If you are not a fan of Windows 8 but bought a new laptop which comes with Windows 8 Pro preinstalled, then you will be pleased to know that you can downgrade to Windows 7 for free. Windows 8 Pro edition comes with downgrade rights. The best thing about it is that you don't have to format your PC.
Follow these simple steps to downgrade from Windows 8 to Windows 7:
- If your laptop came with UEFI then enter its settings screen and enable the legacy boot option.
- Insert your old Windows 7 DVD and install Windows 7 as you normally do.
- Use your Windows 7 product key you are asked to enter. You don't need the product key for activating Windows 7. You need it just for the installation purpose. You can even use already used product keys of your friends.
- After the installation of Windows 7, you will be notified that your Windows 7 activation has failed because product key is already in use, which is normal in this case.
- If the "activation failed" message doesn't appear, click on the Start orb, type Activate, and click Activate Windows.
- Now you have to activate Windows 7 by phone. Call up the phone number displayed in the activation window.
- Tell them that you want to use your "downgrade rights". They will ask for your Windows 8 Pro product key, do as the guy on the phone directs you to prove that your PC or laptop has downgrade rights. Look for the key on the sticker at the back of your laptop. Don't worry you will remain the owner of the serial key and you can upgrade to Windows 8 later, anytime you want for free.
- You will be given a long activation code which you can use to activate your Windows 7 Pro copy. Use the code and enjoy your favorite operating system.
Note: Please make sure that your laptop came with the "downgrade rights" before trying this procedure.