Microsoft to offer Windows 8 upgrade for just $39.99

Martyn, Windows 7 is a far better OS than any that Microsoft produced in the past and most old applications will run if you get Windows XP mode which is free to download.

You can install any other OS as a dual or multiple boot with Windows 7 before or after it, you just need to follow the many guides that can easily be found with a quick Google.

Windows 7 updates, under normal circumstances, do not cause more problems, problems only usually occur due to conflicts with third party software that has not been kept up to date. Some Anti Virus or other security software can also cause problems with the correct installation of updates. Microsoft Security Essentials, an excellent Anti Virus free from Microsoft, won't give you that problem.

Remember that updates are essential to keep your system secure, most updates are for blocking security holes that Malware is designed by criminals to target.

Microsoft has to make progress by continually striving to bring out better and more reliable products just like any other company.

Windows 7 was a con. It doesn't work well , causes unsability issues and has far too many updates which cause even more problems. The compatabilty mode doesn't work with many games and many older games will not work with 64 bit.

Added to that Windows 7 has no uninstaller so if you want to use a dual boot system ,you need to leave installing windows untill the end.

Microsoft keeps "conning" it's customer base by bringing out new products to "test out" on its users.

Windows 8 ..yeh right . I don't think so!