Hi mshomo,  You can format the HDD and reinstall the operating of your preference. The drivers for Windows 7 are available for this system in the support website. You can use the Operating system CD you purchased two years ago. However the system warranty will not support any issue with regard to the Windows 7 Operating system. Please find the link below to download the drivers for Windows 7 Operating system: [URL] Click on the link below for the order in which the drivers has to be installed. [URL]
I'm confused about removing Windows 8 and installing Windows 7. I ordered an XPS 8500 with everything I wanted, but it didn't offer Windows 7. I thought I could just buy it and remove Windows 8 and install a retail version of Windows 7. I had bought the Windows 7 a couple of years ago, but my video card wouldn't pass the test, so I never used it. Now it sounds like I can't do that if I didn't order Windows 8 Pro (I didn't) on the XPS. Am I not permitted to format the drive and put the Windows version on that I prefer?
Can I install Windows 7?