First; the Dell warranty (and most/all other major computer manufacturers warranty) covers hardware failure only. So if one of the hardware components fails, Dell would be able to send someone to replace the failed hardware (after troubleshooting with you on the phone). Software (reinstall/fix/install) support is usually not part of the standard warranty.

If you have the Dell DVD for Windows, you don't need the actual COA sticker for the install. The reason that text is on the disk is because you're supposed to have the matching license to use the actual disk and Microsoft considers the COA sticker the (proof of owning a) license.

The COA sticker for a laptop was once commonly placed on the bottom shell of the case.  These days it is often placed in the battery compartment.  Did you look there?

chrismjung,

Thank you for using the Dell Community Forum.

You would need to COA on win7 upgrade disk and not on full versions. Which do you have?

Thanks for your reply Jack,

My new computer is currently at the computer hospital, so I can't check it. I would like to presume that the Tech will find it if it's in the battery  compartment, but will check with him when he calls...just to make sure.

Chris J

Hi Jesse,

Thanks for your response. I presume that it is the full version inasmuch as it came installed in the new Inspiron computer from the Dell factory.

Chris

Thanks for your response Dev. I appreciated your clarification re the warranty. Of course, we all want the things we purchase to operate properly for more than a month. I just wonder how long it will be before it freezes up again.

Your response to the COA sticker just makes me more upset. They should include some information to the purchaser so we don't have to spend valuable time on line to India!! So, I guess the consensus here is that I don't need a COA sticker as long as I have the orginal Dell reinstall disk with Windows 7 on it....obviously, my Tech doesn't know that.....

Chris