re-install Windows OS partition? reinstall Windows OS CD/DVD obsolete?

I have not shopped for or purchased a new/used PC in several years. I am starting to look for a used notebook PC and have noticed that many used laptop PCs do not include a re-install CD or DVD for the OS and drivers. Several advertisement descriptions refer to a re-install partition with a software key included. I apologize for my ignorance--can one or several users explain the concept of a re-install partition for the OS?

Thanks much for your attention and consideration.

PG

 

A recovery partition is generally provided by the Mfr. to restore the computer to its factory state if desired. Additionally, sometimes it has the ability to copy itself onto a media device as a bootable backup for reinstalling; it can also be backed up, and included in a system image backup.
With W7, 8 the ability to acquire the legitimate authentic ISO file online for creating USB installer media has a lot of appeal for its flexibility (you need the license key to activate it still). Also, when a new service pack is integrated it cuts down the number of Windows updates needed after a reinstall. Basically Microsoft did something right and made this process more convenient for a lot of people.

 

Yes there have a hidden directory for recovery purpose in case of problems but also you can in Windows create a system image and repair disk as well but then again you can also order recovery cd/dvd from the manufacture for yourself as well. So there are a few options you can use to fix the problem then problem comes which are you going to use hidden directory or create recovery disk or buy recovery cd/dvd from manufacture for recovery purpose.

 

When i buy a new notebook i remove the original hdd and make and create an image using Acronis True Image, and save it as an file on my storage hdd 4tb, i have been doing this for years now, i rarely use the original hdd, so i clone it to an ssd or hybrid hdd.

John.

 

What I did is get a Samsung 840 EVO 250GB and clone it with Samsung Data Migration Software, includes the recovery partition, Then install the SSD and save the Hard Drive for a rainy day, any thing I want to back up goes to the USB 2.0 drive,,,soon Seagate Backup plus 1TB USB 3.0(inbound). As to the restore to manufacturers settings, I'm getting a Lexar USB flash Drive #1 in speed for factory reset.... IF my SSD gets nailed by a virus,,I simply reclone it with factory hdd.

As to installing thru optical disk drive,,I'm waiting for M$ to come out with an offical DVD iso for OEM, Volume Licensing and Retail.. Could be a wait, lol

Cheers
3Fees