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Can't add Windows 8 computer to our Domain

I just bought a laptop for our company and there is no option to join a domain. Can't windows 8 computer be added to a domain?

ASKER CERTIFIED SOLUTION

rindi

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J.R. Sitman

ASKER

I can install Windows 7 on it correct?

Skyler Kincaid

Some licenses are backwards compatible with Windows 7 but this would have been specified by the reseller so yours probably isn't. If you have Windows 7 installation media and a key you will be good to go.

Almost all computers that come with Windows 8 are able to run Windows 7 with no problems.

J.R. Sitman

ASKER

Great. We have the key and licenses

J.R. Sitman

ASKER

Do you know what function key to push to get an HP laptop to give me the boot choices?

rindi

You will need a Windows 7 License to be able to install that (and also then you will need at least Windows 7 pro in order to be able to add it to a domain).

You are only entitled to a free upgrade to Windows 7 (m$ calls that "downgrade") if you have at least Windows 8 pro on that PC, so with yours you can't get Windows 7 for free.

If you want to install a retail version of Windows 7, you should first check the PC's manufacturer's site for drivers for Windows 7. If there aren't any available there, you could have problems finding the correct drivers.

Your probably best option therefore is to buy a Windows 8 pro upgrade (you should be able to do that online by using the control panel, there is an option to add features to windows 8 there).

J.R. Sitman

ASKER

thanks