If I replace the hard drive, do I lose my Windows license?

Question

I dropped my laptop and destroyed my hard drive. I have ordered a new hard drive to replace it and so obviously need to reinstall the operating system. The recovery information was in the hard drive and I didn't make any recovery discs.

Does this mean I will have to purchase Windows 7 again if I wish to get it all up and running again?

score 5 · Answer 1 · edited May 16 '13 at 13:52

5

You will need to reinstall Windows using the same licence key you used for the first install. Usually you will have a licence key sticker that will give you the key. You may have to order recovery discs from your computer manufacturer or borrow a Windows install disk from a friend or a techie.

edited May 16 '13 at 13:52

slhck

235,242

answered May 16 '13 at 13:50

Ali

1,219

If I replace the hard drive, do I lose my Windows license?

1 Answers1