Well, I probably should let you know that the main reason I can work with Win7 is that I can make it look like Win2K. I'm not kidding -- I have a strong preference for what Win7 calls the "Windows Classic" theme, and I brain-damage the Start Menu back into 2001 such that it is quite simple, unobtrusive, and quick. I lose no functionality, but I regain simplicity of operation.
FYI, I have a few Windows Server 2012 R2 boxes, which have the Windows 8 UI (more or less) and they're nearly unusable compared to the old Windows Server 2008 and 2003 interfaces, due to the additional number of clicks required to get to actual functions. The Win8/Server2012 UI is the stupidest thing I've ever seen on a server. I grant you that's my own opinion and YMMV.
Anyway, I appreciate your recommendation of Start8 and I will download and play with it.
Tell me, though: irrespective of Start8, what new features exist in Win8, that don't exist in Win7, that provide improved or additional system (non-GUI) functionality? As you can tell, I don't care a rat's-ass about cool desktop widgets and pretty colors; I use a computer to DO things, not play with widgets. So... Are there improvements to the system tools? The handling of large file transfers over long-distance internet connections? The stability and security of browsing? The handling and logging of system errors in scheduled tasks? That sort of thing...?
Thanks in advance. :)
Boot time is much faster. More stable. One drive integration. “roaming” profiles logging in with your Microsoft ID, refresh PC option, faster, easily identify boot performance issues, and more. Those are just off the top of my mind as I woke up because my dog barked. If you need more let me know.
I have a friend that absolutely store he didn’t want win 8. Two weeks ago I had him install it... He is kicking himself for not going sooner. I did put start8 on his box to keep it looking like won 7.