A media driver my computer needs is missing

[KPogoda]

Hello. Some time ago I made a mess in my computer and ended up using Linux. I can't install Windows, because I am getting information about "Media driver my computer needs is missing". Nothing helps. Can't install drivers, because they are *.exe - even extracting them on Linux/with Wine doesn't help. Can't use HP Cloud Recovery Tool, because it requires Windows and can be downloaded only through Microsoft Store (no device). Would prefer not to clean whole disk (I want to keep used Linux system), but eventually can do. BIOS updated too. Any ideas?

[M_Salman]

Hi @KPogoda,

To resolve the issue with reinstalling Windows on your OMEN 16.1 inch Gaming Laptop while preserving your existing Linux setup, follow these steps:

Steps to Resolve "Media Driver Missing" Issue:

1. Verify Windows Installation Media:

   • Recreate the Windows installation media using a reliable tool. On Linux, you can use WoeUSB or UNetbootin to create a bootable USB drive with a Windows ISO file.
   • Ensure that you are using a USB 2.0 port to avoid compatibility issues during installation. If possible, try a different USB drive.

2. Download Required Drivers:

   • If you have access to another device or a friend’s computer with Windows, download the necessary drivers from the HP Support website.
   • Extract the contents of the driver files onto your USB installation media. Look for .inf driver files specifically, which can be used during the Windows setup.

3. Install Windows Alongside Linux:

   • Resize Linux Partition: Use GParted on Linux to shrink your existing partitions and create free space for Windows.
   • Proceed with the Windows installation in this unallocated space, taking care not to overwrite your Linux partitions.

4. HP Cloud Recovery and Alternative Solutions:

   • To use the HP Cloud Recovery Tool, consider borrowing or using a friend's Windows PC to create recovery media.
   • Platforms like Ventoy allow you to keep multiple ISOs (e.g., Linux, Windows) on a single USB drive for separate installations.

5. Access Windows Tools via VMs:

   • Install Windows temporarily inside a Virtual Machine on your Linux system for tasks that require Windows-only applications (like the HP Recovery Tool).

Additional Tips:

• BIOS Update: Ensure that your BIOS is up to date, as older versions might have compatibility issues with certain storage drivers.
• Legacy vs UEFI Boot: Check your BIOS settings to confirm that UEFI mode is enabled if your Windows installation media requires it.
• Secure Boot: Disable Secure Boot temporarily as it can sometimes interfere with driver loading during installation.