Just got a new laptop with Windows 8. HATE IT!!! If Dell cannot downgrade the OS to Windows 7, I will be returing the laptop for one that does run 7 or for my money back.
My current laptop came with Windows 7 on it. The VERY FIRST time I booted it up it had a Fedora Install DVD in it.
I haven't gone back to Windows, or wished to, since before 2003.
And before people say I don't use it for much, I use it for work, connect to their Exchange server, use IM and exchange documents. No one can tell I don't use Windows, and I get much more work done.
Try this and you’ll love it: http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/download.asp
It adds the start button back and it adds a few other features. So you can have your regular interface but all the improvements in Win8 too. Don’t downgrade.
Which is why I shall be hanging on to the laptop I got for FREE via coupons a couple of years ago. I was planning on getting a new laptop about this year if a new OS came out but from what I have heard about the Windows 8 nightmare, I'm hanging on to it.