I stopped using Microsoft products in 1994!

I would try the basic PC world computer with a straight forward Linux. Have just installed Mageia 4 from a cover disk on Linux Voice, and it works perfectly/easily installed off the disk. Include all the grey software to allow DVD playing etc, and add VLC media player, and job done.

Once set up, I would have all the program icons on the desk top, and then leave it. It will just work then.

I did look at putting Linux onto the old machine that wouldn't boot XP Steve. My problem is, I have software that needs Windows to run, isn't available any more, and there is no obvious replacement (not to mention the several thousands of pounds it would cost to get new versions). Some of it will run on Win7 and the rest will hopefully run on Win7 in XP mode.

Yes, well, anyone using Microsoft products is asking for trouble. Save up some more and get a Mac!

You didn't read the last line of the last post did you Bronchitikat? ;)

It's not a case of lack of money. It's just a case of not liking iCrap, and already having software that has cost several thousands of pounds that won't run on iCrap, and not wanting to waste money on stuff with features that I will never need or use.

*adds Bronchitikat to list of iFanGirls*

Well a day has passed and we do appear to now have a fully functioning PC running Windows 7, looking like XP and with an XP add on (downloadable, but only with the Pro version of 7) to run older programmes that won't run on 7 or 8. We nearly hesitated when I thought we had bought the wrong version of Windows 7, an apparent OEM version that seemed (from writing on the packaging) to require additional professional tools to install.

But some extensive Googling tracked down the current whereabouts of Little Computer Man who put together BW's PC some years ago, and he was kind enough to call me back on Friday night. He said that we had bought the right disc and could just open the pack and go for it, which gave us the reassurance to carry on. With the bonus of Office 2013 professional bought for £8 through a deal from work.

I hesitate to say phew.......but well phew.

I've wondered about going over to i but like you I have programs which won't run with apple and they're much too expensive to replace. I've also wondered about Linux but suspect that the same thing applies. And I do agree that it's appalling that MS have discontinued support for XP.
However, I am ageing and I haven't yet found computer technology too complicated. (except when it goes wrong but that's true of taps and hoovers too). Perhaps I just haven't aged enough?

BW - I did read the last line of the previous post, after I'd commented here. Shame about your icrap not working.

I might have suggest Linux, but actually only know about computers what I've gleaned from my geek husband. That & I don't know whether the ol' penguin'll run Microstuff anyhow.