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So, I have a few questions about a pretty straightforward scenario: I purchased a new laptop - namely, Dell's XPS 15 9550 - which came with Windows 10 Home (x64), and also, as usual, with a lot of other applications and bloatware which I neither like nor need, so I want to format the hard drive and do a clean Windows install.

Problem 1: Since I do not have any Windows 10 installation media, how can I reinstall Windows?
Problem 2: Since I do not have the Windows serial number that the laptop came with, how do I activate them again?
Problem 3: Since this laptop is the property of the company that I am currently working for, and not mine, I am concerned about whether this will void the laptop's warranty. Will it still be under warranty, or will I have to do a complete factory reset before I hand it in?

I thank you all very much in advance for your time.

pazof
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Since I do not have any Windows 10 installation media, how can I reinstall Windows?

You can download a copy officially from Microsoft, using the Media Creation Tool: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

Since I do not have the Windows serial number that the laptop came with, how do I activate them again?

On modern systems, the Windows key is embedded into the UEFI system. Windows will automatically detect this key and should activate without any issues.

I am concerned about whether this will void the laptop's warranty

Not entirely sure about that one, but I'm very sceptical thinking that reinstalling the OS nullifies your warranty. Wasn't a problem in my support cases (I usually wiped the disk completely before sending the device in). Duplicate question: Will formatting HD and installing my own OS invalidate the warranty on laptops?

Gene
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