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Windows 7 Pro 32 bit Clean Install w/ partition
Hello there. This will be my first time installing an OS onto a computer, and I am a bit nervous.
To start off, I have an HP computer built by Compaq with Windows Vista Home Premium 32 bit. It's great! My favorite part about it, is that instead of coming with an installation disc, the local hard drive has a partitioned system restore that will restore it to it's factory condition. Basically it re-installs Windows Vista to it and it acts like a new computer.
I am a college student and being enrolled in a few classes has got me a deal to upgrade to Windows 7, and I want to do a clean install. (I hear that this is better for the machine than upgrading) I have a few questions now.
If I install Windows 7 and don't touch my partition for restoring my system, can that be used again? I would assume not since it's for Windows Vista and not Windows 7. I don't expect this to be an option, but that would be great. Haha
Is there a way to format the partition and reinstall some sort of system restore to it for Windows 7? I am afraid to insrall Windows 7 and lose this ability to restore my computer. (Not that I'm getting into trouble, .)
Now the Disc I have says it's "Windows 7 Prefessional 32-bit x86 upgrade: pre-existing OS license required. Systems Student Media"
If all else fails and I can't do anything with my hardrive, can I just keep this disk and wipe my computer clean and use it to install windows 7 again? I'm also worried that I can only use the product key once, and after that, I wouldn't be able to restore it if I need to.
What can I do to keep my partition to restore or to make my own partition for restoring my computer? Or will I just have to use the disc?
Thank you for your time.