Originally Posted by
Octane
(please no "go to Linux" type advice)
Have a rethink - you can get Linux distros which look and perform almost identically to Windows if that is what you feel comfortable with. Personally I hate Microsoft products with a passion specifically for the update sagas that you highlight and rather than fight against the tide perhaps you should consider just changing your OS.
You can then spend your time using your PC for work and play rather than fighting Bill Gates.