Will my Win7 discs works on a new machine?

[Bob]

Yes, the non-oem retail package is not bound to a specific PC like the oem license is. If the PC fails and has to be replaced, you can install (i.e. "transfer") the package on the new machine. You cannot install it on two machines simultaneously.

The license terms change with Windows 8. The OEM package can be transferred to another pc that you own.

[George Tyndall]

The license terms change with Windows 8. The OEM package can be transferred to another pc that you own.

According to some, the rolling out of Windows 8 is going to cause many to conclude that Windows 7 is MS's best OS to date--and sales to soar while it is still available.

It's even possible, in one opinion, that shrink-wrapped packages of Windows 7 may become collectors' items.

Too far fetched?

[Bob]

Too far fetched?

Most likely.

The Modern UI (the UI formerly known as Metro), as it stands now is a mess for desktop machines. But, under the hood, the OS kernal is good. If the UI weren't so schizophrenic it would be fairly livable. I expect that we will see changes from Microsoft and independent developers that will help. Stardock's Start8 is one. Start8 provides a Windows 7 like start button, makes the Metro start screen more manageable from the desktop, and has a provision to boot into the Desktop. Not free, $5, but it will make things much easier if you primarily use the desktop.

I don't see any advantage for me to upgrade my existing machine to Windows 8. When it comes time to build a new system, I'll take another look and decide then.

[George Tyndall]

Windows 7 should continue to be available for some time. Microsoft has not yet set the end of sales date. See this lifecyle fact sheet: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/products/lifecycle

Very interesting read, Bob, however, I can't find any definition of the term "extended support" as opposed to "mainstream support." Does the former involve some sort of special request?

A related question, for when you have spare time, is with regard to virtualization programs.

Do I understand correctly that, if I have a backup (mirror image) of my current Win7 sp1 OS and programs on an external HDD and, a few years from now, my current highly-compatible hardware has failed, then all I would need to do is:

1) purchase whatever new hardware is available that is suitable for my needs
2) install a virtualization program and
3) restore my backup to that new machine and
4) I'll be up and running in the same way that I am now, i.e., with no noticable difference in function or speed?

If that is true then the mental status that I've been expecting for when that times comes, which is will instead be

[Peru]

Do I understand correctly that, if I have a backup (mirror image) of my current Win7 sp1 OS and programs on an external HDD and, a few years from now, my current highly-compatible hardware has failed, then all I would need to do is:

1) purchase whatever new hardware is available that is suitable for my needs
2) install a virtualization program and
3) restore my backup to that new machine and
4) I'll be up and running in the same way that I am now, i.e., with no noticeable difference in function or speed?

Maybe.
Virtualization programs can be a bit unpredictable. Some programs may run just fine, while others may run with limited features or not at all.