Can I reinstall Windows 7 with any disc??

[StevieP]

I've recently got a laptop off the Dell outlet store and of course you dont get the Windows 7 DVD in case of a reinstall - now I've actually got a retail copy of Windows 7 for my desktop and an OEM copy that I got with a previous machine - can I use either of these for a reinstall and just use the CD key on the bottom of the new laptop? (I want to start fresh without all the Dell bloatware on it!)

Thanks guys....

 

[StevieP]

Thanks for the replies guys!

Robinbredin, I know I can do the factory reset/backup but I really don't want all the default Dell rubbish on there! As long as the retail or OEM Windows 7 disc works with the key on the underside of the new laptop I'll be fine!

Don't fancy having to ring MS though!

 

[StevieP]

Well I managed a reinstall OK - the install didnt even ask me for the activation key on the underside of the laptop though!?!?

When I go to "system" it does say my version of Windows is activated though - has it somehow retained the serial key even though I deleted all the partitions and formatted the drive?? (although the key listed has "OEM" in the middle of it - does this mean its specific to the OEM DVD I used to install?)

Cheers...