So here’s an example of a typical, frustrating user level IT problem…

I tried out Windows 8.1 in a dual boot setup on my laptop. All fine and good until something got corrupted leaving me with the known problem described here http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_8-system/pc-needs-to-be-repaired-file/5db06fb1-d8cc-47e0-b801-e5e341983e1a

The solution is to use reset/recovery media. I have tried making reset/recovery media from a second Windows 8.1 installation and I’ve spent half a day trying to get it to work without success.

I try to make Windows installation media using the instructions here http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-8/create-reset-refresh-media.

I get an error saying windows 8.1 isn’t available for online purchase in the country/region I’m in.

There’s many solutions posted to that e.g. http://wind8apps.com/12014-windows-8-1-not-available-in-your-region/

I tried that and I get another error “This platform is not supported”.

At what point do you give up? Really, I feel embarrassed for IT.