In a 24 hour window, I updated my server from WHS2011 to WSE and my main desktop from Win7 to Win8. I used the no-domain registry hack. Here are my findings:
WSE + Win7 client with registry hack = all server features appear to work fine. I was able to perform client backups.
I then upgraded my desktop from Win7 to Win8
WSE + Win8 client, post-upgrade = could not access dashboard (got a password error), had to access dashboard via RDP. Also,client backups failed.
I then reinstalled the connector (after checking the ensure the registry hack was still in place). The connector reinstalled but forced me to join a domain. I booted, saw my files were gone, decided I didn't have the time to do a transfer, and did a system restore. I may try again tomorrow. If not, I will roll back to Win7.
Has anyone been able to get a Win8 client to work without joining a domain?