What is the downside of pirating Windows 7?

I am on windows 8 right now and I hate it! If I pirate it, what are the downfalls of doing so? As well could I downgrade if I buy a key from here or wouldn't that work?

 

If you know what you're doing then there are no downsides aside from no technical support from Microsoft, it's illegal under US law, and it's a middle finger to the developers if you care in that way.

 

Hmm, what if I buy a key from someone on here, can I downgrade it then?

 

Yes provided the key is valid.

You would have to format your computer and then do a fresh install of your OS.

 

Sounds easy! Say if I get a key and it works, is there anyway it could become invalid in the future?

 

Its pretty unlikely that would happen. Just buy a key from someone with a legit msdn account and you should be good to go.

 

Would you recommend anyone?

 

There's a few people selling keys for them on here but I don't recommend any of them as they're mostly new members.

Amazon have it for a good price. May go even lower as Christmas nears - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Microsoft-W...UTF8&qid=1386205386&sr=8-1&keywords=windows+7

 

use amazon or ebay. like laptop already stated, no reputable sellers on sythe for windows keys atm unless you're willing to take the risk.

 

I can generate Windows 7 keys if I need them as I have full access to nearly everything except Microsoft Office as a university student. Student benefits ftw.

In all seriousness, Windows 8 is actually quite decent once you get used to it. I'm pretty sure there are programs you can get to replace the old start menu and so on if that's one of your issues, but in reality I think you're just being resistant to change.

I didn't like Windows 8 at first, but I quite enjoy it now.

 

I suggest just getting this instead if you don't like Windows 8 start screen, http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/

 

You may run into issues with drivers etc as many pirated versions are missing files, drivers and applications. To be honest you're better of pirating Stardock as it basically makes it Windows 7 LAF wise.

 

I had a fake windows xp whenever they first came out.

That computer worked fine, except after awhile whenever you would turn it on it would say "This windows operating system is not genuine"

Lol. Kind of funny.

Worked great though.

 

I've had no problems with my copy, for 2+ years now