Sony Support

Article ID : 00080827 / Last Modified : 08/11/2017Print

Windows 7 downgrade support

    Sony recommends to use the preinstalled Windows 8 Operating System on your VAIO.

    In case you nevertheless would want to downgrade to Windows 7 Operating System (64bit version), we have released the necessary drivers, utilities, and hardware settings info to install after downgrading.


    1. Important to read before considering a Windows 7 downgrade


    Before downgrading, it is important to keep the following in mind.

    • Downgrading to Windows 7 is only possible to the following VAIO models: SVE15, SVE17, SVS13, SVS15, SVF14, SVF15, SVP1321 and SVP1121 series.
    • You will need to obtain Windows 7 from anauthorized Microsoft retaileror directly from Microsoft. Sony will NOT provide Windows 7 directly and will NOT reimburse the cost of acquiring Windows 7.
    • Performing the downgrade requires a clean installation of the Windows 7 Operating System, which will remove all current contents such as files and programs from your harddrive. It is strongly recommended to backup your data to an external drive or media such as flash drive, Memory Stick® or DVD.
    • Performing the downgrade may result in the loss of some functionality. Please carefully read section 3 below.


    2. Where can I get Windows 7 drivers and utilities?


    Under the [Download] tab of the applicable model, select Windows 7 in the Preinstalled downloads section. If the Windows 7 option is not available, the model is not supported for downgrade.

    Sony advises to download all Windows 7 drivers and utilities applicable to your model to an external media or USB flash driver before performing a clean installation of Windows 7.

    3. Possible loss of functionality


    All series
    • The released Windows 7 drivers and utilities are for the 64bit version of Windows 7 Operating System, they may not function properly with 32bit versions.
    • You will not be able to control Wireless Devices with VAIO Smart Network after Windows downgrade.
    SVS13 series
    • The embedded WWAN module will not function after Windows 7 downgrade. If you need to use your WWAN module, we recommend not to perform the downgrade.
    • No wireless internet connection possible via WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network).
    • At the same time, the WWAN functionality will consume energy in the background. It can only be turned off by using the master switch.
    • No GPS.
    SVE15 and SVE17 series
    • The Hotkey to change LCD brightness will not function after Windows downgrade.
    SVS13, SVE15, SVE17 series
    • Unable to control the Wireless Device by VAIO Smart Network.
    • Boot Mode returns to UEFI from Legacy at Get Default Value.
    • It is necessary to install OS by changing the setting to Legacy Mode.
    SVF14, SVF15 series
    • Non-NFC-compliant
    • Non-ClearAudio+-compliant
    • Non-Touch Panel-compliant
    • Non-RapidWake-compliant
    • It is necessary to install OS by changing the setting to Legacy Mode.
    • Boot Mode returns to UEFI from Legacy at Get Default Value
    • Non-BD playback-support (not supplied PowerDVD)
    SVP1321, SVP1121 series
    • No BT3.0 High Speed (but BT2.0 supported)
    • No NFC support
    • No ClearAudio+ support
    • No CPPC support (Collaborative Processor Performance Control)
    • Unable to use edge swipe function
    • OS needs to be installed and run in Legacy Boot Mode (Assist -> F2 -> Boot -> Boot Mode)
    • Boot Mode returns to UEFI from Legacy when Get Default Value is executed in BIOS
    • No iSCT support (Intel Smart Connect)
    • No IEC support (Intel Experience Center)
    • No Wireless Display (Intel) support
    • No X-Reality support
    • No Color Mode Setting support
    • No Intel AT support
    • No RapidWake support
    • No S-Force Front Surround 3D support

    SVP1122, SVP1322 series

    • No BT 3.0 HS support
    • No NFC support
    • No ClearAudio+ support
    • Edge swipe function not working
    • No CPPC support
    • It is necessary to install OS by changing the setting to Legacy Mode
    • Boot Mode will be switched back to UEFI when Get Default Values in BIOS is selected
    • No iSCT support
    • No IEC support
    • No WiDi (Wireless Display) support
    • No X-Reality support
    • No Color Mode Setting support
    • No LBH support


    SVF1432, SVF1532 series

    • No BT 3.0 HS support
    • No NFC support
    • No ClearAudio+ support
    • Edge swipe function not working
    • It is necessary to install OS by changing the setting to Legacy Mode
    • Boot Mode will be switched back to UEFI when Get Default Values in BIOS is selected
    • No WiDi (Wireless Display) support
    • No Color Mode Setting support
    • No BD playback support (due to PowerDVD not supplied separately)
    • No RapidWake function 

    4. Important before installing


    It is strongly recommended that you create a Backup Recovery Discor Media of the preinstalled Operating Systems from VAIOCare application.


    NOTES

    • You will need to change Boot settings in BIOS to 'Legacy Mode' in order to clean install Windows 7 Operating System.
    • Boot mode settings will return to UEFI mode if 'Get Default Value' is selected in BIOS setting menu.

    5. General Disclaimer


    Sony shall not bear any liability for any loss of functionality or data resulting from a customer choosing to perform the downgrade.