Do I need the original install disc for reinstallation after formatting/wiping disc

Ninah · May 25, 2015

I have a laptop (HP Folio 13) that came with Windows 7 pre-installed. I want to reformat/wipe the hard drive on it.

After I format/wipe a hard drive with Windows 7 installed on it, do I need the original install disc that came with the computer to reinstall Windows 7? I've lost the disc that came with the computer, but I have a Windows 7 OEM disc that's already been used on a custom build of mine. Can I use that?

Thanks.

Knucklehead545 · May 25, 2015

Yes you need the disc if anything you can turn it into an iso and move it to a flash drive and it should work

USAFRet · May 25, 2015

Ninah :

The install media is of little consequence.
The license key is the thing that matters. You cannot use the same license key on 2 PC's at the same time.

DookieDraws · May 25, 2015

Yes, you can use the OEM disk as long as it's the exact same version you currently have installed on the laptop. Meaning; if your laptop is running Windows 7 Home Premium, the OEM disk must also be Home Premium. I've done this several times, all you're doing is installing the OS and once installed you will provide YOUR legitimate license key for the laptop.

BEFORE reinstalling, be sure to find your license key (for the laptop) and write it down! You can read how to do this at this link:
http://www.howtogeek.com/75496/how-to-reinstall-windows-without-having-to-reactivate/

Search

Do I need the original install disc for reinstallation after formatting/wiping disc

Ninah

Honorable

DookieDraws

Knucklehead545

Reputable

USAFRet

Titan

DookieDraws

Distinguished

TRENDING THREADS

Latest posts

Moderators online

Share this page