Win7 to Win XP...possible?

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tiekie

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Hi All

Recently got myself the HP Compaq Presario CQ56 notebook with Windows 7 starter edition....can I downgrade to Windows XP Pro and how can I do that?

Thanks in advance!
 
If you had business or higher you could have legally downgraded to XP PRO. With starter edition you would have to buy XP home/PRO if you wish to run it legally.

With most higher-end laptops the downgrade disks are supplied. (note I said MOST)
 
tiekie said:
Hi All

Recently got myself the HP Compaq Presario CQ56 notebook with Windows 7 starter edition....can I downgrade to Windows XP Pro and how can I do that?

Thanks in advance!
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How is that laptop? Still waiting for mine, guess you got yours on that Vodacom contract deal.

But anyway, got the wife a G550 Lenova last week that also came with Windows 7 and unless you plan to play one or two games that don't under Win7 like Myst, I would rather stick with Win7 Starter. Very happy with it and works much better than XP Pro. I never thought I would say that, I actually kept my desktop on XP Pro and refused to upgrade after I saw Vista, now I'm tempted to get Win7 Starter for my kids PC I'm building up.
 
@Venomous....I do have a legal copy of Win XP Pro can I just install it or do I first have to format? Thanks

@cbrunsdonza...yes got it from Vodacom and it working OK can't find any issues however some of my applications won't run under Win 7 Starter Ed
 
tiekie said:
@Venomous....I do have a legal copy of Win XP Pro can I just install it or do I first have to format? Thanks

@cbrunsdonza...yes got it from Vodacom and it working OK can't find any issues however some of my applications won't run under Win 7 Starter Ed
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During install you can get it to format.

Just remember to get the XP drivers for the laptop before you start.
 
Not so sure how to do it on the lappie, but first burn two separate copies of the Windows7 install discs for when you want to reinstall Win7 or resell the lappie. You can also use VirtualBox for your XP under Win7 if its just basic apps without any hectic graphics requirements.

Or you can also repartition/resize your Win7 and dual boot XP/Win7 - I did a Win7/Ubuntu setup for the wifes laptop and plan to do the same for mine, might even do an XP partition too (also got a legal copy).
 
You will have to format , backup your files and download the xp drivers first.
 
@cbrunsdonza...thanks for the link, eish now I have to get rid of this laptop
Thanks to all others that replied.
 
Yup, this is a bummer for me too as I'm also getting this lappie. Will just have to pass it onto my daughter and hold thumbs she can play her Sims3 on it or use it as a door stop :) - good excuse to get an i5 for the next laptop
 
OK so what is good price for this laptop because I need to sell it and get myself something that can runs under Win XP
 
cbrunsdonza said:
Yup, this is a bummer for me too as I'm also getting this lappie. Will just have to pass it onto my daughter and hold thumbs she can play her Sims3 on it or use it as a door stop :) - good excuse to get an i5 for the next laptop
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CNA had a good special on Dell i5's not long ago (good specs too) they were priced at R3999. & eventually paid R3699 coz the CPU was a lil slower than advertised. (not sure if it was only in the store here near me, saw it instore) 17" LCD - the special was a few weeks ago
 
tiekie said:
OK so what is good price for this laptop because I need to sell it and get myself something that can runs under Win XP
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look for the prices of laptops with Win7 business or higher ( specifically look at - is a downgrade possible) or alternatively buy a good used laptop form a reputable used/refurbished dealer.
 
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Why are you so intent on using XP? If it;s just for apps, Virtual Box could be an easy alternative.
 
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/virtual-pc/download.aspx

Do I need Windows XP Mode?
Windows 7 has several built-in tools to help with program compatibility and Windows XP programs should be installed directly on Windows 7. Windows XP Mode runs many older Windows XP productivity programs and that are not natively compatible with Windows 7, thus helping realize cost savings and reduce possible operational downtime by extending the life of existing software
 
Yeah, but Windows XP mode is not available in Windows 7 starter: If you try and run an incompatible app like the game Myst IV, it bombs out even when setting it to XP mode.
 
cbrunsdonza said:
Yeah, but Windows XP mode is not available in Windows 7 starter: If you try and run an incompatible app like the game Myst IV, it bombs out even when setting it to XP mode.
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Thought he might upgrade to Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, or Ultimate. Don't know what it costs or how good XP mode actually is.
 
Milano said:
Thought he might upgrade to Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, or Ultimate. Don't know what it costs or how good XP mode actually is.
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And what sux with Win7 starter is its a 32bit version and the only upgrade path is a new OS purchase. I've been warned about hicups with the anytime upgrade program - also you cannot upgrade 32bit Win7 starter to 64bit Home Premium or Prof
 
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