Use Linux, or if not that, DRWL in Windows 7.

Or just build a computer instead of buying one and then you won't even have it wipe it to install Linux or Windows 7.

Is this person in question skilled enough for linux? Does this person know how to build?

./configure && make && sudo make install

Then again most software has debs nowadays anyways.

Though I realize in retrospect, it would probably be a bitch and a half (and maybe not even possible) to get UEFI to recognize and boot anything but Windows 8.

That, or find the solution for this persons problem.
I use dual boot on my secundary computer, a small laptop. Its a small hassle but works ok. Flash and some sites is a pain.

What web browser do you use? Linux is a first class citizen for Chrome, which is also the only browser Adobe supports for Flash on Linux anymore.

switching betrween chrome and firefox, depending on which one is in the mood :p
Mainly chrome, it has all the tabs and bookmarks from my desktop

I got Win7SP1 x64 to boot on UEFI with no problems, though I'm not familiar with the latest variations/updates on that.

Find solution for bluescreen
Fix problrm
????
Profit!


No ide what you have done on it so far, or if it is laptop desktop or other.
Usual reason for a bsod( lue screen of death) are outdated drivers(there is one free software to fix that problem) and there is so called memory problem. RAM, random access memory, aka work memory. Either they just need a nudge, remove amd reinstall or you need new ones. They dont tend to be that expensive. You can find neat deals.

Also prefer using a friend from your town that you know and trust enough if you send your machine somewhere.
Computer repair services cost your shirt, arm and a leg.

this software for drivers, i have had ZERO problems with it

http://slimdrivers.en.softonic.com/

Why not download a copy of Windows 7 and use your current license key on a new comp?

Where do I find my license key?

There should be a sticker somewhere that'd look liek this: https://www.dropbox.com/s/077szvaad.....420_212712.jpg

If you don't have a sticker, there's free software called product key finders that can retrieve the current license key.

windows 8.1 really isn't as scary or unusable as people make it out to be. I took a chance with it with my laptop and have no real complaints other than poor app support/availability. But, sure there are things to get used to.

It also helps to familiarize yourself with key shortcuts.

So how different is it from plain 8? Please tell me it lets me disable the Start screen and bring the old menu back.

no they haven't completely rolled back to the old start menu (yet) but they have gotten rid of allot annoying things about the new interface. They recently did an update that I haven't completely explored yet.

Is it possible to at least remove all the annoying icons the start screen comes with? I really don't need things like Netflix or Plants vs. Zombies when all I'm looking for is my documents folder.

you can remove or add anything to the start screen. Right clicking on any shortcut or folder gives you the option to pin it to the start screen and you can also change the size of the tiles.

Well, that's good to know. Still, the screen is very obtrusive. But it seems like everyone just wants to develop for the casuals these days.

i agree. there are way more intuitive ways MS could have done the new start interface.