Solved Question about Windows 7, finding it online.

[Anesthetic]

Recently, I read a few threads on here that showed a user how to find a copy of Windows online through Heidoc. The user would then enter the serial number of his version of windows so that it would activate.

The quoted threads are as follows:

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/219487-clean-reinstall-factory-oem-windows-7-a.html#post1839164

http://www.sevenforums.com/installation-setup/151566-reinstalling-windows-7-a.html#post1300819

http://www.sevenforums.com/installation-setup/206722-factory-restore-dell-inspiron-n5050.html

Windows 7 Direct Download Links

Is this really a legal and for sure way to re-install windows without fear of viruses? Additionally, what if the version of Windows you have is not originally a fresh install but a version that came with the pc you purchased from, let's say, Newegg or Best Buy? Would the key still work?

Thanks!

 

[Brink]

Hello Anesthetic,

Those ISO files are official Microsoft ones. They are completely legal to use since you are entering the product key that have you already purchased or came with a store bought OEM PC to activate it with.

That's correct, you will also be able to use your OEM product key to activate the Windows 7 installed from the ISO.

Hope this helps,
Shawn

 

[gregrocker]

If you'll actually read Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7 it will explain it for you.

The preinstalled Win7 on a store bought PC is heavily compromised by bloatware and duplicate factory utilities that interfere with and have better versions built into Win7. An owner of such an install may never get to experience Win7's native perfect performance.

That's why MS requires the OEM to affix a COA sticker with the Product Key that can activate a Clean Reinstall in their activation servers - so users can reinstall and use the OS version they own as they please, not bundled with a bunch of crapware and duplicate utilities that interfere with and have better versions built into Win7.

So yes it is legal for you to reinstall as you please an OS you paid for and own in the first place. It's not just legal but recommended in order to have a first rate install. Our tutorials will show you how to get the best possible install. Just be sure you download and install the same version as on the COA sticker.

 

[Anesthetic]

Thanks guys. Yes, Greg. I did read them; however, there's no harm in double checking. Getting a response from Brink was even better. I really appreciate the assistance, guys!

 

[Brink]

Glad we could help.