Windows 7: Installed the wrong version for my key

I told someone I would ask here. They apparently goofed a reinstall and I couldn't answer this. Anyway below is his post:

"I incorrectly read the instructions and assumed that I could install any version with my home premium key. So I installed Ultimate edition. 5 days later an activation reminder came up.

Now I'm stuck without being able to restore my activation and can't activate with the key I have.



Is there any other option besides reinstalling the OS that I can do ? Is there a way to 'downgrade' ultimate to home premium without loosing everything? Thanks for any suggestions."

Any suggestions?

You will have to re-install the OS and choose The Home Premium Version...

You can not downgrade from Ultimate to Home Premium..

You will also have to backup your data as it will be erased when you re-install..

You could try Windows 7's backup feature...To back everything up..if you have a lot of files and folders..

Hope this Helps..

EDIT: You should be able to re-install your OS with the same key, Just make sure you install it under Windows 7 Home Premium..Do you have the DVD?

My suggetion is to call Microsoft, explain the problem. I am sure that they will make some sort of concession. They may send you a DVD for shipping cost.

Upgrade the Windows 7 RC to any retail version Icrontic Tech

Many people have used this popular workaround to downgrade from the RC (which is Ultimate) to lesser versions. All report success with excellent performance.

It should work fine for your friend. If not, do the clean install.

My question is how did you get an ultimate version with a Home Premium key, or maybe I shouldn't ask!

All the versions of Windows 7 are on your Disk, Home, Pro, Ultimate (If you got the Full/Upgrade Retail Disk) If you got the computer from a manufacturer then you get what you get, unless you do the Windows Anytime Upgrade..

For the full version the key decides what version you will run, If you don't put in a key when first install you can run any version Home to Ultimate for 30 days, then you will be prompt for a activation key..(I think that is right, If not it is either the version you buy) for example if I got the Pro version, but did not put in the key, I would either get the Pro version for 30 days, or have a choice of what version I want for 30 days. (I can't remember)

I am not sure on the upgrade disk, but I still think it is the same has full version and the key also decides what version you will run..

Hope that Helps..