How can I downgrade to Windows 7?

I just purchased a 17r -5721 with windows 8.  Can I downgrade?  I have a reinstall disk for windows 7 or I am willing to buy a new copy if i need to.  

How do I do it?  

Hi girlzillla,

I will be glad to help you. Yes, if the computer was pre-installed with windows 8 pro we can help you to downgrade to windows 7 pro. Request you to send me the system service tag via private message. I can check and let you know what needs to be done.

However, if the computer was not shipped with windows 8 pro you can use the windows 7 reinstallation disk that you have and do a clean reinstallation (if it’s a retail copy of windows). You may also refer the below link which might help:

http://dell.to/10tLWQl

To send a private message, click on my user name and select start conversation.

Hi sepholdem,

Request you to refer my response given in the above post. I would also suggest you to try using FN key + F2/F10/F12 combinations. If this doesn’t work you may also try using an external keyboard and check if it works.

Do reply with your answers.

the computer should be shipped this week, then I will send you the service tag. 

The re installation disk I have is for my old HP laptop.  I think i may need to purchase the windows 8 pro. 

Hi girlzillla,

Yes you can provide me the system service tag when you receive it. I will check and see if a window 8 operating system was pre-installed in the computer. I will also let you know what needs to be done.

I have a Inspiron 660s installed with Windows 8 that I purchased just over a year ago from Dell. I'd like to downgrade to Windows 7. Is this possible on this machine?

Thank you!

Service Tag removed per privacy policy by PY.

Why do you folks want to downgrade? Win 8 is an improved Win 7, lacking only the Start button. This can be added with several free or cheap utilities. You can also then boot directly to the desktop and never see the Modern Start page. There are some Modern apps that do a better job than desktop programs.

I have a Inspiron 660s installed with Windows 8 that I purchased just over a year ago from Dell. I'd like to downgrade to Windows 7. Is this possible on this machine? Thank you! Service Tag removed per privacy policy by PY.

No its not possible for you to use downgrade rights on this system as it came with Windows 8 (Home) and not Windows 8 Professional. Microsoft made downgrade rights only available for the Professional version.

If you want to install Windows 7 you will have to purchase a separate Windows license which can be quite costly. Windows 8.1 can be customised to be more like Windows 7.

I suggest you upgrade to Windows 8.1 (a free update from Windows 8) if you haven't already done so:

http://philipyip.wordpress.com/download-microsoft-windows/upgrading-to-windows-8-1-from-windows-8-0-via-the-microsoft-store/

Windows 8.1 solves many of the issues with Windows 8.0 and if you follow the customisation steps here:

http://philipyip.wordpress.com/customising-windows-8-1/

You should be able to use it pretty much like Windows 7. The Start Screen is okay if you have customised things to be where you want them and if they are made smaller.

However if you are still not happy with the Start tiles you can install Start8 and ModernMix.

http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/

http://www.stardock.com/products/modernmix/

Both of these programs are available as a trial (and far cheaper than a new Windows license). These will give you the option for a classic start menu and make apps run as Windows.

If for some reason your system has low performance and this being the reason you want to downgrade then I recommend clean installation however to do this you need to get installation media. As you reside in the US I would recommend you fill in this form to get a Windows 8.0 Reinstallation DVD:

https://www.dell.com/support/diagnostics/us/en/19/nondiagnostichome?dgc=SM&cid=266887&lid=4921161

I have the same problem, Will not use windows 8 and will not buy windows 7 and am returning the thing to Samsclub where I purchased it.

I'm going back to 7 for pop mail which 8 don't allow