Windows Vista HDD Fail

[cryptonate]

I recently had my hard drive fail with Windows Vista on it. Can I buy the upgrade version of Windows 7 and install it on a new hard drive? The computer is only 2 years old and is an HP Pavillion Model #a6230n. I don't think the computer came with a Windows Vista Disk....It does have the registration sticker on the case. Thanks for any help.

 

[pparks1]

Yes, you can install the upgrade version of WIndows 7 on a computer that does NOT contain an operating system.

Here is a decent windows site that explains the procedure clearly.
http://www.winsupersite.com/win7/clean_install_upgrade_media.asp

 

[cryptonate]

Thanks, I really just want to make sure that works. I have installed Windows Vista upgrade to a new hard drive, but somebody said Microsoft fixed this loop-hole? I don't want to buy it and it not work...

 

[gregrocker]

Even if the registry workaround didn't work (which it does), you could run a Win7 http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/3413-repair-install.html?ltr=R as soon as you get it installed and it will then accept the key.

If you have access to a Vista installer, you can install Vista first if you want.