Is it possible to install Windows 7 Pro OEM on a PC with Windows 8/8.1?

[Jax Humanhater]

I hope reverting a system to Windows 7 from Windows 8 or 8.1 doesn't require the Retail copy of Windows 7.

Could I install an OEM version or is the motherboard binded to Windows 8?

The retail copies of 7 are expensive and rare.

BTW, my brother is looking to buy a Dell Opteron to present his thesis. He doesn't want to use Windows 8 or 8.1.

I hope all is not lost.

 

[Craig Stevenson]

You can install Windows 7 but if that copy of Windows 7 has been used before with it being OEM it may not Activate as it is Sold\Licenced for use with the original equipment, I have however changed several Mobo's and Re-Activated using the Phone option when the Auto\Internert Activation has failed.

Why Doesn't he want to use Win8\8.1?

 

[Jax Humanhater]

He, like myself, finds Windows 8 and 8.1 to be redundant in so many ways.

Time to buy another Windows 7 OEM disc.

 

[Justin Swan]

But with a quick switch (bottom left icon) you are back to the familiar Windows 7 screen anyway, so there is no need make an additional purchase?

 

[Craig Stevenson]

Just install Classic Shell and you wouldn't know Win8 existed unless you want to.

 

[Jax Humanhater]

Hmm...how to convince my brother...

 

[Craig Stevenson]

Just put it on and don't tell him, as long as he doesn't go looking for Win8 he won't know