I am running Windows 7 Home Premium x64. It came with my laptop already loaded up. I would like to format the computer but I dont have a Product key or a cd for windows 7, and was hoping I could do this without having to do anything illegal. In advance, thanks for the help!
Last edited by MichaelLow; 10 Aug 2015 at 23:04.
Remove the battery and look for a CoA sticker.
I found a product key, am I able to reuse it? Also, If I do format my hard drive, am I going to need to download wireless drivers before hand to use wifi?
If the product key that you found is attached to the laptop, then yes, it can be used - that is why it is there.
If the product key that you found was extracted from the current installation, then that won't help you during a normal format/install.
If the product key that you found is from some other source, then please explain.
Most Dell products have an option to restore the computer to "factory settings":
How to restore your Windows 7 computer to factory settings | Dell US
Doing that will make use of the product key currently being used.
You might need to update drivers after doing that.
If you do not wish to restore to factory settings and you manage to locate a valid Windows 7 home premium 64bit DVD, then you can use the info on the attached CoA. If you do that, then yes, you should gather your drivers from Dell before formatting/installing. Be sure to back up any current data before formatting.
You may request DELL OEM Reinstall DVD. With it you can do a clean install and it will auto-activate (OEM activation). How To Request Backup CDs for Your Dell Computer | Dell US
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