How Does Downgrade Rights for Windows 7 Work?
April 8, 2014 marked the official end of Windows XP support from Microsoft. On April 8, 2014 security updates will stop being issued for the aging but still popular operating system.
Moving forward Stealth recommends the Windows 7, 64-bit operating system as a base for all of its new and existing systems. If you still require Windows XP for your specific application it can still be provided on new orders upon request by purchasing Windows 7 and exercising your Windows 7 Downgrade rights.
Stealth can provide Windows XP for systems powered up to 3rd Generation Intel Core processors. We also highly recommend the use of up-to-date anti-virus protection to help protect against security threats since Microsoft is no longer supporting it.
How Does Downgrade Rights for Windows 7 Work?
Introduction
Windows 7 is the latest offering in desktop operating systems from Microsoft. In some cases end-users still need to operate with previous versions of O/S such as Windows XP or Vista. As part of Microsoft’s End User License Agreement (EULA), Stealth Computer is an authorized Microsoft OEM and is permitted to offer its customers the ability to run previous versions of XP or Vista Operating Systems.
How does this work? – Downgrade to Microsoft XP as an example.
Windows XP is no longer available for purchase from Microsoft. What you are purchasing is a Windows 7 Pro license with product key, installation media along with a service that allows us (with your permission) to exercise your downgrade rights. You will need to purchase a separate license for each computer ordered.
When choosing the downgrade option Stealth will preinstall Windows XP Pro, 32-Bit, SP3 on your new machine. You will not be provided with Windows XP Pro media.
What happens if I need to re-load Windows XP Pro?
As per the terms of Microsoft’s downgrade rights, we are unable to provide you with the installation media or a product key for Windows XP Pro. This is supposed to be provided by you, the end user. Since we have media and a product key on file, we utilize these as a courtesy to do the initial installation.
If you need to reinstall Windows XP Pro there are two choices detailed as follows;
Return the PC directly to Stealth Computer (The authorized OEM) for a re-installation of the O/S. Note: nominal charges may apply
or
If you wish to reload Windows XP on your own, you must obtain a copy of the genuine Microsoft Windows XP Pro installation media and a previously activated Windows XP product key. You may use any Windows XP Pro key from a previously activated system. You must use this media and product key to reinstall Windows XP Pro.
After reinstalling please do not activate via the internet. You MUST activate your installation of Windows XP Pro via Microsoft’s telephone activation line. When speaking to a representative tell them that you are exercising your downgrade rights from your Windows 7 Pro license. They will then provide you with an installation ID for you to activate your Win XP Pro re-installation.
You can find additional information on Microsoft’s downgrade rights by clicking, HERE
If you have further questions please contact Stealth.