New Hard Drive what do I do next?

esuhl

According to the article below, you might be able to get a new product key if you ask your laptop manufacturer for a new one or failing that, ask Microsoft. Maybe it's a long shot, but apparently you should be able to get one for $10. Gotta be worth a go...

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/osproductkeys/ht/windows-product-key-replacement.htm

I'd also follow googler's suggestion and replace the drive yourself if you feel like giving it a go. Depending on the laptop it might be incredibly easy... or quite easy but a bit fiddly. Some laptop manufacturers have complete manuals on their website that will show you exactly which screws and panels to remove and where the drive is located, so at least you'll know what to expect (although it's easy enough if not).

googler

Added to my post above, people are always asking here - "How do I keep my hard drive secure when I dispose of it or hand it in to a repairer?"

to which I say -

"Don't hand your hard drive to a repairer" (unless you REALLY know and trust them)


and the other lesson for laptop owners here is -

"Take a note of the product key BEFORE the label wears down"

birkee

Or, Take a hammer to it!