Users who need to reinstall Windows 7 after dumping Windows 8 can refer to Microsoft's , or watch a video published by last March.

When does the Release Preview expire? Like the Consumer Preview, on January 15, 2013. Microsoft spelled out what happens after that date in the Preview's end-user license agreement (EULA).

"You have no right to use the software after the expiration date. Starting from the expiration date, you may not be able to access any unsaved data used with the software. Any applications you receive through the Windows Store will also cease to be available to you in future versions, unless they are made available for re-download and you re-acquire them. You may not receive any other notice."

By the expiration date, of course Windows 8's final better be available. Or, failing that -- or a decision to not buy the operating system -- you can reinstall the prior OS.

Has Microsoft listened to users who have complained about the disappearance of the Start button? Nope. The Start button is still AWOL, and the Start screen -- Metro all the way -- is the entry to Windows 8.