I have been using Windows 8 for more than a year now and I can truly say that I like it.

I agree that Microsoft did fumble the ball when Windows 8 was released. Most consumers and business users find it frustrating when purchasing a new PC/notebook and discover how difficult it is to find one with Windows 7. Windows 8.1 Update nullified a lot of complaints when the O/S was originally released and it’s much easier to navigate in Windows 8.1 Update.

Boot to Desktop. People complained of the Metro tile interface and they wanted their desktop back. With some tweaks in the taskbar of the desktop, you can ensure that when apps are closed, we default back to the desktop rather than the Start screen.

Start Button. The Start button is back ! However, most savvy people will say, “Where the #$% is my START MENU!” Yes, this is still an issue, but with applications like Classicshell, this problem is resolved as well. Even Lenovo has partnered with Sweetlabs and use their Pokki app on some of their PC and notebooks.

User Interface (UI) issues. When someone sees Windows 8 for the first time, they want to know how to close an app, they want to know how to turn off the unit without hitting the power button, etc.

With Windows 8.1 Update and a start menu app, there should be no reason to hate Windows 8 or downgrade to Windows 7 when purchasing a new device. ( unless you truly have a software compatibility issue )