change os

[Derrr]

This laptop currently has Windows 7pro as its operating system and I am unhappy with it  . . .  want to use Windows 7 Home Premium (original factory os) instead  . . .  what steps do I need to take to make this change in my operating system?  Can I change it without having to make any kind of purchase?

[Lorenzo20051984]

If I understand well, you purchased a new laptop with Win 7 Home Premium already installed, then tried Win 7 Pro, and now you want to revert back to Home Premium? I think the only way you have is to format and reinstall the original os from usb or cd (keep of course the Win activation key that came with the laptop). Cheers!

[IT_WinSec · Accepted solution]

Hi @Derrr

Welcome to the HP Support forum. Thank you for posting.

I will try to help you.

I am afraid there is no way to downgrade from Pro version to Home Premium without reinstalling Windows. I am not sure what makes you unhappy about Pro vs Home, there is not much difference for day-to-day usage. Let me know if you want.

Official procedure:

>> Use HP Recovery media -> this is the one for your PC >> http://www.computersurgeons.com/p-22037-windows-7-64b-recovery-kit-667564-001-for-hp-notebook-pc-mod...

Costs ~27 USD

Once you receive it, you need to boot from the 1st disc and reinstall Windows. Note that this will erase all of the data on your HDD. How to use it >> http://hp.dezide.com/ts/start.jsp?guide=HPSystemRecovery.net&section=ccweb&sfs=tdoc&lc=en&language=e...

Unofficial procedure - cheap/free - not officially supported - might be slightly more difficult from technical point of view

May only work if you have Windows 7 COA sticker attached to your PC (usually on the bottom) and if it is readable

You can use this free utility

>> https://www.heidoc.net/php/Windows%20ISO%20Downloader.exe

>> https://www.heidoc.net/joomla/technology-science/microsoft/67-microsoft-windows-and-office-iso-downl...

The tool will download ISO images from Microsoft and has lots of options for many Windows versions including OEM. If you use it, be careful to select the correct Windows ISO for the OEM, x86 or x64 edition, Home/Pro/Ultimate, etc...

When download completes, you will need to write or "burn" the ISO image and boot from a bootable media.

** How to create bootable ISO on USB device >> http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop/create-a-usb-stick-on-windows

or

** How to write ISO to DVD >> http://www.ubuntu.com/download/desktop/burn-a-dvd-on-windows

 instructions are for Ubuntu, but you need to use the ISO image of Windows

When ready with the USB drive or with the DVD:

Please, shutdown the computer using the power button.

Insert the Windows USB thumdrive or the DVD prepared previously

Power  on the PC.

As soon as you press the power-on button, keep hitting the Esc button (like tap-tap-tap).

This should open a HP Startup Menu

Choose F9 to open Boot options. Select the thumb drive or the DVD as a boot option.

Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows. Delete all existing partitions and install Windows on Disk 0 Unallocated space

Install drivers taken from HP web site when Win installation completes

Let me know if this helps. Provide your feedback and let me know if you face difficulties