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#71
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You could try this.
Download the Windows 7 ISO (you'll need your key) and install clean without the Dell bloat.
Some people report that they had trouble downloading the ISO using an OEM key ... the page infers that you need a Retail key though
Worth a shot - you'll know right away if it doesn't take your key
Microsoft Software Recovery
If your key is accepted and you are able to download the ISO, then see:
Clean Install Windows 7
I'm not optimistic that you can use your COA (certificate of authenticity) with a retail Windows 7 installer. I'd bet a modest sum ($0.05) that Dell uses an SLP (system locked pre-installation key).
It is probably possible to modify a retail Win 7 installation into an SLP one. I vaguely recall doing something like that with XP to repair an old Dell PC whose HD had failed.
Maybe the easiest way to get one would be from Dell. I don't know whether they'd oblige, whether they would charge for it, or whether it would come with a ton of paid crapware.
As for the 10 upgrade, it's not supposed to download without your permission. You can remove the notification from the taskbar by uninstalling a particular Windows update. I don't recall the KB (knowledgebase) number.
The OS only becomes aware of the license when you enter it at installation time. A valid COA = a valid install.
The ISO is unaware of the license, you cannot use the OEM key, but the key on the COA sticker works fine and is authentic. Win7 will install using the key on the sticker.
The question is Does MS allow people to download the ISO with the COA on an OEM machine?. I think MS does NOT allow the download, but things change.
Uninstalling the two Win7 KB for GWX will remove the icon from the taskbar, but they won't be on a Clean install system until WU offers them. You'll have to hide the updates to stop WU from offering them again.
KB3035583
KB2952664
If the GWX icon keeps getting installed, don't reserve your copy of Win10 and that should stop Win10 being offered in WU.
I just want to be sure that you tried all of the steps in this tutorial (some posts in the tut might also help) :
Windows 10 - Go Back to Previous Windows
Read through that tut and also review the Related tuts at the bottom of post# 1- there might be an answer in those.
How to Reinstall Windows 10 with this media
How to Upgrade to Windows 10
How to Upgrade Windows 10 Home to Windows 10 Pro
How to Delete Windows.old Folder in Windows 10
How to Refresh Windows 10
How to Reset Windows 10
How to Create or Download a Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 ISO
How to Start or Stop Receiving Insider Builds in Windows 10