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December 5th, 2014 02:00
Getting original Windows 8 iso without serial key
Hello everyone!
I've got a problem with my Dell. I tried to install an Ubuntu Linux on my laptop and the installer accidentally erased my preinstalled Windows 8 with all my data and so on. Is there any way to download an original Windows 8 iso to burn it on a CD or a bootable USB and install Windows 8? I tried by downloading the Microsoft's tool but I need my serial key, which is hidden somewhere in my UEFI/BIOS. Maybe Dell can send me some iso or link to download it? Someone had a similar problem?
Thank you, Piotr.
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Philip_Yip
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December 5th, 2014 04:00
Microsoft have updated the downloader so that it requires no product key and gives a Windows 8.1 with update 1 that accepts Windows 8.0 and 8.1 product keys for installation both retail and OEM. It now allows selection of architecture, language and version. See here for details:
http://dellwindowsreinstallationguide.com/download-microsoft-windows-and-office/download-microsoft-windows/
The downloader requires a Windows OS to launch, its a .exe so its best to use a Windows based computer. If not you need to download Windows 7 and install without a product key in VirtualBox/VMWare Player then use that to download Windows 8.1. Its easier to just use another computer.
Also see A Clean Install of Windows:
http://dellwindowsreinstallationguide.com/a-clean-install-of-windows/
piotr.partyka13
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December 8th, 2014 12:00
Thank you very much! I'd found this solution just few minutes before you posted it. But still thanks. It worked almost perfect because now I have problem with drivers e.g. none of the WiFi drivers from the Dell's site work. My wireless card remains undetected but I hope I'll handle with that unless you have some ideas.
Best regards,
Piotr
Philip_Yip
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December 8th, 2014 18:00
Please provide the system model and hardware IDs see here:
http://dellwindowsreinstallationguide.com/downloading-drivers-checking-hardware-ids-and-downloading-and-installing-dell-system-drivers-in-the-correct-order/checking-hardware-ids-in-the-device-manager/