HP notebook reinstall Vista NO CD

**Winos2Mac** · December 19th, 2008, 01:47 AM

Hi! Can anyone tell me what the best way is to reinstall Vista on my HP laptop because the laptop did not come with the install CD.

The laptop became infected with a virus and I decided to reinstall the OS. Somehow I clicked on a restore function and the computer began to format it self. I wasn't aware that Vista did it this way and I turned off the computer as it was formatting because I could not hit cancel. Now when I boot the computer it doesnt recognize the hard drive. It seems like its erased the MBR.

Is there a fast way to recover from this or will I have to obtain a Vista install CD and reinstall from scratch? If so, where can I get a Vista CD since the laptop did not come with one.

thanks for your help!

**Whir** · December 19th, 2008, 01:56 AM

If I recall correctly, you can get an actual install disc from HP.

Otherwise, you'll be stuck purchasing a new copy, as the OEM version that comes with laptops is not key-compatible with the retail versions (making borrowing a Vista DVD useless).

**Winos2Mac** · December 19th, 2008, 05:49 PM

So I can just contact HP and they send me the disc? will I be charged?

**RicheemxX** · December 19th, 2008, 08:07 PM

I'm not sure what the fee is but I think it was like $10 or $15 dollars, anyways HP can provide you with that info HP Notebook PCs*-* Obtaining a Recovery CD or DVD set for Windows Vista*

posted the wrong link the first time

**Winos2Mac** · January 4th, 2009, 08:19 PM

OK i purchased the Cd but the recovery does not work. It tells me that there has been an unrecoverable error (it's HP's proprietary software that displays that message) is there a way I can do a fresh install of Vista with this CD?

whats next?

Thanks for your help and HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!