Wanna sell my old Acer Aspire laptop but I lost its Vista CD

[Commie Pinko Dirtbag]

And I installed Linux over it when I bought it (second-hand) a year and a half ago. It was Vista Home Basic. The serial key is on the Microsoft sticker under it.

I'd like to obtain media from which I could install using the proper key so it goes squeaky clean and with a legal Windows on it. I don't have to buy a Vista license, I already have it.

Suggestions?

[RoyGBiv]

1. Yes ...

I think this may be the only thing Microsoft did right with Vista. The finally implemented a method of ordering replacement discs. You just have to have a valid key and whatever shipping/handling is ... like $15 I think.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsvista/1033/ordermedia/default.mspx

The funny/sad part is this can still be done with more convenience by not following the legal method.

[Duer 157099]

2. I don't think it's difficult to find the installation software

I bet if you Google it, you'll find it - possibly on a site like the msdn one.

It's having a valid key that's the issue, and since you have it, you just need to make sure that whatever installation version you get is the exact same kind that goes with your key.

At least that's what I learned about XP - have never looked into this issue for Vista.

Of course, if you want the actual official disk, then the above reply applies.

[RoyGBiv]

3. Yeah ...

You can find installation media via torrents and Usenet fairly easily.

It's finding the *right* one that's the problem as a lot of the installation discs are made specifically for, say, a Dell machine and won't install unless they detect Dell's "key."

And, as implied, it's actually easier to find a pirated version than a legal one.

[whistler162]

4. Check to see if it has a restore

partition. The Travelmate I just rebuilt does.