How-To Geek Forums / Windows 8
Windows 8 replacement with Windows 7
(17 posts)
Don't think that is the case, you will need to purchase a License for Windows 7 as far as I'm aware
If you don't like the Start Screen you can get the Start Button back with this. Windows 8 ain't that bad once you get use to it, I skip the Start Screen with the below app
Just seen this so if you have Windows 8 Pro you could be in luck
This part is the kicker here: "To downgrade Windows, you’ll need a Windows 7 Professional installation disc and a valid license key for it. " So, if I have a disc and a Win7 key I can downgrade? Yeah, this is not news. I thought the question was about downgrading-in-place from 8 Pro to 7 Pro without having a Win7 key.
@LadyF: It seems that the feature is intended for Business users, so getting on the phone to MS during activation could prove to be problematic. The crux of the matter is if the key used as illustration in the article was actually a multiple-use key such as business users would have. I think I will wait and let someone else be the guinea pig. Perhaps someone will post back on here that they could use a non-business key (Win7)...but until then I think I will stay with Win8. What would happen if I borrowed a friend's disc and key only to find it deactivates their installation? (Edit: this is apparently addressed in the article, and why online activation will fail...the borrowed key is already in use). I have had problems with PC games that tempt me to downgrade, but with luck the first service pack update will help me out.
I don't think it's just for Business users, from what I have read once you have Windows 8 Pro you are entitled to downgrade to Windows 7 Pro
ISO's below, all you need is a valid Windows 7 pro license key just to get passed the installation of Windows, at least that's understanding of the article.
@gedstar: The comments at the bottom of that article point out that it does not work with everyone...I like the comment about reinstalling every 30 days, that's a riot. Then again, the comments may pertain to those specific downloads....not the downgrades we are discussing.
Digital River Windows 7 SP1 Updated Refresh Links (AUG 10, 2011)
http://www.mydigitallife.info/.....tal-river/
Well for me I'm sticking with Windows 8 pro, upgraded my PC and Laptop and installed all the Apps I use without any issues, both have SSD's. Actually like Windows 8 to me it's just like Windows 7 only faster and more secure.
And there's no point waiting for Windows 9 cause the Start Screen will be there too.
NO reason to Downgrade to Windows 7.
Install Classic Shell Start Button and use Desk Top in same old way.
http://sourceforge.net/projects/classicshell/
Example:
http://www.classicshell.net/
•Where can I find information on my Windows 8 product key?
Solution
•At Start Screen, click Desktop tile or press Windows+D to enter Desktop.
•Place your mouse in the top or lower-right corner of your display. The Charms will appear on the right side of your display. Click the Settings Charm.
•Under Settings, click "PC info."
•This brings up the system information page as shown below. In Windows Activation section, click "View details in Windows Activation."
Edit: From the support site of ASUS. In case you need it but, Raphoenix suggestion should be easy enough for you to do it yourself.
No, I can download & install the classic shell myself. My sister is the person who spoke to him and I was curious about why he would think we need the product key. Maybe she mis-understood him and he actually intends to replace windows 8 with windows 7. I need to talk to him myself.
