Thread: Windows 7 Help

I bought a laptop a couple of years ago with Windows 7 loaded. The HDD died, so I've bought a new HDD but obviously this doesn't have Windows on it. I have no windows disc, so I think I'll have to download a copy. If I download a copy from a torrent site, but use the genuine key on the sticker on my laptop will Windows be genuine? Can I then use Windows update etc?

Edit: as Hearts said, you don't really need the CD key when you download it from (whatever), some releases has the "genuine loader" loaded into the installation so don't need to do anything, not even installing the said tool, just install and update just like a real copy.

As for how windows would react, you need to make sure it's clean installation, look for genuine iso's with no addons or anything.
It's basically an image of a genuine disk, (I think it's legal to do this for personal use) so it shouldn't cause any problems.

Yes it would work. You don't even need a cd key for windows 7 for updates. All you need is window loader and then window 7 becomes genuine and you can update.

Originally Posted by Hearts

Yes it would work. You don't even need a cd key for windows 7 for updates. All you need is window loader and then window 7 becomes genuine and you can update.

I know that you can trick Windows using a loader to make it think its a genuine copy, but my point is that I have a genuine license, so I was wondering how Windows would react since the disc would be a pirate copy but the license would be genuine.

make sure you download the untouch windows 7. make sure it the same edition. It will work

You will have to download the exact same version as it was before for the key to work (probably OEM).

Try to find the geniune window 7 home basic edition and then install it without putting key in it(if key is not for home basic) when install complete than go to window upgrade option which you can find in (My Computer --- properties {at left bottom corner}) now place the key and your window will get upgrade to you key edition.

I had done it so i know it and secondly window 7 home basic is the lowest version so no conflict occur with keys.

Hope it will help you.

Regards

Did you buy the OEM? If yes, mabey this is the answer: How to replace Microsoft software or hardware, order service packs, and replace product manuals

Replacement OEM or system builder software media

In most cases, you should contact the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or the system builder directly to replace Microsoft software that was distributed with your computer. However, an exception is made for operating system service pack media*, for which you can contact us directly.

• For computer manufacturer contact information, visit the following Microsoft Web site:Please Verify your Location
• If the product was distributed by an OEM or by a system builder, the product ID will contain the letters "OEM." Visit the following Microsoft Web site, select the appropriate product family, and then follow the steps to locate the product ID:How did you obtain your product?
• For OEM software, the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) lists the computer manufacturer's name under the software version name. For more information about the COA, visit the following Microsoft Web site:How to Tell - Home
  If you have system builder software, the COA lists "OEM Software" or "OEM Product" under the software version name.

*Note Service pack media includes only what is associated with the service pack itself.

If not, go with the answer above.

You can also go to your local pc hardware shop. Usually (at least in my country) they will install an official Windows 7 copy on your laptop as long as the Windows 7 sticker hasn't been tampered with for a small fee (the shop i usually go to can do it for $15).