Windows re-install question

I am hoping to re-install Windows Vista (or XP) on a somewhat old (about three old) Compaq Presario laptop. I can’t find the original operating system installation disc, however. (I sent the laptop in for a system-board repair in 07 and seem to have misplaced my original discs.)

So what can I do now? Do I have to buy another copy of Vista? I have a few other laptops in my house—one with Vista, another with XP. Could I install one of my XP or Vista discs from those laptops? I know this is probably a basic question, but I don’t know how that works—if those discs only work on one type of laptop, for instance.

I’m assuming I can just download the Presario’s drivers on HPs website.

 

I wouldn't buy another copy of Vista, since you would be paying for a disc AND a License. Your laptop already has a Vista OEM license.

You also can't legally install WinXP on your Presario Laptop by simply using the disc from another laptop, you would need to purchase an XP license.

What you need to do is obtain a generic Windows Vista Retail dvd. It does not matter what edition (Home Premium, Ultimate, etc) since they are all the same and it could even be a "Windows Anytime Upgrade" disc. Backup your Vista OEM key using ABR (Activation Backup and Restore) first, then reinstall Vista using a disc. After you are done reinstalling, restore the activation using ABR.

The tricky thing for you is to obtain a Vista disc. Ask a friend to borrow theirs or order a "Windows Anytime Upgrade" disc from Ebay. All you need is a Vista disc, no license.

ABR (Activation Backup and Restore) | directedge.us

 

Basicly what no1uknow said. But you should have a license key under your laptop, if it still is readable, find a Vista dvd, backup your data and reinstall!

 

Thanks no1uknow and tuηay.

There is indeed a product key code on the bottom of the laptop. Do I simply type that code at the activation prompt when installing Vista with a borrowed disc?

I will follow no1uknow instructions. I first have to get a hold of Vista.

 

Yes.
You have to install the same edition of Vista that originally came with your laptop so you can use the OEM key.
On the other hand, you can also download Vista online legally with splistreamed SP2 and just install the appropriate edition for your laptop using the OEM key.

There were links on this forum that led to legal Vista download.
Use the search option to find them.

 

Again what Deks said, I would also suggest you to download the splistreamed SP2 so you don't need to run the cleanups. A fully updated Vista runs smooth as it can be. Also don't forget to choose between 32 and 64 bit. Basic rule, if you have 3+ RAM go for 64-bit. A 32-bit OS won't take advantage of the whole 4GB RAM, if will only show full size but use about 3.4GB.

 

I don't think there are any legal download links for Vista SP2, i tried looking myself but all i could find were torrent links. If there are any, let me know.

BTW you can use the product key on the bottom of the laptop, but that requires a phone activation afterwards. It is much easier to use ABR.