EG, try to read a CDROM that is slightly damaged, the whole system will freeze until you eject the disc. I think it's time that MS address this issue if not in W8 already.

Hi, I would recommend you test the issue in Clean Boot and check if there is some software conflicts. Install all the updates and drivers provided by Windows Update.Tracy Cai TechNet Community Support

The issue has been preset since win 3.0. It's not a conflict issue (afaik). Anyone can try it by selecting A: in explorer and you'll notice a 1sec or so time that the system will be unresponsive. That same 'issue' with accessing A: will also occur when attempting to read CD's, especially when CDROM is scratched. So, instead of windows continuing to operate, some reason the system will slow to a crawl until a response can be had from drive x. thanks!