Considerations when demoting from Win8 to Win7

Although Windows 8.1 updates have made Microsoft's newest operating system increasingly popular, it is undeniable that Windows 8 is not for everyone. These people can consider demoting Windows 8 to Windows 7, and the process works, but requires some planning. Here are some things to consider when demoting from Windows 8 to Windows 7:

Licensing and Support

The first step back to Windows 7 is to verify your organization's licensing requirements and support demotion. If you are buying a physical PC with Windows 8 or 8.1 Professional editions, Microsoft allows you to demote directly to Windows 7 Professional or Windows 7 flagship. If your Windows 8 qualifies, you can contact the PC manufacturer for Windows 7 and product keys.

If you have Windows 8 Base Edition, or if you purchased Windows 8 license separately, you cannot perform any demotion. You will also need to purchase the required Windows 7 license. To make sure there is an installation medium, you may only get a Windows 7 product key.

Performing hardware and software libraries

One of the most important steps in the downgrade process is the execution of complex hardware and software libraries on PCs that need to be degraded.

When executing a software library, there are three main things to be aware of. First, check the compatibility of Windows 7 for each application. Don't forget utility software, such as antivirus software agent.

After confirming application compatibility, the next thing to note is how the software is installed. You cannot insert Windows 7 DVD into a Windows 8 computer to perform automatic demotion. Windows 7 requires a reinstallation. This also means that the application needs to be reinstalled. Therefore, you need some form of application media, whether it be DVD, network distribution point or other.

Finally, check your application license. Some applications may require a new license key if they are already activated on the Windows 8 PC. Identifying licensing requirements in advance is a good way to save money. If all applications require a new license, you can contact the application provider and ask for your demotion requirements, thus avoiding the expense of buying new licenses.

As for the hardware library, you should carefully check the Device Manager and list the hardware you are using. You can then find and download the hardware drivers for Windows 7. If you are running Windows 8 on a Virtual PC, you do not have to worry about this step.

Backup before Windows 8 is degraded to Windows 7

Before performing a downgrade, you should make a full backup of each desktop configuration. Many problems may occur during the downgrade, so you can use Backup to restore to Windows 8 when you have to abort the downgrade. By the way, it is not enough to make a copy of the backup. The test of backup is equally important.

Don't forget to start configuration

One of the key, but easily forgotten, steps in the downgrade process is to reconfigure the computer's BIOS. Unlike previous versions of Windows, Windows 8 uses the unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI). You need to disable UEFI and make boot legacy boot so that Windows 7 works. Method: Click on PC settings to find the General tab.

Then, click Advanced Startup, and then click UEFI Firmware Settings map. Now you can disable the security boot and enable legacy boot. This allows Windows 7 to be installed. Of course, if you are running Windows 8 on a Virtual PC, it will be simpler to simply remove and rebuild the Virtual PC instead of changing the startup type.

As you can see, there are many steps to demote to Windows 7, and the process is generally not problematic. However, it would be a good idea to test the downgrade process in a lab environment ahead of time.