Solved Is there a way to do clean Win7 install if I don't have a disk?

[raylo]

I have a HP HDX 16 laptop that has a current valid licensed copy of Win7 Pro but I don't have an install disk. I do have the OEM Win Vista recovery disk that it came with but this laptop was long ago upgraded to Win7 HP online (upgrade was included in original purchase since I bought it during the transition) and subsequently upgraded again to Win7 Pro via the MS Windows anytime upgrade online, hence I have no Win 7 disk for this machine.

I want to put in a new SSD to replace the working hard drive but would like to do a clean OS install instead of ghosting the current install. Is there a way to do this, and if so, how, without having to buy a whole other copy?

 

[SIW2]

If it the same machine, you can use your license key with fresh installation media

Windows 7 Direct Download Links

 

[theog]

Open the email from MS Store, you will find a link to download a ISO, & a link to order Backup DVD.

 

[raylo]

Excellent, folks. I got the bootable ISO burned and found my file activation key. Now alls I need is the new SSD.

 

[gregrocker]

Follow these steps to get a perfect Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7. Everything needed is in the blue link.

 

[theog]

Excellent, folks. I got the bootable ISO burned and found my file activation key. Now alls I need is the new SSD.

You are welcome.

 

[raylo]

I kept digging and found the OEM Windows 7 Home Premium upgrade disk that came with the laptop. It would be a long update nightmare to start from that! Also good I printed and saved my Win7 Pro online upgrade activation receipt/key. Luck to find it, though with my bad filing habits.

 

[gregrocker]

I'd backup the Product Key several places including on the machine covered with protective tape, and in a file you keep in your Documents which should always be backed up.

Use the latest official installer from Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7 to avoid hours of extra updating without SP1.

Are you ready to do the reinstall following those steps? Any questions?

 

[raylo]

Well, this thing came with Vista (and the Win7 upgrade disk) so no way I'd even use that recovery option. Not ready to do it yet but thanks for all the tips. I know it is possible now and I have the resources when the time comes.