Downloading a legit version of Windows 7

[naps]

Hello,
I just bought a laptop with Windows 7 on it and it has the windows 7 activation key on the bottom. I am looking to put in a solid state drive and need a copy of Windows 7 Home Premium so that I can re-install it. Is there a way to get a copy of Windows 7 Home Premium without having to buy it, since I already own it?

 

[Ijack]

Doesn't your laptop have the facility to make an install disk?

 

[naps]

Hmm now i feel like an idiot lol. Thanks for the help.

 

[naps]

Best answer selected by naps.

 

[hang-the-9]

+1 ^, you should be able to create a restore disk from your system, even if it only has the built-in restore partition on the hard drive. In theory, could be some vendors don't provide that. There is usually a utility that comes with the pre-loaded vendor software that will allow you to make the disks.

I don't think a new hard drive will be enough to force Windows to re-register it as a new system with MS, but you may need to call them after setup to activate. But I'm thinking you will be fine just using the code you have using the automated registration.