How to fresh install windows 7 without the key?
 

Got a Dell machine I'm sending back to them, but want to wipe all my details off it. It seems as Dell don't send you the product key.

I also can't actually tell where I start with the fresh install either.

Power the laptop up and as soon as it starts to boot hold down I think its F11 and it will do a system reboot, there is a partitioned part your hard drive where dell store the recovery process, saves sending out a disc I suppose, it will automatically install it with the product key, like I say I think its f11 but not sure its one of them, google it :thumb:

Just delete the data and overwrite using CCleaner, less hassle.

http://www.filehippo.com/download_ccleaner

I have a legit windows 7 but for some reason mine would not activate, I tried the online help with no luck as they said I had to phone Microsoft to sort the problem so I just downloaded and installed a windows loader. Job done.

If you're sending it back, just wipe it - no need to re-install Windows is there ?

If you're not really sending it back :), then Steve has given you the phrase to Google - just make sure your antivirus is up to date before downloading.

Ring Microsoft and some woman in India will give you the code with out even asking why, I did it a few weeks ago

Dell usually stick a licence code sticker on the underside of laptops.

You all missed the obvious one here.

You dont have to install the code, just click "later" and carry on the install.
I do this every month with my benchmarking OS as I do that on a seperate disk to my main OS as its guaranteed to be corrupted every damn week. LOL

Remove the battery, license key is usually under there.