HP laptops and installation disks

I just got my Envy 15, and opened up the package, the Windows recovery DVD or any other software installation disk was no where to be found. Nor was I prompted at startup to make a fresh recovery DVD from a blank. I havne't bought HP for a number of years, mostly stuff from Lenovo, Dell and smaller OEMs, each of them contained the disks or the instruction to make them.

How does the process with HP work? Is ordering new disks from HP the only way that I can wipe the HDD clean and start from scratch?

 

You should be able to burn the recovery discs by typing "recovery" into the start menu search box and clicking the program that shows up (recovery disc creation or something like that), you will probably need 3 dvd-r s or 2 dvd-dl s

On the other hand, if you want to do a clean install, you need to obtain Windows 7 (i assume) discs, which you can download from the link in my sig

 

Great advice, this seems to be a great way to get a clean install.

I assume the key is on the back of the laptop or under the battery somewhere? I'll look for that when I get home.

 

Clean install can only be done with a Retail Windows Media. HP Recovery image will be having the added softwares which you may not require.

 

Not sure if that key will work. I used keymaster (?) to find the key from my OS.

 

The key in the bottom sticker is 100% working when used with any unmodified Retail/OEM disc. It's your computer's unique license code, there's no reason why it wouldn't work.

That key found using a keyfinder is generic license key given to Hewlett-Packard computers, one key used for all computers with same version of Windows. It will work only in a combination of HP hardware and HP install CD. That key does not work with untouched OEM or Retail disc, as they lack the HP specific data.

And some on-topic too:

If you decide to do clean install, which is a good thing, create the recovery discs first even if you aren't planning to use them yourself. They will come in handy when you are finally deciding to sell the laptop, you can just secure wipe the hard drive and then do a full factory reinstall from those discs. New owner will be pleased too

 

I'm pretty sure you can use orev's guide (stickied in this forum) to back up your factory OEM key and restore it after a clean install

 

Yes, it's totally possible. So many unnecessary steps when user can simply enter the key from the bottom during the install It's only 25 letters afterall.

However that method can also be used when the bottom key is used to activate another computer, or the laptop came without an OS in the first place... Since it's generic activation, not "personal" like the COA sticker license.

Normal endusers cannot be expected to know how to do it (anyone who actually finds his/hers way to this site can be classified as an advanced user already...). Normal users will just stick the DVD in and click next-next-next and wonder 2 hours later where all the holiday photos went.

 

I hope you are right. I plan to do a clean install and do want to use the key which comes with my laptop.