down the system. Windows 8 does not need 3rd party antivirus, or firewall, software, since these are inbuilt, but they need to be running to protect your system. Malware is the first question to eliminate in a slow running system.
Another reason for slow running is device failure. A failing storage device, either hard drive, or optical can take up resources that cause slow-downs. Check Device Manager from Control Panel to see if any devices have warnings or alarms.
Finally a 10-hour installation rings alarm bells - Windows 8 can be installed in less than an hour on many compatible systems. Was this a clean install or otherwise?
So, what is your model and what do you have loaded on it?