Windows 8 upgrade

[The_Wiseman]

I received an email extending the special upgrade offer to Feb. 28. I'm considering it given the price difference, but I'd like to know how long everyone thinks it will be until I'm forced to upgrade (Games and Visual Studio are the main considerations) so I can weigh the pricing.

I've read many opinions on 8 here, so there's not a great need to share. For the most part, I dislike the new interface as much as I disliked Vista and 7's in comparison to XP (with a few exceptions). I use my laptop for business and like it to be no frills, no nonsense. I'd use Linux exclusively if it had support for everything I use.

Also, up to this point I've done no software development on Windows 8, does anyone have experience with VS11 Express? I'm told it has severe restrictions now.

Thanks for any insight, everyone.

[Force Flow]

You can continue to use older versions of VS if you choose, since they won't be remotely deactivated. They simply don't have support for the Windows 8 Metro interface.

Here are some more specifics on VS11: If Microsoft's VS11 Express changes are a problem for you, you're doing it wrong | Technology | guardian.co.uk

If you primarily develop for Windows 7, it's likely you won't benefit much from the upgrade.

But--just because you purchase a copy of the Windows 8 upgrade now to take advantage of the price, doesn't mean you have to install it right this second. Simply install it later when you feel you need it or would benefit from it. It won't expire.