Replace system builder Windows 7 disc?

SDague · 06 Jun 2015

I put together a custom computer for the first time awhile ago and ended up accidentally breaking my Win 7 DVD. At the time I bought a system builders version of Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit because it was cheaper than the full retail. Unfortunately, it seems that Microsoft won't allow me to download the ISO from their website because of that very fact. I guess it has to be retail?

So my question is where the heck do I get a replacement disc? Is there somewhere I can go on Microsoft's website to have them send me a replacement? Is that even something that they would do? I'm not really sure what else I could do except call them (Oh boy I hate over the phone tech support) or just buy a retail copy this time. Thanks for your time and I hope you can help! :)

AddRAM · 06 Jun 2015

Microsoft will not send you a replacement disc, and no, without a retail key, you can`t download the iso file. And we don`t even know if that works, no one has confirmed it yet.

GokAy · 06 Jun 2015

Did you try from this one? Microsoft Software Recovery

AddRAM · 06 Jun 2015

As I already stated, you need a retail key to download an iso from that site.

And he said in his post he has already tried that.

GokAy · 06 Jun 2015

Sorry, I wasn't aware you needed a retail version, not a mention of it anywhere on the page.

Also, it is not obvious if it was that page or some other OP tried.

AddRAM · 06 Jun 2015

There is only 1 Microsoft Recovery Software website.

I said you need a retail key in reply #2

SDague · 06 Jun 2015

That is very unfortunate. I had hoped there was a way to get a replacement DVD since I have a working product key. It kind of seems odd that they would force people to buy another copy of Windows or possibly push them towards torrenting. Would make more sense to offer you a replacement disc for a small fee instead. Oh well, thank you for the information. :)

gregrocker · 06 Jun 2015

OEM System Builder is a retail SKU. So the key should work with Microsoft Software Recovery.

Reports are that that site only works in Internet Explorer, if at all.

Other ways to obtain safe reinstallation media are discussed in Step 1 of Clean Reinstall Windows 7

If you already own a license then there is no reason to buy another as it's just a waste of money as long as you're reinstalling on the same hardware.

ThrashZone · 06 Jun 2015

Hi,
Yep all I can say is Amazon has them on sell for 69.us for 64 bit h-premium and 76.00 for 7 pro 64 bit.

AddRAM · 06 Jun 2015

Greg, I`ve tried my OEM System builder key on that site 2 months ago or so when it was up and running, it does not work. Anything OEM tells you to contact your PC manufacturer for Recovery media.

Only a true Retail Key will work and I have yet to see anyone here confirm that.

I`m not even gonna attempt using my retail key there, I have my media :)

In my opinion it`s a catch 22, why would someone have a Retail key but they don`t have their install dvd, Windows 7 Retail is like Gold, and should be treated as such.