Will reinstalling Windows 7 remove my programs ?

My Windows 7 has removed over a year ago because a nephew installed another OS.. I took my laptop to a professional to reinstall Windows.. Everything worked like before and now (11 months later) I get a message that my Windows is not Genuine.. How do I get it licensed ? My laptop came with Windows 7. I've purchased so many programs for work, that I'm afraid if I have someone reinstall it; it's going to remove all my programs and files... PLEASE HELP

You can actvate on line or by phone.
Activate Windows 7 by Phone
Activate Windows 7 Online

theog said:

You can actvate on line or by phone.
Activate Windows 7 by Phone
Activate Windows 7 Online

Thanks for replying, I tried to activate using the product key on my laptop, but it appears that technician installed a different version of Windows.. I just want everything legal & safe

linnemeyerhere said:

jessejj89,
Welcome to SF. You need to back everything up to another drive and then yes re-installing W7 will do a clean install and format your hard drive. Someone here may well have a way to image your current hard drive which could save some time. In my experience the long route is often better and shorter in the long haul. You say you have purchased all your software so you have all the original software disks. Back up all the data and files, including Outlook profiles and browser settings. Can't help you with your W7 OS question it may well be you have an illegal copy on your lappy. I would contact MS explain the situation and see what they can offer you, otherwise you need to contact the "Professional" and get the product key code, secondly a remote option is contact the laptop manufacturer but they may not help much? I't sounds like you are going to be purchasing a new licensed copy of W7. Good luck and really the major issue is the quality of the back up you do....then the rest is just time and money......just!

Thanks, but I have all my files backed up on DropBox.. I'm not worried on paying on another Windows license, it's the programs installed that's going to be a pain.. I've spent more money on the software than on the laptop. The "Professional" is has moved/closed his business.

linnemeyerhere said:

I was taking away from your first note that contacting the "Professional" wasn't a viable solution. I would call Microsoft and plead your case. It's been my experience that "they are there to help". I'm not sure what the solution will be,if it turns out your copy isn't valid but I would be ready to open your wallet as they should be able to validate and solve this problem without you having to remove and re-install.........I would hope!

ok, thanks I will do that :)

And if you paid for all those programs as you say, then you have the media to reinstall them from, so it shouldn't be an issue.

jessejj89 said:

theog said:

You can actvate on line or by phone.
Activate Windows 7 by Phone
Activate Windows 7 Online

Thanks for replying, I tried to activate using the product key on my laptop, but it appears that technician installed a different version of Windows.. I just want everything legal & safe

Perhaps you could mention which version your license key is for, and which version is installed.