I assume it came with Windows 7, if so you should request a Dell Windows Reinstallation DVD and register with My Dell Downloads, see Windows Reinstallation Guide:

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Yes, the machine came with windows 7 Home Premium 64bit. I acquired the ISO of this version from DigitalRiver.com.

I burned a DVD with ImgBurn and all looked very good.  Windows started and it was the correct version. The Device Manager said that there were no drivers for the Ethernet Controller, the Network Controller, PCI Simple Communications Controller and the SM Bus Controller.

I then installed all the drivers recommended on from Dell website for my computer.  They all said that they installed correctly, but the above mentioned devices still claim not to have drivers installed and I have no Internet connectivity.

Dell has been no help.

I do have a legal key; yes, I had already found that on the bottom of the machine.

I have no repair bill; I was anticipating the final directive -- buy a new copy Windows 7 and all the associated software that came with the computer that my granddaughter needs.

Speaking of activation keys, though, after I installed the new OS, I noticed that I have a new ID for the software.  When I try to activate it, which ID should I use?  It seems to me that the activation key would also be associated with the original ID of the computer, shown on the bottom as well.  During activation, it asks if I want to change the ID.

Tell me the model of your Dell and the hardware IDs of the unknown devices and I can help you with the drivers.

For activation follow the steps which mention phone activation on page 50 of Windows Reinstallation Guide.

To check the hardware press [Windows] and [ e ] and follow the instructions on page 53 of Windows Reinstallation Guide.

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