Hi I have a HP Laptop that I need to replace the Hard Drive on. My question is when I replace the Hard Drive, Can I use the restore CD I create to start installing Windows 7 back onto the new Drive? Also would be possible to use a windows 7 restore CD from another Windows 7 home pc? in case I cannot create a windows restore cd on the laptop with the bad drive.
thanks
Last edited by ziek2012; 29 Mar 2012 at 08:00.
Welcome to Seven forums ziek2012.
The restore CD you make will not install Windows 7, it is to access repair options in a non-booting system. You will need an install DVD of the same version you now have to re-install and activate using the key on a tag somewhere on the laptop.
If the drive still functions, you could try cloning it to the new drive via USB or making an image to restore with.
If you didn't make your HP Recovery disk set before the HD failed they will not be able to be generated now. You can order them from HP Tech Support or do a Clean Reinstall using a Win7 retail DVD and the Product Key on the COA sticker.
Follow these steps to get a perfect Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7
Quote