Downgrade from Windows 8 64-bit to Windows 8 32-bit

pmacnotpc

Honorable
Aug 19, 2013
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We bought an inexpensive HP laptop to run one specific application. The machine came with Windows 8 64-bit, but we've discovered this application will only run on the 32-bit version. We purchased a 32-bit version of Windows 8, but the machine is not allowing us to downgrade. How can this be accomplished?
 
Solution


Reinstall. There is no 'downgrade' button.


Reinstall. There is no 'downgrade' button.
 
Solution
Switching from 64-bit to 32-bit (or doing the reverse) requires a re-install of the OS. If you have the windows 8 install disk, it should allow you to re-install the OS as the 32-bit version using the same key.
 


Thank you for your time in response. It is not allowing a reinstall, when the 32-bit CD is inserted, it asks for a 64-bit version.

 


Nope, don't have disc, as machine came with Windows 8 (64-bit) factory loaded. Do have disc and key for 32-bit version.
 


"Do" or don't have the 32bit install disk?
 


DO have 32-bit install disc. Sorry, I have not used PCs since the '90's (am , well-versed in the 'other' computer environment), and MS makes this stuff WAY too labor-intensive. Am pretty frustrated with what should be a simple fix.

 


So...put the 32b install disk in, boot from that, install. Enter the 32b key when it asks.
 


Thank you!
 


Thank you.

 


Managed to set Boot Options and get into install. When installing, clicked Custom Install, then formatted the drive, receiving the following message: "Windows can't be installed. The selected disk is of the GPT partition style." Have no idea what the work around is at this point.