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    Formatting laptop, need info to get back OEM OS after insall

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by deltafox1337, May 27, 2011.

  1. deltafox1337

    deltafox1337 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Im formatting my lenovo y560 that came with x64 Windows 7 home premium. It came with a sticker under it with a windows OEM product key.
    Now I've downloaded a version on windows 7 home premium and was going to use that dvd to reinstall windows.
    Can I use the product key from the sticker while installing the new windows 7? or is there some other procedure I need to follow to get back my OEM OS?

    Thanks a lot.
     
    deltafox1337, May 27, 2011
    #1
  2. jxtx

    jxtx Notebook Consultant

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    You will be fine. If your OEM key does not work (I anticipate that it will not), you will need to call the telephone number provided to activate your copy of Windows. It takes a couple of minutes, but it works.

    If you are trying to retain special Lenovo OEM tweaks, you will need the disk that came with your PC or that you burned after purchase.
     
    jxtx, May 27, 2011
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  3. Gregory

    Gregory disassemble?

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    I often use non-oem installation media with an oem key. IIRC, it states the key is invalid only during installation. If I opt to finish without a key, then activate once complete, it goes through fine.

    If that doesn't match your situation, give Microsoft a call as jxtx said.
     
    Gregory, May 27, 2011
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  4. deltafox1337

    deltafox1337 Notebook Enthusiast

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    While looking around here, I came across this the ABR software, I used it to backup my certificates etc etc successfully. Upon re installation I would just have to enter the product key and restore from ABR right?

    Also I did wonder about all the nifty little features I have right now. I have used the 'One Key Recovery' program to create a recovery disk on 2 DVD's just incase. But I was still wondering how much would I loose? Im most concerned about all the fn keys. But I guess this question is better asked in the Y560 threat.

    Thanks for the info though!
     
    deltafox1337, May 28, 2011
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  5. KLF

    KLF NBR Super Modernator Super Moderator

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    But if it activates over the phone, it means the key works.

    Branded OEM Sticker keys aren't even meant to activate automatically over the internet, not for many years.



    ABR tool makes a copy of your manufacturer's Certificate and offline-activating key. It also makes the restore procedure by itself. When you install Windows, select the correct version and do not enter any key.

    ABR doesn't need internet connection or phone activation at all.
     
    KLF, May 28, 2011
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  6. deltafox1337

    deltafox1337 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Alright, thanks! Im just going to use the ABR tool then.
     
    deltafox1337, May 28, 2011
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  7. Gregory

    Gregory disassemble?

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    Gregory, May 28, 2011
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