I have a laptop that came with Windows XP. I upgraded to Windows 7 when it came out, and am planning on selling the laptop. Unfortunately, I think the Windows 7 upgrade disc got accidentally thrown out when I was throwing some old software out.
I was planning on doing "Darik's Book and Nuke" to wipe everything, but then I would have no way to get Windows 7 back on it legally. Is there any way I can restore Windows 7 to a clean install, and then "wipe unused space" with a disk utility to protect my information?
I do have the Windows XP factory restore disc that came with the laptop, but it will obviously sell easier and probably for more with Windows 7 on it.
Any suggestions? Thank you.
Best Answer
You could contact Microsoft and order replacement Windows 7 media:
Also, as long as you have the valid key/license, you are free to use copies of disks you obtained from a 'less than reputable' source. It's not the best idea (and usually doesn't sell well), and MS might not support you (or your customer) if you call them with a problem installing from it.