Restore without Restore Discs?

[narangz]

Hey friends!
My question is how can I install Windows on my Compaq laptop without restore discs? I mean I do not want to delete partitions, data. The restore discs will delete them. I want to know can I install from Vista Disc & use my key? If yes from where can I obtain the Vista Installation Disc?

 

[s18000rpm]

if you install thru othr Vista disk, then you'll have to Install the drivers yourself (d/l frm hp website).

read the laptop's manual, there shud be a "Standard Recovery" which restores the OS from HDD (no formatting/deletion takes place)

check whether you have a separate partition, called Recovery Partition.

 

[narangz]

Yes I have recovery partition. But I want the solution for clean install.

 

[s18000rpm]

then, d/l all the drivers frm hp's wbsite.

but one more thing, your current Vista key is OEM key, so it might not work/get validated on the other version.

get it clarified & then only proceed.

 

[narangz]

I have the drivers. What I wanted to know is which Vista DVD will help me out of my problem & will accept OEM key.

I know a method by using Windows Vista Anytime Upgrade Disc, but those discs are not available in India! Help me guys!

 

[infra_red_dude]

It was not possible with XP. The OEM key wouldn't work with a retail copy. However from what I've heard, its possible in Vista. I do not use an OEM Vista. So wait for someone else to give in his/her views.

 

[RCuber]

@narangz: PM sent .. please check your inbox

 

[narangz]

^^ Thanks buddy! Check your inbox

 

[infra_red_dude]

I believe it can be done in Vista coz I remember iMav saying that he'd installed a retail copy of Vista on his laptop with the OEM key. Contact him for further details, narangz.

PS: Is your name/surname Narang or are you a fan of Don??

 

[narangz]

Surname is Narang. I haven't seen Don
Thank you for the suggestion!

@ Charan- Painful avatar. Ouch! It hurts!

 

[iMav]

i installed vista from the dvd i had previously and used my hp windows key it worked for me

 

[narangz]

^^ Okay. Thank You. But obtaining a dvd is a problem. Most of the downloads available are pre-activated/cracked/hacked.