Reload Vista?

[videobread]

I am trying to fix a messed up Vista machine for a friend. I would like to wipe and start fresh. I have no Vista CD! I have never used Vista myself. What are my options on getting a CD. The machine was purchased at a retail store and has the Vista sticker, etc. It is a licensed machine. The owner just has no discs. What would you recommend?

[transporterfan]

How old is this machine and is the original software legit?
It may well have a 'factory image' already on the hardrive.
This is the complete installation/setup mounted in a separate partition by the computer manufacturer
If the Vista key on the back is for real then check the manufacturers website for instructions on how to reinstall Vista.
It's usually just a case of pressing F11 or some other F key during boot to access the options menu.

[videobread]

Thanks. I'll check that out. It is legit. The computer was purchased at Best Buy.

[Noahtuck]

You should be able to use ANY vista disc if you want to start fresh.

Then you wont have all the crapware/bloatware the manufacturers usually install on prebuilt systems,
that is included on restore disc's or restore image on the HDD, which you should be able to at least once, burn a set of restore disc's from.

Just install the same version the key is for, use the key to reg it and your good to go.

If you have any issues with needing drivers you can usually go to the manufacturers website and download them.

[videobread]

I like playing around with this stuff so I bought a: "Vista Installation disk. All versions 32 & 64 Bit"

on Ebay out of the UK for about $10 US delivered.

[jollyjohn]

Why would anyone want to install Vista..?

[glockjs]

don't know about where you live but there's a local computer shop here that will burn a MS OS install disc for $1 with proof....ie that sticker.

[jollyjohn]

don't know about where you live but there's a local computer shop here that will burn a MS OS install disc for $1 with proof....ie that sticker.

If it is Vista is still too expensive.

[Nelson37]

You can download a Vista image from many places, as long as you have that sticker and use the same version, you are good to go.

At least as good as you can be with Vista, friends don't let friends run Vista.

[jman98]

Why would anyone want to install Vista..?

People will be saying the exact same thing later this year with "Win 9" substituted for "Vista".

[Noahtuck]

Why would anyone want to install Vista..?

Good point....
LOL!!

@ Nelson37
Is there an echo in here here here here.......
LOL!!