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HDD Failure: Replacing HDD and Need help Installing Windows 7/Office
Background: I noticed my computer hanging, running slowly, etc. Checked the S.M.A.R.T. status, it displays warning and is showing signs of impending failure. My Spring College semester begins in 4 days. I already bought a new Western Digital 750GB HDD.
Problem: I need help installing and activating Windows 7 Pro x64 and Office 2010 ProPlus x32. They are both considered "Retail" versions and have MAK keys - they are Academic Versions - University Bookstore/DreamSpark Premium.I have reinstalled Windows and Office multiple times on the same laptop (usually every 4-6 months because as a MIS major we have to install a lot of resource intensive software just for one semester and I prefer to start fresh).
What is the best way to approach this? The laptop came with Windows Home Premium and the COA sticker is attached. I don't think my Recovery DVD's are any good as the process hung every time I tried creating them a few years ago.
Request: Can you give me some advice on Just installing Windows 7 Pro x64 and Office 2010 ProPlus on a brand new HDD without having to deal with a bunch of activation issues? I am changing from a Toshiba OEM to a WD HDD. Am I going to have to Download, install and activate Windows Home Premium 64-bit first again?
Important Note: I may have to Install Office 365 ProPlus on top of Office 2010 Professional Plus (MSFT offers it free of charge to all current university students in the USA now). It is available as C2R installation though :/. I have installed it before, it is just a pain and a bit buggy.
Your help is appreciated. I just have to get the laptop running by 1/5/14 before school begins.
Thanks!!!