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General discussion

Windows 8 just isn't my thing, can I install Windows 7 over

Jan 25, 2013 6:58AM PST
Question:

Windows 8 just isn't my thing, can I install Windows 7 over 8?


I just bought a new PC that came with Windows 8 and it is just too
different for me and my wife. We'd like to go back one step and install
Windows 7 over it. Is this possible to do? And if it is, can you tell
me exactly what the procedures are and what version of Windows 7 (upgrade or full version)
is needed to accomplish this? Thank you for your help.


--Submitted by: Gary G.

Discussion is locked

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Plus
Jan 25, 2013 7:44PM PST

You forgot to mention to backup any data that you already have on the computer and after you install Windows 7 you will need to reinstall any software that you use (like Office) and reinstall your printer and any other hardware. And then you will need to install some security software.

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WINDOWS 8
Jan 25, 2013 9:44AM PST

I have a real good computer guy - he says he would not install windows 8 on any computer but if you buy it new with win8 and try to do an install yourself you may mess up some of the software that was designed for win 8 - its better to spend the money and take it to a certificated microsoft computer technican to replace win 8 with win 7 - you would have to probably buy the win7 operating system so it would be legal -

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WHAT?
Jan 26, 2013 12:11AM PST

Your, real good, computer guy DOESN'T recommend a faster safer OS? Does he think YOU are incapable of adapting?

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(NT) Your real good computer guy is a fraud.
Jan 28, 2013 12:58PM PST
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Downgrading from Windows 8 to Windows 7
Jan 25, 2013 9:49AM PST

I truly feel for you on this one. I have had a lot of clients express the same dislike for Windows 8. It is not so much that it is bad but different and it does get better as you gain a better understanding of it as get accustom to the new interface, but I agree, it still is a bit of a pain. BUT, before you attempt to downgrade to Windows 7 (which is not for the faint of heart), please download and install one of the following programs and see if it makes Windows a bit more familiar to you and easier to use. I have had many clients find that using one of these is the perfect fix.

1. Start8 - http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/ This program is free to try for 14 days and then if you want to keep it you will have to pay $4.99 to keep it.

2. Classic Shell - http://www.classicshell.net/ This program is totally free and allows you to create a start menu that looks and feels just like Windows XP or Windows 7 (your choice).

If you still find that you do not like Windows 8, then you have 3 options:

1. Return the computer - If the computer is brand new, then just return it and order a computer online from Dell or some other manufacturer that still offers Windows 7. Most Manufacturers still offer Windows 7 on their business class computers.

2. Purchase Windows 7 - Purchase and install Windows 7, You will have to backup any data that you have and basically install from scratch the Windows 7 operating system and all your programs, printers and hardware. You can still get Windows 7 online.

3. Upgrade to Windows 8 Pro and then downgrade - Microsoft offers a downgrade license if you have the professional version of Windows 8. If you have Windows 8 Home Premium then you will first need to upgrade to the professional version of 8 and then go thru the steps to downgrade to Windows 7. This is not an easy thing to do and it requires that you already have a Windows 7 OEM installation disk hanging around because you cannot get it from Microsoft.

If you want to read more about this process PC World had a fairly comprehensive write up about it here:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2015107/downgrading-from-windows-8-to-7-what-you-need-to-know.html
In the end, if you really want to downgrade to Windows 7, I would probably just recommend taking to someone to do it for you. I have not found an easy way for the average computer user to do this on his or her own.

Dana
Wayland Computer

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One more minor hint
Feb 1, 2013 8:39AM PST

OK, please, check also 8Gadget maybe getting a slight step more comfortable with the old Win7 desktop ...

Best regards,

Pete V.

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Does Win 8 qualify as an OS to "upgrade" from to Win 7?
Feb 1, 2013 9:04AM PST

I have 1 or 2 unused Windows Home Premium upgrade licenses from a 3 pack. The EULA lets me upgrade from XP or Vista. Do you have any idea if Windows 8 Pro might qualify, for a clean "upgrade" to 7 Home Premium?

I probably won't do it because, after 24 hours with the beast, I'm willing to work around the irritating Windows 8 features. As you suggest, one of the alternative shells looks like a good solution.

As a desktop user, I think it was a stunningly poor decision on Microsoft's part to not include a switch such as there is in XP to use the "Classic" Win 2K interface, which I still consider a high point of GUI usability. I would just like a Win 8 Classic interface that mimics Win 7, which seems to be there under the new and wretched tablet interface.
.

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Reply to Photon_junkie
Feb 1, 2013 2:18PM PST

If all you want is to go directly to the Win 7 start menu and the look and feel of Win 7 other than Aero translucency, check out Classic Start Menu.

You can't "upgrade" from Win 8 to Win 7. All the retail upgrade versions check for an eligible Windows operating system and don't consider a newer version eligible (i.e., you can't upgrade from Vista to XP, Win 7 to Vista, etc.) You can't even upgrade back a service pack (use a Svc Pack 2 disk to do a reinstall over Svc Pack 3).

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Try To Learn It First
Feb 2, 2013 1:57PM PST

There has to be a Windows 8 for Dummies out there. Believe me if I can learn an operating system you can. Otherwise, I'd go with Dana's suggestion about the Classic Shell site and run it like W7. I've had W7 for months now and it works like a charm.

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windows 8 LOL
Feb 3, 2013 9:02AM PST

Have been working on a laptop for 4 days now trying to go from windows 8 to 7 ultimate. Put in new hard drive changed set up to bios to be able to boot off windows 7 and install its on a brand new Compaq CQ58-bf9wm windows installed with the exception of video drivers, Ethernet drivers, wi fi drivers and PCIE controller. never an issue before went to HP driver downloads put in the pc and when choosing op system only 8 was an option went to a third party to download drivers for 7 and when trying to install them they run but there no where to be found. The problem lies in the chip set downloaded the chip set for 7 and after install it said system does not meet min requirements. even went to hard ware manufactures for drivers and they would not work either at this point called Compaq for support. and the best advice they could offer was to contact the geek squad OMG LOL so I contacted Microsoft at that point and the tech brightened my day when he told me he had to install a 3rd party app for his girl friend to give her a start bar like windows 7 and that there is nothing that can be done until Compaq supply's windows 7 drivers for this laptop . Way to Shove windows 8 down our throats Microsoft.

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Start 8 UI Might make it friendler.
Jan 25, 2013 9:50AM PST

Hi, have you considered Start8 from Star Dock? It gives you the old Windows 7 UI that is familiar to the older Os' and you can still access Windows 8 and get the benefits like lightening fast start up and shut downs, and other goodies. Just an idea.

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Get an OEM copy of Windows 7
Jan 25, 2013 10:02AM PST

Hi, if you want to go to Windows 7, as far as I know you can't use the upgrade version. Get an OEM version and install it. If you have and files you want to save then back them up on a flash drive or another Hard drive, as you will lose them. Drivers shouldn't be an issue as windows 7 has a pretty good library of drivers, but you can always go to the manufacturer's site and get the the latest version.

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Windows 8 isn't my thing
Jan 25, 2013 10:43AM PST

My brother suggested I d/l Google Chrome and the Classic Start button.
I did both of these and for me, my Windows 8 nightmares is a tad better.
I still have a huge problem downloading anything.
But I have to agree with you; Windows 8 is a nightmare. I have a cousin
that works for a computer store/business and after checking with other IT's
everyone agrees: Win 8 is for tech-savy people.
I have four books on Win 8 which hasn't helped me at all.

Good luck, Jinkx

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Odd
Jan 26, 2013 12:25AM PST

1. Windows 8 is the fastest, safest Windows version so far.
2. Windows 8 can do ANYTHING Windows 7 can do better.
3. While Microsoft changed WHERE you find the computer settings, as usual, they are still there.
4. ANYONE can make Windows 8 look and feel lik Windows 7 IF they chose NOT to learn.

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You need to rethink this
Feb 1, 2013 9:32AM PST

Your number 4 comment is judgmental,harsh and moralistic. No one will pay any attention to remarks that appear to be moralistic and elitist, even though there might be some truth to them. Everything you say is either a truism: "Microsoft changed Where you find the computer settings" or subjective: "Windows 8 can do ANYTHING Windows 7 can do better."

If you wish to make an argument, you might present your information in a way that will appeal to others and persuade them rather than putting them down and bludgeoning them into submission.

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Windows 7 instead of 8
Jan 25, 2013 10:43AM PST

I'm not sure I should offer a suggestion, but here goes. If you want to run Windows 7, maybe you could burn a copy of your Windows 8 operating system to a DVD or 2, just so you have your own copy to reinstall at a later time. After you have your own copy of Windows 8 on a couple discs, then maybe you could uninstall it first, and then install Windows 7 if that's what you want to run. Just a suggestion. Not sure if it's a good idea for you but that's what I'd consider. On second thought, maybe you'll need a working operating system to be able to run the PC. I'm thinking Firefox-Mozilla should be in there too. Not sure if you can put 7 in there with the 8 before you remove 8. The Geek Squad boys seem to like Windows 8. They think it's ok. Has a few quirks, but they say it's ok. Personally, I'm using Windows 7 and I am not switching for a while, maybe not till I have to. At least till they find a bunch of bugs during the next year and fix them. I am going to buy the Windows 8 upgrade now. I have a copy set aside for me at Best Buy, with the DVD inside the box. That's so I get the better price now, $70.00 for the Pro version upgrade, before it goes up to $200.00 in February, and have my own hard copy too. But I don't think I'm going to use it for quite awhile.

Of course if you go with 7, you will have to buy it or get another license for one you may have now. And if you go back to 8 later, You'd have to use the one you have now and maybe uninstall the 7. So you want to keep your version of 8 or a new one might cost more than $200.00 later on. The $200.00 price is only to upgrade after January 31 from 7. I haven't installed my own Windows on anything yet so you might want to get another opinion about the feasability of doing this first. I'm just thinking this is how I would do it. More likely I'd have one of the geeks do it to be sure it got done right. I'm thinking it might even be covered by my tech support warranty. I think software installs are covered. Had a crash. They reinstalled 7, for free. Thank God for Carbonite. Thank God for the hardware protection too. New motherboard, hard drive, burner,..... covered.

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Get Winows 7 function, while using Windows 8
Feb 1, 2013 9:31AM PST

Very easy to do, you download Classic Startmenu right here on Cnet. And once you get use to Windows 8, you'll really enjoy it.

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(NT) Read:http://www.howtogeek.com/133168/how-to-downgrade-window
Jan 25, 2013 11:00AM PST
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It May Be Easier Said Than Done
Jan 25, 2013 11:07AM PST

Hi Gary

I'll keep this very short as I will be referring you to step-by-step articles on how to accomplish your task. Also, know that the path to downgrade to Windows 7 from Windows 8 (from what I have learned) is only possible on a system purchased as follows:

The Windows version must be Windows 8 Pro which comes with downgrade rights.

The question remains can you take a system that was purchased with Windows 8 and then upgraded to Windows 8 Pro and downgrade it to Windows 7? Although not definitive all of the information I have read thus far would suggest not.

I have provided three (3) links with information for your review:

Microsoft Windows 8 OEM Downgrade Rights Management
http://www.microsoft.com/oem/en/licensing/sblicensing/pages/downgrade_rights.aspx#fbid=z_poLjOj_z8

How-to's on Windows 8 to Windows 7 downgrade
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2015107/downgrading-from-windows-8-to-7-what-you-need-to-know.html

To be fair one could always wipe the HD and install a copy of Windows 7...right? Well...yes and no. Assuming you are able to throughly wipe your HD there remain settings that must be changed in the BIOS on a system originally configured for Windows 8. See the link that follows:

http://www.howtogeek.com/133168/how-to-downgrade-windows-8-pro-to-windows-7/

Gary, before you make your move please read the experiences/suggestions of other members who at first felt as you do about Windows 8 but later discovered how to make it work for them. The process you are contemplating is not easy (although some will disagree).

There remains the question as to whether or not Windows 7 will afford full functionality (albeit the performance shortcomings may be very subtle) on a system built-for Windows 8. Windows 8 is radical departure from the Window OS's of the past that
shared similar algorithms which means some of the internal operations are radically different as well, although not noticeable to the typical end-user as should they not be.

Gary, I hope you find the information useful. Good luck!

Together Everyone Achieves More

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Not Completely Right
Feb 1, 2013 8:01AM PST

As long as you have a PC capable of supporting Win 7 you can install it if you own it. You don't need to have a certified Win 8 pro pc.

@gary- forget about install this or that. That was not what you asked. As a person that works in IT installed Win 8 on a spare pc when the developer preview came out and still HATED it. I think it's great on a touch only device.
So to answer your question: buy win 7, back up your files and settings, write down all devices you have. System board, processor, hard drive, etc. Insert the install DVD and blow 8 away and use what you want and like! If reinstalling an os is not you forte, please find a reputable and certified shop in your area for assistance. If you can't find someone I'll be happy to assist you remotely.

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Great response
Feb 1, 2013 8:23AM PST

As an IT myself I agree with this suggestion, then again I moved away from windows all together and got myself a google chrome book and very happy no hassles no mess and best of all no microsoft.
As well know window 8 is still new and those that use windows, should know by now when a new os rolks out there will be kinks and dreads of people pounding there head. Got to love the methid of the me to sydrom.

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What's Not Completely Right???
Feb 1, 2013 9:55PM PST

If you inadvertently posted under my post then disregard this reply. If you intentionally posted under my post then I have a few comments....

No where in my post did I say..."that one needs a certified Windows 8 Pro PC to install Windows 7" . What I said/implied was....that my research indicates that one may take a Win8 PC (Basic or Pro) and wipe the HD and install a Full Version of Win7. I went on to say that a PC built originally as a Win8 (after installing Win7) will require setting changes in the BIOS which to be correct is now replaced by what Microsoft calls the Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). So, unless Gary or anyone else is comfortable in making changes in the UEFI it's a task better left to a more experienced user or professional.

Also, I never advocated (in my post)...as you implied...Gary install "this or that". Although I would not (as you suggested) completely disregard a suggestion by others in this forum that installation of a particular "App" which may make Gary's Win8 experience more enjoyable.

Finally, there are going to be those who like Win8 and those who don't regardless of whether or not they have a touch screen interface. Frankly, I can't remember any Microsoft OS wherein everyone was either left or right on user friendliness. I personally operate in a Win7 and Mac environment. Both have their pluses and minuses. I'm looking forward to upgrading one my PC's to Win8. I personally know from experience that Win8 is smoother in a touch screen interface but not so much so that it can't be made to work on a non-touch screen if one wants to get some of the other enhancements not available in Win7.

If I read your post correctly your opinion of Windows 8 stems from a "developers" release preview (DRP)? It's been my experience that the DRP versions are buggy and that near-definitive judgement should be withheld until the RC1 version. I say this because of your strong intimation that you "HATED it" which I can only assume was derived from a non-touch interface PC experience supported by your comment that Win8 is "great on a touch only device".

It was not my intent to be offensive...I just wanted to clarify my comments which I believe you read incorrectly. Good Luck and Happy Computing.

Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM)

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Window 8 to Windows 7
Feb 1, 2013 11:24PM PST

Another way is to wipe or have Window 8 wiped and install or have installed Window 7 not the cheapest option but it may save you from throwing a very expensive PC across the room in frustration. That is what I had done for my Mrs and now she has a PC that she can use.

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Windows 8 can be doctored
Jan 25, 2013 12:20PM PST

If you want to load Windows 7, you would have to purchase a full version of Windows 7, and not the upgrade version -- if you can find them. I would make a system restore disk before proceeding to install Windows 7.

I agree that MicroSoft made a mistake with Windows 8 by trying to merge a portable operating system with a standard desktop operating system. This partially turns a desktop or laptop PC into a notepad/smartphone. To use Windows 8 properly, you need more expensive hardware including a touch screen. This makes Win 8 somewhat schizophenic, particularly on a desktop PC. Even with a touch screen, I don't have it close enought to use its touchscreen.

M/Sft also made it harder to do some basic tasks, such as turning off the computer or doing a system search, hiding toolbars and features beyond the edge of the screen. I purchased a Lenovo convertible tablet/laptop with Windows 8 in the hopes the touchscreen would make it more accessible, but returned it within days. So, I can fully appreciate your desire to return to Windows 7.

However, Win 8 does have some advantages and include a Windows 7 style desktop. The problem is that Windows loads to the new tiled start screen and there is no start button on the classic desktop. There are several pieces of free-ware and cheap software which returns the functionality of the classic start button and sets the classic desktop as the starting screen - as it should be. You can find a description at http://www.thewindowsclub.com/start-menu-windows-8.

Good luck.

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You do not need touchscreen to run Win 8 effectively!
Jan 28, 2013 1:02PM PST

A keyboard and mouse work quite well on my laptop. Did not want touchscreen on it, and don't miss it. You need touch on a tablet, not a PC.

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You might want to check this out
Jan 25, 2013 12:48PM PST

Some Windows 8 PCs come with what are called "downgrade rights." If your PC comes with Windows 8 Pro, you can downgrade to Windows 7 Pro just by installing it on top of your existing OS. You'll need a legitimate disc and product key, but you can just use an old or used one—after you install, you can call Microsoft and they'll activate your downgrade for you. You can even downgrade multiple machines with the same CD and key.

Not all computers come with downgrade rights, so be sure to do a bit of research before you try this out or buy your new Windows 8 computer. It can be a bit of a hassle, but it's a nice option if you really want to keep using Windows 7.

Link to this article: http://lifehacker.com/5974318/downgrade-your-new-windows-8-computer-to-windows-7-for-free

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Win 8 to Win 7
Feb 20, 2013 6:41AM PST

Can anything Be more annoying than taking my hands off the keyboard to touch something on the screen,?
MS, keep your development for the phones TO the phone department. Getting rid of the mouse would be nice too.

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Think out of the window
Jan 25, 2013 1:07PM PST

Do what I'm considering so strongly. Go Mac this time. Learning to use it will be less of a job than a new Windows OS anyway, and you'll like the faster processing, minimal security issues tying up money and resources, and superior customer service.

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Oops
Jan 25, 2013 1:13PM PST

My bad. No edit function on this forum apparently. My response is no solution unless you can get a refund on your PC. Sorry for my knee-jerk answer. Reckon I'm just so fed up with Windows of any version, my brain is fried.