bought new laptop, no os install disc?

[fbrdphreak]

Originally posted by: Buck_Naked
I asked the same question here: Text and was given a link to a site that gives instructions on making a bootable restore disc using the files in the i/386 folder on my IBM. You might want to give that a try. I was able to do a fresh install and not worry about a hidden partion after following the directions.

I did have to call MS to activate, rather than doing it over the internet, but I was happy with the final outcome.

Dave

I remember you

Yes you can use this link to make your own OEM XP install CD. I learned another trick I forgot to mention. If you go this route, it will prompt you for a CD key and you will have to call MS to activate it. To bypass this LEGALLY, read here:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/deploy/oempreac.mspx

 

[Nerva]

apparently i can get a recovery cd that will do a fresh install of windows. i won't hold my breath.

 

[ElFenix]

just uninstall everything you don't want. it'll work just the same. XP is pretty robust about that.

 

[BuckNaked]

Originally posted by: fbrdphreak

Originally posted by: Buck_Naked
I asked the same question here: Text and was given a link to a site that gives instructions on making a bootable restore disc using the files in the i/386 folder on my IBM. You might want to give that a try. I was able to do a fresh install and not worry about a hidden partion after following the directions.

I did have to call MS to activate, rather than doing it over the internet, but I was happy with the final outcome.

Dave

I remember you

Yes you can use this link to make your own OEM XP install CD. I learned another trick I forgot to mention. If you go this route, it will prompt you for a CD key and you will have to call MS to activate it. To bypass this LEGALLY, read here:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/deploy/oempreac.mspx

I can't tell you how much I appreciated the link... I was irritated to no end trying to get my laptop restored, and thinking I was going to have to pay more money just for the restore discs to do it...

Thanks!