Reinstalling windows without discs?

alexalexalex

Ok basically i want to get a new pc because my current one is running like a three legged donkey (not great) but while i save up for a new one i want to get the most out of my current one and then hopefully pass it on to my mum or someone as it still functions and does everything she would need it to.

So what i wanted to do was reinstall (clean install, reformat, i'm not sure about the terminology) windows so that it runs close to the way it did when it was new. My problem is that i have an OEM version of windows and no installation discs. I did get a system restore type of disc when i bought it (from Time uk i think but not 100% sure) but that disc doesnt work, it says I need a newer version but as im not completely sure where i bought it from and i think Time may have stopped trading since then this is a bit difficult.

Is there a way of doing this without said discs? (system restore just doesn't cut it anymore)
Will i be able to make a new set of discs myself? I have the product key and the sticker on the pc to say its a genuine and all that
I've heard people talking about ghost images and partitions on this topic before, anything i can use to help with this?
How about Linux? would i be able to install and use that as a new OS? if so would it have to same effect as reinstalling windows ie return the computer to nearly new performance and if so would i have any problems getting things like my Sky broadband router working with it?

Thanks in advance and sorry about the long post but its hard to explain when your not really sure what your asking

espresso

What anti-virus, anti-spyware/malware protection and firewall do you have installed?

Donnie

I would back up your drivers and important info and reinstall. I can send you a disc. Check your PMs.

[Deleted User]

Donnie wrote: »

I would back up your drivers and important info and reinstall. I can send you a disc. Check your PMs.

I hope it's a legitimate version you're sending..

espresso

anewhope wrote: »

I hope it's a legitimate version you're sending..

Any CD can be used with their own key but without proper protection it will soon be a three legged donkey again!

Donnie

anewhope wrote: »

I hope it's a legitimate version you're sending..

What is it to do with you.... or would it make you happy for the OP to post their address on the open forum?

[Deleted User]

Donnie wrote: »

What is it to do with you.... or would it make you happy for the OP to post their address on the open forum?

Wouldn't want this site to be coming under fire for promoting the distribution of pirated software would we now?

alexalexalex

loaner wrote: »

You could just uninstall all the extra bits that have been installed over the years, (especially things that run at startup), do a thorough malware scan etc. You could maybe borrow or buy a cheap OEM disk, and use your serial number to reinstall.

I have uninstalled nearly everything I don't use and same for startup, only a few things running there too. Use ccleaner now and a few different tools over the years to try and clear it up but they dont seem to make much difference. I've defragged and restored lots as well and thats not helped either.

I use AVG 8 right now and windows firewall.
I've asked around for copies of windows discs i could borrow but nobody seems to have the proper discs, just the restore ones from the manufacturers that sold the pcs to them

Donnie

anewhope wrote: »

Wouldn't want this site to be coming under fire for promoting the distribution of pirated software would we now?

Even if this were the case, how would anyone know about it if it weren't for pointless posts by nosy members? :rolleyes:

As pointed out, the OP has a COA.
So please go away, your 'sense of humour' is not appreciated here.

Of course, if you have something helpful to contribute.....

alexalexalex

espresso wrote: »

Any CD can be used with their own key but without proper protection it will soon be a three legged donkey again!

sorry im not sure what you mean here, are you talking about protection as in anti virus etc or the actual windows OS?

[Deleted User]

Does it matter whether anyone would know or not, illegal is illegal no matter how you sugar coat it.

Anyway, I agree with espresso, a decent anti virus is a must to prevent repeat!