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    Thinkpad L540--Windows 7 or 8.1?

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by mdea, Sep 6, 2014.

  1. mdea

    mdea Newbie

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    I am thinking of buying a Lenovo L540, but can't decide on the OS--Windows 7 Pro installed as a downgrade from Windows 8 or pre-installed Windows 8.1. I am comfortable with 7, and wary of 8, even though I understand that 8.1 is a definite improvement and can be configured to some degree to be more like Windows 7.
    Has anyone gone through the experience of buying a Lenovo PC with Windows 7 Pro pre-installed and then later installing 8.1? Is it smooth sailing or ........?
    I'd appreciate any advice.
     
  2. ajkula66

    ajkula66 Courage and Consequence

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    If you get the machine with W7 installed as a downgrade from W8, you can always nuke the existing install -after creating recovery disks - and test out W8.

    Should you end up not liking the experience, you can revert to W7.

    Whether W8.x is a "definite improvement" for your particular needs only you can decide, and the path that I've specified would give you the option of testing it out while retaining the ability to go back to W7.

    Good luck.
     
  3. Shemmy

    Shemmy Notebook Evangelist

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    As much as I love 8.1 and prefer it over 7, I should caution you that there seem to be issues with the RealTek WLAN adapters not staying connected in 8.1. So just be aware.
     
  4. mdea

    mdea Newbie

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    Thank you, ajkula66, for your advice. The approach makes sense.
     
  5. mdea

    mdea Newbie

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    I appreciate your warning, Shemmy. The config that I am considered uses an Intel Single Band wireless 7260BN adapter, so hopefully I won't have a problem.