Windows 7 isn't broke. I have no plans to switch Windows Spyware 8.
http://www.neowin.net/news/windows-8-tells-microsoft-about-everything-you-install
Also, if you have a cablecard you'll have to pay an extra $10 for the media package if you go Win 8.
If you disable 'glass theme' in Windows 7 you will get the same speed as Windows 8. Remember Win 8 is built on Win 7.
XFile,
Thanks for your post. I read your neopost article and found it interesting, but I failed to see any pertinent documentation regarding the perceived security risks.
Oh,
a few days ago, Microsoft was offering free Windows Media Center downloads and keys for anyone that submitted an email address. My wife and I swiftly received over 15 free keys for the Windows Media Center that appears to missing in the Windows 8 operating system.I cannot remember the exact website, but you may want to Google it. I think it is still available.
Here is a portion of the Email that Microsoft sent to each of the email addresses we submitted:
Thank you for registering for our free Windows 8 Media Center Pack offer! **
Here’s your free Windows 8 Media Center Pack product key:
XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX
Follow these steps to add Windows 8 Media Center Pack to your PC running Windows 8 Pro:
Swipe in from the right edge of the screen, and then tap Search. (If you’re using a mouse, point to the upper-right corner of the screen, and then click Search).
Enter add features in the search box, and then tap or click Settings.
Tap or click Add features to Windows 8.
Then tap or click I already have a product key.
Enter the product key, and then click Next.
Read the license terms, select the check box to accept the license terms, and then click Add features.
Your PC will restart automatically and Windows Media Center will be available for use.
Oh, here is some more info about the free Windows Media Center keys that Microsoft is offering:
** Windows 8 Media Center Pack is available at no charge for a limited time only through the promotional page on Windows.com. If you obtain Windows 8 Media Center Pack through any other location, fees might apply. Offer valid from October 26, 2012, until January 31, 2013, and is limited to one product key per email address. In addition, each product key can only be used with one computer. You qualify for this promotion if your PC is running Windows 8 Pro. Additional hardware may be required to watch and record live TV. You must provide a valid email address to receive your Windows 8 Media Center Pack product key. This promotion ends on January 31, 2013; your product key must be activated no later than February 1, 2013. Microsoft will only contact you at the email address you provide to send you your product key and to remind you when the activation period for your product key is ending. Catalysis Corporation is a third-party company we use to collect subscription information and process the delivery of these emails. If you purchase a new PC with Windows 8 preinstalled and you later upgrade that PC with Windows 8 Pro Pack, Windows 8 Media Center Pack, a volume license edition, or a retail edition, you will no longer be able to install apps that are provided exclusively from your PC manufacturer through the Windows Store. Get the full details on our special offers.
Hope this helps someone!
Soar
UPDATE: Here is the website if you would like a free Microsoft Windows Media Center Download and Key:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/feature-packs