Foolishly tried linux, how to retrieve my Windows Activation key

[rickineveret]

Ok, I used to run linux and thought I would change my laptop over to linux as Windows is just a royal pita. However I tried 3 different distros and my HP PC17CP3000 is actually worse with Linux. 

How do I get my windows activation key to reinstall windows. 

[NonSequitur777 · Accepted solution]

@rickineveret,

Yea, you're not alone -many users try Linux but later return to Windows due to hardware compatibility issues. Fortunately, your Windows activation key is embedded in your laptop's UEFI/BIOS, so you do not need to manually retrieve it in most cases.

Here’s how to reinstall Windows:

Option 1: Use the HP Cloud Recovery Tool:

This will restore your system to its original factory state (Windows + drivers):

1. On another working Windows PC, go to: https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/ish_4511095-4511141-16?utm_source=chatgpt.com.

2. Download and install the HP Cloud Recovery Tool.

3. Run the tool and enter your product ID: 9Q8Z1AV if prompted.

4. Follow the instructions to create a bootable USB recovery drive.

5. Plug it into your HP 17-cp3000, boot from USB, and follow the on-screen instructions.

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Option 2: Clean Install Windows Using Microsoft Media Creation Tool:

If you just want a clean Windows install:

1. On another PC, for Windows 10 go to: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10 or https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows11 for Windows 11.

2. Click Download tool now to create installation media on a USB drive (8GB or more).

3. Boot your HP laptop from this USB.

4. During installation:

   • When asked for a product key, click “I don’t have a product key”.

   • Windows will automatically activate after the installation because the key is stored in your laptop’s firmware.

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After Installation:

• Install HP drivers from here: https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/hp-17-laptop-pc-17-cp3000/2101549716.

• Run Windows Update to ensure all devices are recognized.

Let me know if you'd like help with the recovery media or driver installation!

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

[rickineveret]

Perfect, 100% recovered.

[NonSequitur777]

@rickineveret,

Outstanding -glad things are resolved!

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777

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