downgrade to windows 7 without disc

[jtozier]

I am trying to use some software that is not compatible with my Windows 10. I believe my computer first had windows 7 installed when purchased. When I go to recover windows 7 it says there is no recovery files available. Does anyone have a way that I can do this?

[jtozier]

Also is the product key sticker on the bottom of my laptop my code for the windows 7 operating system?

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

If you live in the USA/Canada, you can call HP at this number, 1-800-334-5144, and order a set of W7 Pro recovery disks.

Have the serial number of the PC handy to give to the customer services rep.

The product key sticker will either be for W7 Professional, or Windows Vista Business.

You'll have to look at the key and see what's written on there.

[jtozier]

Thank you, I called and they said they could mail the CD. Do you know of anyway to get a downloadable copy. I am in a bit of a hurry. Thanks.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

If you found that you have a W7 product key...

This site claims to have genuine, unadulterated W7 ISO files for download...

https://www.heidoc.net/joomla/technology-science/microsoft/67-microsoft-windows-iso-download-tool

Click on the link labeled Windows ISO Downloader.exe

You can use either the:

 Win 7 Home/Pro SP1 (as applicable to the product key) or the (Retail version, but the  OEM key on your PC's case will work with it)

 Win 7 Home/Pro SP1 (as applicable to the product key) COEM (This version would be for what HP would have used--System Builder)

N is for European Union (EU) countries.

K is for South Korean markets.

Then you can use this tool to transfer the file to a 4 GB USB flash drive or a DVD.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/windows-usb-dvd-download-tool

[jtozier]

Thank you so much. Now one last question: I am having trouble finding out what operating system came on the computer. There is a product key but no mention of what the operating system was. It could be vista or 7 and I see that 7 has many different versions.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.

On my 6930p, the product key sticker was underneath the clear plastic business card holder.

Above the 25 character key code, there should be some identifying information.

There should be a bold type 'HP' and above that, it should say what version of Windows it is.  Windows 7 Pro OA or Windows Vista Business OA.

This is what the key should look like...this is a representative one from a Dell PC. 

The only difference would be instead of Dell, it would read HP.

If you do not see that info on there, please post the product number of your notebook.  The product number can be found on the same sticker as the serial number.

Or you can google the product number yourself and see if you can get any links with specs that state what OS the notebook came with.

Mine came with Windows Vista Business.

[jtozier]

That info is worn off or does not exist, but the sticker size and color is the same. I can read the product key just fine.

Product number is: FN042UT#ABA

[Paul_Tikkanen]

OK...You're in luck.

According to this, your notebook came with XP Professional installed, via downgrade rights from W7 Pro.

https://h10057.www1.hp.com/ecomcat/hpcatalog/specs/provisioner/99/FN042UT.htm

So the product key on your notebook is for W7 Pro.

[jtozier]

Great, and I am assuming 32-bit?