Windows 8.1 will try to make your life a bit easier by letting you shut down or restart your PC from the Start screen.
The preview edition of Windows 8.1 isn't due out until Wednesday. But the Windows Server 2012 R2 preview is available now for download. Since both versions share many features in common, the server-based preview provides a good glimpse at what's ahead for PC and tablet users.
Windows 8.1 users will be able to trigger a shut down or reboot much more quickly than in Windows 8. On the PC's Start screen, simply right-click on the new Start button to display the familiar pop-up menu. You'll now find a shut down command at the bottom of the menu, which lets you turn off or restart your device.
Read more at: Windows 8.1 to let you shut down directly via Start button | Microsoft - CNET News