Licence for Windows
Licence for Windows
Hi everyone, I recently purchased a Lenovo Thinkbook 14s (20RM0005US) in Canada with Windows 10 Pro. As someone who prefers Linux, I didn’t agree with the Windows EULA and the device shut down. I’m wondering if there are any options in Canada to remove the bundled OS or get a refund on the license fee. Has anyone had experience with this? Thanks ahead!
It's simple to replace the operating system by installing a fresh one, especially if you're looking for a refund. I don't think you can obtain one otherwise. The best way to save money would have been to purchase it from Lenovo along with a Linux distribution.
Consider upgrading to Windows 7 or replacing the drive with Linux. These systems come bundled together. You can reclaim the operating system only if you're the authorized seller and have a contract with your OEM or ISV.
You can't run Windows 7 on today's hardware, and it's not recommended since it's no longer supported. The best choice is to switch to Linux instead. If Lenovo provides this option, that would be ideal. Otherwise, consider System76, which specializes in Linux devices.
You misunderstood the situation. It's not about updating Windows 7—it's about installing it properly. You can use a fully assembled virtual machine with a Windows 7 setup file, and after installing the necessary drivers, it should function correctly. The situation isn't over just because Microsoft stopped supporting it publicly. ESU updates are available now, and we have the expertise to apply them. We're confident enthusiasts can adapt and enjoy Windows in modern systems. I'd love to see a live demo on a current PC, but I'm limited by time and resources. If you know how to boot Windows 7 from a USB drive, I'll visit a nearby store to test it myself.
It seems you're clarifying a misunderstanding about licensing and software usage. You mentioned using Debian instead of Windows XP and are asking about refunding a Windows license for a system running Windows 7. Let me know if you'd like guidance on that!
Ignore them. You can also use the Report-button to alert moderators when you think people aren't respecting your question and disrupt the conversation. I've excluded the derail part (and optionally all of it).
Regarding your question, the laptop comes with the OS pre-installed. The cost of the OS is minimal, around $50. In theory, you could sell that license if it hasn't been activated. If you can access the BIOS without using the OS, you can install any OS you prefer. However, when I spoke with Lenovo, I needed to use Windows 10 features to reach the BIOS and preferred a clean ISO over the built-in restore option. Another choice is contacting Lenovo support or the store where you bought it. Unless it's specifically for IT equipment, they won't offer a full refund. From a consumer protection perspective, your only options seem to be changing the OS or requesting a full refund. It’s similar to buying a car and later wanting different tires—you’re not obligated to return them. Consider reaching out to the consumer protection agency, the store, and Lenovo support for more details if needed.
Sadly, no. At least not directly. The licence itself may just be worth a few quids anyway. If there's no msdm-information for a win-licence inside the bios you may transfer it to a different computer, or give it to a friend/someone else as long as you're honest about it since it is in disregard of the Eula.
It's already included in the cost. No further action is possible.