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Forums › Microsoft Windows › Downgrade Windows 8 - Windows 7


11 posts

Geek
Topic # 114319 15-Feb-2013 16:03 Send private message

Just wondering if anyone has actually done this? I know its legally possible and can find some basic info from MS about it but I can't figure out how the actual process would work. 

So say I buy a new PC from HP with Windows 8 Pro OEM installed. 

How would I get Windows 7 Pro installation media and product key? Would the Windows 8 product key activate any Windows 7 Pro installation? 

The reason I'm asking is the software we make is certified for Windows 7 but we won't be able to get to certifying on Windows 8 for quite some time, meanwhile when you try and buy a new PC from any major brands they come only with Windows 8 :(

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140 posts

Master Geek
  Reply # 763149 15-Feb-2013 16:20 Send private message

I got this informationfrom my supplier.
  • Customers may downgrade to Windows 7 and re-install but
  • Windows 7 Media will not be included in the box and must be ordered from HP Support. This is a Microsoft Directive.
The bit I am not sure about is what do you use for the product key, will they issue you with a W7 product key.

I belive that only win8 pro is downgradable but dont quote me on that.

John
 



11 posts

Geek
  Reply # 763151 15-Feb-2013 16:27 Send private message

Yeah its like both MS and the manufacturers say its possible but there doesnt appear to be anyway to actually do it legally. I've got plenty of Windows 7 install media on USB or DVD etc but how do I actually purchase just a product key by itself and does my OEM purchase of Windows 8 not count in the price? Hmmm....

4461 posts

Uber Geek
  Reply # 763152 15-Feb-2013 16:27 Send private message

SATTV: I got this informationfrom my supplier.
  • Customers may downgrade to Windows 7 and re-install but
  • Windows 7 Media will not be included in the box and must be ordered from HP Support. This is a Microsoft Directive.
The bit I am not sure about is what do you use for the product key, will they issue you with a W7 product key.

I belive that only win8 pro is downgradable but dont quote me on that.

John
 


When I vista to xp, I recall I phoned microsoft, and they may have given  me a key. It was an easy process though. 

 

Zal

2 posts

Wannabe Geek
  Reply # 766062 19-Feb-2013 22:43 Send private message

Correct, pro or better.
The likes of HP are including recovery media for 8 and 7. Unpack the new PC and kick off a recovery of 7. It was already activated when I did it the other day.

Other option is to use 7 key off another box. Both a PCs are covered by their OEM stickers. That's how we were doing it for Vista to XP.

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