“If you’re pining for Windows 7 or 8.1, it’s usually possible to downgrade your copy of Windows”
First, if you upgraded your PC to Windows 10 from an older version of Windows, restoring that version should be straightforward in the sense you can use your manufacturer’s recovery partition if it still holds the original version, or you can try installing from an old, unused copy of Windows 7 or 8.1 – just follow the guides to preparing and reinstalling Windows earlier on in this feature. Do source the correct drivers for your PC first, though, and verify that your new software is backwards compatible (desktop apps should be, but Microsoft Store apps won’t work in Windows 7, and some may not work in Windows 8.1 either).
If your PC came with Windows 8.1 or 10 preinstalled, then going back to Windows 7 will be trickier and possibly even impossible. Before embarking on this, check the web to see if others have had similar success. You’ll need to source your own Windows 7 installation media and valid licence, and you’ll almost certainly need to have access to your PC’s UEFI settings – if Fast Boot is enabled, open Settings > ‘Update & recovery’ and click ‘Restart now’ under ‘Advanced start-up’. When prompted, select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > UEFI Firmware Settings.
Once inside your PC’s UEFI settings you need to locate and change three settings. First, disable the Fast Boot feature. Second, disable Secure Boot. And finally, look for a CSM (Compatibility Support Module) option and make sure it’s enabled. All three settings need to be made to support Windows 7 – if you can’t find them, consult with your PC or motherboard manufacturer.
Once done, you should find you’re able to boot from your Windows 7 installation media, enabling you to revert to the earlier copy of Windows.
SET UP A DUAL-BOOT PC
Our final scenario is one where you install two versions of Windows side-by-side. This is a step for advanced users only, and if you’re merely planning to install an older version of Windows next to Windows 10 for compatibility purposes, explore alternative options, namely setting up a virtual Windows 7 machine using a tool such as VirtualBox ( www.virtualbox.org), which runs inside your main Windows installation.
If you are determined to dual-boot your setup, the step-by-step guide on the facing page covers the process of installing an older version of Windows alongside your current one.