Windows 8 is almost here!  I now have a copy of the "consumer preview".  While it seems to run most of my existing programs, there ARE some things to get used to.  Microsoft made an operating System that is supposed work on cell phones, tablets, laptops and desk tops.  The start PAGE looks like a cell phone with smart icons; i.e., you can see a content preview on them.  It IS set up to use gestures but can be run with a mouse if you don't have a touch screen.  All start buttons are one of two sizes – square and double wide.  Position can be switched around just by dragging buttons, and addidtional ones, added from a hidden search screen.  Or a web site can be added to start from the Internet Explorer App.  Good luck with web links from Firefox and Chrome.  Apps are in colorful buttons: either pictures or solid colors.  Start links to programs are black with the program's own icon on it – including things like Notepad and Calculator.  These last open in a very familiar Desktop that's mostly routinely customizable, BUT HAS NO START BUTTON.  That's hidden in the lower left corner of the screen.  And the power options like "shut down" are buried in another hidden menu, as are the means to turn off apps that have been launched.  In short, the new OS will take some getting used to, but looks like it can be, and might be worth the effort in the long run.  I'll be happy to give you a personal intro at any time!