Non HP-branded Windows on HP laptop?

[InlineFive]

Hi all,

I managed to pick up the HP laptop from BB and it has tons of junk installed on it. Plus I want Windows XP Pro for EFS. Can I buy another copy of Win XP Pro to use on it without problems? Or am I stuck with the HP-windows?

Por

 

[n7]

You can usually use another clean OS with no trouble.

Keep in mind that drivers will be needed for some things though, & you might have to either download them or grab them from the HP discs.

 

[InlineFive]

Originally posted by: n7
You can usually use another clean OS with no trouble.

Keep in mind that drivers will be needed for some things though, & you might have to either download them or grab them from the HP discs.

I can take care of that stuff. The big question was with the OS, especially since if I screwed I had to deal with HP's lovely "recovery" CD system. :|

 

[n7]

Well, if you haven't already, you should create the recovery CDs using their wizard in Programs > PC Help & Tools.
Then format & install your new OS.

I put Vista on my dv1440ca with no issues.

 

[InlineFive]

Originally posted by: n7
Well, if you haven't already, you should create the recovery CDs using their wizard in Programs > PC Help & Tools.
Then format & install your new OS.

I put Vista on my dv1440ca with no issues.

Okay, I'll make sure to do that in addition to cloning the disk. Thanks for the advice!

 

[Ayah]

Personally, I prefer to do without the manufacturer's "recover" programs. I find them annoying and a waste of disk space.

 

[InlineFive]

Originally posted by: Ayah
Personally, I prefer to do without the manufacturer's "recover" programs. I find them annoying and a waste of disk space.

I agree, however I am doing this just to be safe. Although I doubt that I will ever need it.

 

[pkme2]

I would make a backup of all files to a dvd of all drivers, exe's, inf's, sys's, dll's, and other files especially if you don't have a driver disk.
It's usually the one dll, exe or sys file that you'll need when you do an reinstall that is alway's missing.
If you have the HP driver disk or you can download from their URL, no problem.
I've found something always never goes right when re-installing.
I do Dells and never have any problems because I have the reinstall disks available, and the complete wipe and install goes smoothly..