Have Windows 8 and dont want 8.1 Need help! - Page 2

minkbunny · ‎03-09-2010

Glad you got everything fixed to your satisfaction I would not doubt that you know more about computers than I do. I have experts in the family but I am not one of them.

I had XP as well and loved it but had no choice but to upgrade when I needed a new laptop. I got the 8.1 with fear and trepidation but so far so good. I just followed the page by page directions to set everything up. (knock on wood).

mustbuyless · ‎03-31-2014

I realize many people love 8.1 and are perfectly ok with automatic upgrades. I'm not one of them- I too had a bad experience when I was forced to upgrade, and was in similar situation as the OP. I hate the way they upgrade to 8.1. It's so misleading when they tell you (during that upgrade which seemed forced, in that I didn't approve it!) that you can continue working while the stupid upload is taking place. Well, everything I was working on during that time got wiped.

So I stopped the upgrade and then I was in bizarroland. Have no idea what happened afterwards but when I went back to 8 I'd lost my desktop and several files. Took tons of time and effort to restore and some I never got back. I'm sure it was my fault one way or another- probably for aborting the upgrade in a panic- but I really hate it that they have no frigging information out there as to what you can expect while the upgrade is taking place, step by step, if/when you are forced to upgrade.

I was briefly tempted to get 8.1 because it restores the Start button which I really miss in 8 version. But getting 8.1 just for that was not worth it to me.

So even if it's my fault, I know that Microsoft's ways are different from mine and I never want to tackle any of their stuff in future. With computers I know I'm a dope and I want (and thought I was paying for) something goofproof.

I did a lot of googling once I realized what a fix I was in and encountered complaint upon complaint regarding the upgrade to 8.1. Apparently even the way they rolled out 8.1 was incredibly stupid- there were glitches from the get go. They even went back to the drawing board at some point because they got so many user complaints. I know it's worked beautifully for many users so I'm sure if a user researches the process carefully the upgrade will be fabulous- and so I'm not suggesting my experience is universal. But speaking for myself, I am done with Microsoft. My next computer will be a MAC. I've resisted MAC for ever (all my many many tech friends have been unanimous in insisting that PC is the way to go) but after 20 odd years of following their advice I am done.

Nuttmeg · ‎03-09-2010

On 9/5/2014 mustbuyless said:
My next computer will be a MAC. I've resisted MAC for ever (all my many many tech friends have been unanimous in insisting that PC is the way to go) but after 20 odd years of following their advice I am done.

You need Windows 8.1 for security reasons Windows updates.

LilacTree · ‎03-25-2012

~~

Formerly Ford1224
We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented. Elie Wiesel 1986

apple1964 · ‎08-07-2013

My boss reverted back to windows 7 and he has said he has no problems. I would stay with windows8.1 and get the automatic updates. It is easier with windows 8 and 8.1 you can still get the old desktop, if you do not like working with the tiles. Everyone will have to update next year anyway. So, if anyone is buying a new computer or mini tablet computer they will have to update to 8.1 or download hundreds of updates .

apple1964 · ‎08-07-2013

On 9/5/2014 nutmeg3 said:
On 9/5/2014 mustbuyless said:
My next computer will be a MAC. I've resisted MAC for ever (all my many many tech friends have been unanimous in insisting that PC is the way to go) but after 20 odd years of following their advice I am done.

You need Windows 8.1 for security reasons Windows updates.

Yes, indeed .. I agree with that!

apple1964 · ‎08-07-2013

/5/2014 Ann52 said:
I downloaded 8.1 and had nothing but trouble - slow, freezing, too much to name. Finally, I uninstalled 8.1 and reinstalled 8 and no more problems. I still get the popup and just click "ask me later".

Hello, Ann52 If and when you install 8.1 make sure you clear out all your old history and do a virus scan to make sure there are no virus on your computer. Then reinstall you should not have any problems with freezing or your computer running too slow.

apple1964 · ‎08-07-2013

On 9/5/2014 minkbunny said:
Thanks, Matty. I didn't have 8 so I have no comparison. We have 7 at work I believe (the laptops have 8.1 but I use a desktop. ) I have a new HP laptop at home which replaced one that was at least 7 years old. I think it had XP or something ${#emotions_dlg.ohmy}$

Your welcome! When I brought my new computer I was wondering what the new 8.1 would be like. I saw nothing different except for the automatic updates. Some I still have to update manually. I like the 8.1 and the 8 better then windows vista which I had before. Have a good day !

Mindy D · ‎05-23-2010

Even though you probably should upgrade, I have my doubts that the pop up is coming from the real Microsoft. I have never seen them have hourly pop ups. Do not click on the pop ups. Run your anti virus on a shirt scan or a full scan if you are a masochist. You are vulnerable to attack with 8, because Microsoft will not be supporting it. Go to their official website and see.

VolvoGirl · ‎07-21-2010

I had Windows XP and knew I would have to upgrade eventually and didn't want the tile screen etc. So I waited and got a computer WITH 8.1. It has the desktop just like before or you can go to the Metro Title start screen. But mine boots right into the normal familiar desktop. 8.1 came out for people to put the traditional desktop back.