Installation Media after hard drive replacement.

[TimeWeaver]

I have acquired an HP Envy that was originally purchased with Windows 8 and later upgraded to windows 10.  I need to replace the hard drive and would like to know how to get windows installed and registered on the new hard drive without having to re-purchase it. I am not concerned about the personal data on the computer.

[CherylG · Accepted solution]

When the free upgrade was done the laptop hardware id and a digital license was stored on Microsoft servers. You can reinstall Windows any time as long as the motherboard is intact on the laptop.

Microsoft provides the free Media Creation Tool to download files and create a Windows 10 usb flash drive. At least 8gb flash drive required:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

Select Download tool now and Save or  Run if you have the flash drive.
If you agree to the license terms, select Accept.
On the What do you want to do? page, select Create installation media for another PC, and then select Next.
Select the language, edition, and architecture (64-bit) for Windows 10.
The Guide here shows the steps.Pay attention to Step 5 if you will be using another pc. If you are using the laptop just leave it checked and it will make correct choices for you:
https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/2376-create-bootable-usb-flash-drive-install-windows-10-a.html
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When the flash drive is prepared insert it in a usb port. Power on the laptop and immediately start tapping Esc key. From the menu tap F9 key and use the arrow keys to move to and select usb. Tap Enter key.
When installing if it asks at any point for a license/product key just choose "I don't have a key". It will continue and should activate once you are online.

This will not include the original software from HP but most of it can be installed from your Support page.