When Windows 8 is launched next month, you will be able to upgrade to the pro version for just $40 for a limited time.  The deal will apply to PC owners now running Windows XP, Vista or 7, and you will be able to download the Windows Media Centre for free.

If you plan to upgrade to Windows 8 eventually, here are the facts that you need to know abou the limited-time upgrade deal.  First of all, you will have to wait until the official launch on October 26th to sign up for the upgrade.  Secondly, you will only be able to purchase the upgrade at the $40 price until January 31, 2013.  If you are upgrading from Windows 7, you will be able to migrate your programs, settings and data to Windows 8.  If you are upgrading from Vista, you will not be able to migrate your programs, and if you are upgrading from XP, you will only be able to take your data with you.  We recommend that you start with a fresh install, no matter what version of Windows you are upgrading from – it is always better to start with a clean slate.