[EXTREMEoverclocker]

Ok, my question is simple ... I just bought a used laptop and the guy said it did not come with an install disk. The OS is already installed, but it looks like he just deleted all his stuff from it. I would like to install a fresh copy to the system to help me sleep better at night knowing there is not something malicious on the laptop.

So I found Win7 here:
http://www.mydigitallife.info/2010/04/2 ... oad-links/

My question is, can I download it from there and then use the CD key on the bottom of my laptop to install it and get it registered and all that?

[yeshuas]

technically, I don't know if it is legal, or if it will work when you try to activate Windows, you may end up with a fubar.

What I would try first is running a good antivirus software like Avast or Alwil free versions, and then Lavasofts Ad-Aware all programs have free versions. You could also go to Nod32 website and run the online version of its scanning for virus'

[shreader]

Or maybe you could restore the PC to factory defaults if that is available.
Some laptops have a (boot) button on them to do that.

[EXTREMEoverclocker]

I cant imagine how it would be illegal to install windows 7 if you have a legit key stuck to the bottom of your laptop though.

It did at one time have the backup thing to restore to defaults but he switched hard drives and no longer has that.

[shreader]

Try the AV as Daniel suggested.
&/or
Go to the Laptop manufacturer website & see if they have a restore/new install disk/Dl available..probably will have to pay some cash to them for it.
Your friend didn't create a restore disk set, before changing out the Hdd?

[EXTREMEoverclocker]

I will do that ... nope he sure didnt

[kanaloa]

The key gives you the ability to install Windows 7 legit on the PC, but that download site I wouldn't trust. Lord knows what might be bundled in the .iso file.

Do you have any access to a Windows 7 installation disk from any friends? You already have a key, so it sounds like you just need a disk. If you could get one from the manufacturer like shreader suggested, that'd also be great.

I'd just be really careful downloading Windows 7 from anywhere online... I just think that may cause more trouble than good, one way or another.

[yeshuas]

The key gives you the ability to install Windows 7 legit on the PC, but that download site I wouldn't trust. Lord knows what might be bundled in the .iso file.

Do you have any access to a Windows 7 installation disk from any friends? You already have a key, so it sounds like you just need a disk. If you could get one from the manufacturer like shreader suggested, that'd also be great.

I'd just be really careful downloading Windows 7 from anywhere online... I just think that may cause more trouble than good, one way or another.

I agree John that was part of the fubar I was talking about, no telling what you may get from that site

And they may not be anything more than beta builds

[EXTREMEoverclocker]

Ok, I will keep looking around and call the company.

I just cant believe how hard it is to get a legit download of win7 haha

[shreader]

What version of 7 are you looking for & x86 or x64?

Who manufactured the Lappy?
Model?