can i install software (even reinstall windows) using this device?
1696245
yes---it works the same as a built in disk drive---I have installed old software that I had on to a new computer
1696246
i used it to install windows 7 on a fairly new laptop the other day so i know it is possible, however that computer needs to be able to boot from a usb device. If you can boot from a flash drive, then it can boot from this too granted your media was created right and is bootable. just go into your bios and change the boot device order or if there's a selective boot option go with that rather than change the bios.. Just remember to change the boot order back to the original setting once you're done. Usually i make a bootable flash drive these days, however this installation i used the dvd that came from a store. Hope you get what you want done. i used it to install windows 7 on a fairly new laptop the other day so i know it is possible, however that computer needs to be able to boot from a usb device. If you can boot from a flash drive, then it can boot from this too granted your media was created right and is bootable. just go into your bios and change the boot device order or if there's a selective boot option go with that rather than change the bios.. Just remember to change the boot order back to the original setting once you're done. Usually i make a bootable flash drive these days, however this installation i used the dvd... » Read More i used it to install windows 7 on a fairly new laptop the other day so i know it is possible, however that computer needs to be able to boot from a usb device. If you can boot from a flash drive, then it can boot from this too granted your media was created right and is bootable. just go into your bios and change the boot device order or if there's a selective boot option go with that rather than change the bios.. Just remember to change the boot order back to the original setting once you're done. Usually i make a bootable flash drive these days, however this installation i used the dvd that came from a store. Hope you get what you want done. « Show Less
2128298
You can install Windows (or Linux) using a USB thumb drive. Search the Microsoft web for Windows USB/DVD Download Tool and you will find the correct tool and instructions on its use. Here is the URL: http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msusa/html/pbPage.Help_Win7_usbdvd_dwnTool
636932
You could by a license for Windows 7, reformat the primary drive, and then install the OS. Windows 8 is just another Vista in my opinion.
2073882
no. big problems with this.http://www.pchelpforum.com/xf/threads/problems-replacing-windows-8-with-windows-7.145253/
449994
Of course. It comes with Windows 8 so any windows software may be installed.
840320
You can always install Windows 8, just like Unbuntu or whatever, no worries
1666527
Yes. The device comes with a program that needs to be installed on your computer.
1471766
No is the simple answer. The software is all windows based. And is the weakest link of the device.
1630607
No. I wouldn't count on any of the drivers working. You most likely will have to download a generic driver or let windows update find it for you
117577
Yes, if you have a spare slot. Be sure to use the driver disk that comes with it, not windows update.
1773598
NO PROBLEM! Though on a side note, I have had better luck using the windows update drivers for these things than the provided software. fwiw
1838972
no. as far as i am aware the software/ drivers necessary to use this device need to be installed on an operating system compatible with the requirements.
1459201
No, their should be a generic driver built in to the Operating system of whatever you are installing it in. Then a proper driver can be downloaded and installed after the fact.
1094987
Yes, but you'll need a computer to go along with it. I'm guessing you're probably a more casual user, so I'd recommend having a technically inclined friend or computer repair specialist help with the install.
2216696
The machine comes preloaded with Windows 7 Professional 64bit already. You're good to go. The supplied recovery media is for Windows 8, however. Re-installing Windows 7 will be difficult. I'd recommend preforming a complete system backup to an external harddrive as soon as you get the machine.
1661406
Yes..without a problem. But..(I don't remember if it had an operating system on it when it arrived) unless it has the operating system on it..you'll have to use a "full blown" version of Windows 7..not the upgrade.
120533
I am not sure. I have the discs if you are interested. I now have Windows8 and cant use them. Let me know.