Y Not I

Either Microsoft or the users of Windows. Just read that “upgrade” discs of Vista will not install a fresh new copy, which, or course, is the best way to install an OS. Upgrading over a previous version is always a risk, yet Microsoft will force that upon you. I even recall at one time that there was a recommendation, I think from Microsoft, that stated that it was a good practice to reformat and reinstall Windows fresh periodically. That is not possible now, since it would require a fresh install of XP, then an upgrade, a pointless and overly complex task. Microsoft tries so hard to enforce it silly view of what a license is.

Microsoft sells you Windows Vista, and you can only use it as they say. The upgrade license is tied to the previous OS that needs to be installed. If your hard drive crashes, you may be out of luck, since the previous OS is now gone. It is like buying a chair, and the manufacturer of the chair having a license that only the purchaser can use the chair, or that the chair can only be used in the dinning room, and put a sensor that would make the legs collapse if placed in a different room. Most people would not buy a chair from that manufacturer. I think most people should turn away from Windows. I wait upon the day that people reject Microsoft and it’s practices. Buy a Mac, load Linux.

Do something, but do not put up with Microsoft’s way of treating it’s customers. There is really only one reason I am running Windows at home now. Access to the iTunes store. I should have gotten a Mac, yet the cost difference is still too great. To spend $1000 and have to chose between a computer with 2GB of RAM, a 20″ flat panel monitor, a 250GB hard drive and a Mac with 512MB of RAM, 80 GB hard drive and 17″ screen is tough. There is so much more power available for the same money. Apple like to claim that an Apple computer is not more money, but they are comparing a PC that is outfitted with items that come standard on a Mac, items that I would rather pay less and do without, but do not have the option. That is Apple’s choice, however a Mac is still more costly than a PC, or better out, you can get a better PC for the same price. That leaves Linux. Maybe I will have to move my stuff back over and figure out the iPod/iTunes situation.

Microsoft should get a clue and meet the customer needs, or the consumers should get a clue and let Microsoft that all the DRM and licensing is not acceptable.