Following what is probably good advice, I upgraded my Samsung laptop to 8.1.  I started at 2:00 today and just finished, a little after midnight.  I would guess it took 6 1/2 hours of my time.

I had to update Windows 8, an interminable process, download 8.1, install it, and then have it go through 3 cycles of adjusting settings and then a fourth cycle.

It does look to be a bit easier to use, there are familiar things like control panel available, but it still has a bunch of screwy things.  At least one doesn’t have to chase those “charms” around, or try to find them.

All in all it has increased my resolve to avoid Microsoft at all costs in the future.  They aren’t worth the vexation.  I know Chrome is easier, and other systems can’t be any harder.