FAQ
TL;DR: Yes—if your Windows 10 Pro license has downgrade rights. Windows 7 support ended on 14 Jan 2020, and "Windows 7 support has ended." Expect phone activation and driver checks. [Windows 7 support has ended]
Why it matters: Lenovo Y510p owners and admins need clear, licensed paths to run legacy apps without avoidable security or compliance risks.
Quick Facts
- Eligible licenses: Windows 10 Pro OEM/Volume include downgrade rights to Windows 7 Professional; Retail/FPP does not. *Licensing brief: Downgrade rights*
- Lifecycle: Windows 7 extended support ended on 14 Jan 2020; no regular security updates are delivered. *Windows 7 support has ended*
- Activation: Online activation can fail when downgrading; use the automated phone system to complete activation. *Activate Windows 7*
- Media: Microsoft’s ISO download requires a valid Windows 7 key; OEM keys are redirected to the device manufacturer. *Download Windows 7 Disc Images (ISO Files)*
Can I downgrade Windows 10 Pro to Windows 7 Professional on my Lenovo Y510p?
Yes, if your Windows 10 Pro license carries downgrade rights. OEM and Volume licenses include these rights. Retail (FPP) licenses do not. You may install Windows 7 Professional using qualifying media and then activate. Keep proof of your Windows 10 Pro license for activation. Licensing brief: Downgrade rights
Does a retail Windows 10 Pro product key include downgrade rights?
No. Retail (FPP) Windows desktop licenses do not include downgrade rights. OEM and Volume licenses do. If you only have a retail key, using it to license Windows 7 fails downgrade terms. Obtain an eligible license if you need to downgrade. Licensing brief: Downgrade rights
How do I perform a compliant downgrade to Windows 7 Pro?
- Verify your Windows 10 Pro license is OEM or Volume (eligible for downgrade rights).
- Obtain Windows 7 Professional media and a product key appropriate to your channel.
- Install Windows 7 Professional and activate, using phone activation if online activation fails.
Keep documentation of your qualifying license. Licensing brief: Downgrade rights
Where can I download a genuine Windows 7 ISO?
Use Microsoft’s official Windows 7 ISO download page and enter a valid Windows 7 product key. The site may reject OEM keys and direct you to the PC manufacturer for recovery media. If redirected, request media from your OEM. Avoid untrusted ISO sources. Download Windows 7 Disc Images (ISO Files)
Do I still get security updates on Windows 7?
No. Windows 7 support ended on January 14, 2020, so regular security updates are no longer provided. Microsoft recommends moving to a supported version of Windows to remain secure. Running Windows 7 connected to the internet increases exposure to threats. Windows 7 support has ended
Is buying a Windows 7 key from Lizengo or similar EU stores safe?
A forum user reports Lizengo operates from Germany and issues German invoices. Cross‑border purchases may require adding 23% VAT in Poland. They also note PayU payments are available. Verify invoices, taxes, and documentation before purchase. Keep records for audits. [Elektroda, funak, post #17179083]
Do I need original Windows 7 media and a COA sticker to be compliant?
A forum view holds that without original media, you cannot legally acquire Windows; a sticker alone is insufficient. That stance emphasizes matching media to its license. Confirm requirements with your reseller or Microsoft before buying used licenses or media. [Elektroda, funak, post #17179737]
Can my Windows 10 Pro license downgrade to Windows 7 Ultimate?
No. Downgrade rights map to the same edition family. Windows 10 Pro downgrades to Windows 7 Professional, not Ultimate. Choose Professional if you plan to exercise downgrade rights. Licensing brief: Downgrade rights
What features does Windows 7 Ultimate add over Professional?
Ultimate adds BitLocker and BitLocker To Go for drive encryption. It also adds AppLocker, DirectAccess, BranchCache, multilingual UI packs, and boot from VHD. If you need these enterprise features, consider Ultimate; otherwise, Professional is typically sufficient. Compare Windows 7 editions
How do I activate Windows 7 after a downgrade?
Attempt online activation first. If it fails, use the automated phone system from the Activation wizard. Keep proof of your qualifying Windows 10 Pro license. If prompted, speak to an agent and state you are exercising downgrade rights. They can complete activation. Activate Windows 7
Should I call Microsoft support before I start?
Yes. A forum participant advises calling the Microsoft hotline to confirm steps. “The hotline does not bite and they speak in Polish.” Verifying your specific license and activation path can prevent issues later. [Elektroda, funak, post #17178939]
What’s a safer alternative to downgrading for legacy apps?
Use virtualization on Windows 10 Pro with Hyper‑V. Create a Windows 7 virtual machine for the legacy app and keep it isolated. This preserves host security while maintaining app compatibility. Hyper‑V is included with Windows 10 Pro. Enable Hyper-V on Windows 10
Would you recommend any store? You know it is different. I don't even think about the Allegro. 
Where to buy Windows 7 Professional with the disc?
