Installing Windows 7 on Asus Z170-A

[Deleted member 2008471]

So I'm looking at getting the Z170-A for a new build. I'm sticking with Windows 7 for technical/ software compatibility (and somewhat personal preference) reasons.

From the reading I've been doing, it sounds like getting Win 7 installed via USB can be a real pistol, but I'll be doing it via internal optical drive.

Now, even though Win 7 doesn't support USB 3.0 "out of the box", the Z170-A has USB 2.0 ports on it. So, in theory my USB keyboard and mouse should work during installation as long as I plug them in the 2.0 ports. Then everything should work, right?

Has anyone successfully installed Win 7 on this board using an ODD?

 

[captaincharisma]

no, the issue is windows 7 does not have drivers for newer chipsets so it could even be USB 1 and it will still not work. just suck it up and install via DVD instead of making things harder on yourself

 

[Wolfshadw]

Since your motherboard does have Windows 7 drivers available for it, I'd be very surprised if your USB keyboard did not work during the installation process. Just make sure you actually connect it using the USB 2.0 ports on the motherboard.

-Wolf sends

 

[Deleted member 2008471]

no, the issue is windows 7 does not have drivers for newer chipsets so it could even be USB 1 and it will still not work. just suck it up and install via DVD instead of making things harder on yourself

I WILL be installing via DVD . But your point about Win 7 not having drivers for newer chipsets is my concern.

 

[Wolfshadw]

On the off chance it doesn't work, I would look into "slipstreaming" the latest drivers from your motherboard manufacturer's web site into your Windows 7 ISO.

-Wolf sends

 

[Deleted member 2008471]

Since your motherboard does have Windows 7 drivers available for it, I'd be very surprised if your USB keyboard did not work during the installation process. Just make sure you actually connect it using the USB 2.0 ports on the motherboard.

-Wolf sends

Good to hear! 😀 So in these instructions: http://dlcdnet.asus.com/pub/ASUS/mb/LGA1151/Z170-K/DE164_100_Series_Windows_7_Setup_Guide_print.pdf

Under Method 2 where it mentions making a modified Win 7 ISO, is this just for making USB 3.0 functional, or is this required to even be able to install? It's not really clear on that.

EDIT: Nevermind, just saw that latest reply.