Windows 8 OEM allows downgrade to a lower version

From Windows 8 for OEM manufacturers, users can return to Windows 7 and Vista operating system versions, while the retail version cannot.

The downgrade rights (allowing users to replace the operating system with an older version without paying twice) only apply to Windows 8 Pro. Microsoft has stated that: "Instead of using Windows 8 Pro, you can install older versions including Windows 7 Professional and Windows Vista Business ". If you want to use Windows 8 Pro again, users can upgrade themselves at no extra charge.

Windows 8 OEM allows downgrade to a lower version Picture 1
Windows 8 Pro allows users to downgrade the operating system to Windows 7 Professional and Windows Vista Business. (Photo: Hothardware).

Windows XP Professional, one of the versions that appeared in the operating system list, was " downgraded " on Windows 7 Professional, again in the "black list" of Windows 8 Pro. The reason may be because this operating system is about to stop supporting in April 2014.

Computerworld said the downgrade rights only appear on Windows versions for OEM manufacturers. This means that users cannot downgrade the operating system on Windows 8 Pro retail version.

In addition, customers must be responsible for installing the media system on the old operating system after downgrading. The Microsoft text states: "Neither manufacturer nor Microsoft are forced to provide old software to customers. Users must install them themselves."

Microsoft's downgrade rights began to get noticed when the company launched Windows Vista in 2007. Many customers at the time were very frustrated with errors appearing on this version of the operating system.