Installing office is kids stuff, all 9 DVDs of native instrument's komplete 9 (not even the ultimate version which has like another 100 gigs of samples included) took 2 days using another laptop's drive over wifi.
I don't understand the distaste people have regarding wired networking. In my office, I have several people who complain about the wifi having congestion. In the heart of the CBD, with tons of other networks visible. "That network cable on your desk, which I put there for you to use, plug it in and this problem goes away". They plug it in, comment on how quick and clean their network is now... then complain the next day about wifi congestion.
A lot of laptops that don't have an optical drive also don't have built-in ethernet (Retina MacBooks). The Thunderbolt adapter is an option, but it's not cheap.
I agree that when wired networking is available, it is a far superior option. Streaming local video to Apple TV is nearly impossible without it.
I've never run into any issues with their DRM, but I guess I haven't pushed it that far. What happened for you? I bought K9 in the sale, $350 NZD which to me is ridiculous value for what you get. I'm super happy either way.
I don't understand the distaste people have regarding wired networking. In my office, I have several people who complain about the wifi having congestion. In the heart of the CBD, with tons of other networks visible. "That network cable on your desk, which I put there for you to use, plug it in and this problem goes away". They plug it in, comment on how quick and clean their network is now... then complain the next day about wifi congestion.