Hi Jsmileb,
Factory-installed Windows 8 computers differ from previous versions of Windows. Previously, the Product Key for Windows was attached as a label on the computer so that, in the event that the computer required re-installation, the key could be referenced for activation.
For Windows 8, the Product Key is "injected" onto the computer motherboard at the factory, and the installation and activation processes refer to the BIOS of the computer to verify authenticity and activate Windows. No Windows Product Key is otherwise provided or needed by the customer.
It is generally recommended before you begin downgrading your computer to Windows 7 Professional, that you create your recovery media for Windows 8 Pro in the event that you want to return to the factory-installed operating system. Were you able to create the recovery media?
If not, try to take the system into the Troubleshooting mode. Two Boot Failures will trigger the machine to automatically go into Troubleshooting mode.
Press Right shift + F8 after you start the machine to get into Troubleshooting mode and recovery option. Here, you can try to recover the imaged partition, if available. Check the link below for steps.
http://dell.to/10z6VkW
The link below has steps to do the factory image restore for Windows 8. While restoring your PC all your data and and settings will be lost. Please perform data backup before starting restore, if necessary.
http://dell.to/17qnyno
Additionally, the following link has useful information on Windows 8 Support.
http://dell.to/18JRf1x
Please try the steps mentioned in the links and let me know if the recovery partition is not available so that I may assist you further.
[FONT=Arial]Thanks and regards,
Babita G
#iworkforDell [/FONT]
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