If you are like me you’ve become quite attached to Windows 7. The interface is familiar, but it’s functional and does most of what I need it to do. However, Microsoft has decided to change a lot of how Windows works by removing the start button and switching to the Windows 8 interface which is optimized for touchscreen and multi-touch trackpads.
So what do you now if you want to buy a new computer and it comes with Windows 8? Microsoft has an answer for you. Get the Pro version of Windows 8 and you’ll be allowed to use your license key to downgrade to Windows 7 or Windows Vista. Make sure you get Pro though because you won’t be able to pay Microsoft later for the downgrade rights if you have the regular version of Windows 8 installed by the manufacturer.
Now this process won’t be as easy as just clicking a downgrade button, as you will need to fully install Windows 7 (along with finding drivers and software for your computer), but it does provide an option for those of us unwilling to make the switch to Windows 8.
~Tim
Wow! That was great info to know Tim. Thank you. Specially since I just bought our grandaughter a laptop yesterday with 8 on it.
Hey while I have you here– maybe you could help me out.
How do I add another computer to our home network? What passwords should I use where? And yes,I admit- Iam not as smart as a 5th grader when it comes to computers.
Thank you for your time.
The best advice I can give is to let her do it. A few years ago, when our grand daughter was seven, she won an iPod at a school fundraiser. She called me and proudly announced: “I have my own iPod now, Papa. I can teach you how to use yours!” No kidding. …and she was right. The same thing happened last summer (she was ten) when she taught my wife how to use features of her Samsung Galaxy S2 smartphone(android, so it’s not just that apple is easier) !