New computer

[Craig]

It failed the update when I tried. So I will try again when I go to my daughter's house in Brisbane as she has unlimited download. It is a 3.6 gig download and I only have 8 gig per month. I hope you are correct because I would not buy another computer with w8.

[dapope]

8.1is fine, and theres a freebit of software that gives the old start button back. Wife has the touchs reen, even better

[SteveW]

There are various ways to use the "old style" desktop on W8 or 8.1. There are free software programs as well as ways to boot directly to the desktop on start up. Just Google around a bit and and you'll find it. W8.1 can boot directly to the old style desktop.

[BruceS]

Craig I've just been through the Windows update to 8.1 exercise.
Most times it goes in without problems but ..............
If you do a Google you'll see all the problems people are having.
The one I just did failed (at the last moment) 3 times before I rang Microsoft.
Low level tech logged in & did the same as me.... (failed)
That lady then made an appointment for high level tech to fix it next day.
I watched as they did it. They removed a few updates first, installed a few extra different updates & then did the 8.1 update.
Went straight in no problems.
The 3.6gig 8.1 update only has to be downloaded once.
If you try again right now the process will very quickly go to 63% & then start trying to install till it fails again.
I suggest you find a free public library or something & contact Microsoft on their free help line.
Be quick because those who do NOT go to 8.1 will shortly not be able to do any updates at all & that will leave you open to hacking. (potentially)

[TassyJim]

If you are looking for an 'Outlook' replacement for W8/W8.1, Thunderbird installs and runs well.

Jim

[BernieQ2]

Hi Jim, with thunderbird do you keep your email address or have to get another?
Bernie.

[BruceS]

Keep your existing ones Bernie.
I've got about 10 different addresses in my Thunderbird.

Craig the Microsoft Help is .......... (Sydney)
Call Us:
13 20 58

[BernieQ2]

That's the problem with most having to change email address Bruce some thing I'm not about to do.
Hey mate where's the link ya promised??
Bernie.

[RussellB[SA]]

I finally got my new iMac this morning, now have to wait for the data to migrate from the old one to the new one.

IT'S VERY FAST with a VERY BIG SCREEN.

[Craig]

Thanks Bruce, I will give it another go