bob3160
242
So far I like Windows8.
The Laptop was given to me with this installation: ‘Release Preview Evaluation copy. Build 8400’
I’m guessing this validation will only last for so long (I don’t know how long??) and then a Key will need to be purchased.
So I decided to through the ‘buy key online’ function and continually get this ‘error’
Any ideas/solution?
Anyone else have this problem?
MaxLV
247
Tried all the third party Start button options (that I can find with Google) in the two weeks since I upgraded to Windows 8 from 7.
All have been uninstalled, as IMHO they’re just an unneeded duplication of the Start screen, the windows key + x, and Stablauncher (stablauncher.com/) that I have been using since XP.
Even that is a bit redundant now as most of the programs I have in Stablauncher I have loaded and run from the start screen.
For me, the Classic Shell is the tool.
bob3160
249
You’re a little late. This was already covered some time back. It also isn’t free.
Totally agree with Tech, Classic Shell rocks.
See the video
system
250
I’m getting the itch to try Windows 8 but I don’t want to install it on any of the machines I have. I checked the upgrade advisor and I would lose too much functionality of some things that are key to me. The biggest thing is that I would lose DvD playback on all machines since none of my current solutions are compatible. The XP machine has HP QuickPlay which can play a DVD from a single button push when the machine is off, only loading the necessary parts of Windows and not having to do a complete boot. This feature was removed for Vista because they couldn’t make it work in that OS. Some of the HP specific drivers and utilities are also not compatible. Another big issue is my legacy games that I had to do a lot of configuration to get working, especially in Win 7 and there are a couple that will only work on the XP machine.
Therefore I’m left with the option of buying a new machine with Win 8 preloaded and I can’t justify that.
bob3160
251
@ Dch48,
Is there a question or a solution in your post ???
Your games should work fine in Windows 8. if they don’t, use the Compatibility Wizard. (Covered in this topic.)
Windows 8 currently offers a free upgrade to Media Center through 1/31/2013 which will address your
ability to play DVD’s. (Covered earlier in this topic.)
You first have to check the HP website if your pc has any Windows 8 driver updates, if not, check the component manufactures website.
Yes, some games are not compatible with Windows 8 especially online games. But they will update it soon.
I had a hard time playing Battlefield Heroes but they released an update for Punkbuster so its ok now.
Or you can save all important files and everything and take some time off and install Windows 8 and check for yourself if its worth it and if not, you can revert back to Windows 7.
You shouldn’t buy a new pc now. Wait till Intel’s Haswell chips are out by the middle of next year.
bob3160
253
You shouldn't buy a new pc now. Wait till Intel's Haswell chips are out by the middle of next year.
The problem with that philosophy is that you'll never buy a new PC.
There are always new releases just around the corner. At the speed that technology is advancing,
something new is outdated within month of it's purchase. :)
CraigB
254
Start8 is what I prefer, Classic Shell was alright but I found Start8 to provide a slightly more authentic and professional windows 7 look and function to the start menu plus it’s only $5 for lifetime license which come’s with the auto updating which is handy.
Why does people miss the start menu so much? Personally if I had a windows 8 pc I wouldn’t get the start menu back.
Asyn
256
Because they’re used to it. 
Hey any input about my issue ??? 
I do not believe the preview can be upgraded and unlocked
Thanks essexboy, but I’m not sure I understand.
Totally new to this process
How do I get from this Preview installation to “Windows8 Pro”?? ???
system
260
So far I like Windows8.
The Laptop was given to me with this installation: ‘Release Preview Evaluation copy. Build 8400’
I’m guessing this validation will only last for so long (I don’t know how long??) and then a Key will need to be purchased.
So I decided to through the ‘buy key online’ function and continually get this ‘error’
Any ideas/solution?
Anyone else have this problem?
I upgraded to win 8 Pro from a licenced Win 7 Home Premium. So far, if you haven’t bought any Windows product, you’ll have to purchase the Win 8 Pro CD-ROM. Another option is to try Linux Ubuntu for example if you’re comfortable with that. It’s free!
