Installation with oem key

[PrabhashBhajani]

I had windows 8.1( genuine) pre installed in my laptop but had to format it due to some issue.

The shop installed windows 7 ( pirated) and then changed it to windows 8.1 pro ( again pirated) [both times I wasn't involved]

If I try to reinstall Windows 8.1pro with OEM KEY on my laptop will it work?

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

What you propose won't work.

Below is the link to the product specs page for your model.

It comes with the W8.1 'standard' version, so you need to install the plain version of W8.1.

https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/c04396295

You can do so as follows...

Download the plain W8.1 64 bit ISO file from the link below.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows8ISO

I have zipped up and attached the Microsoft utility that you will need in order to transfer the ISO file to a DVD or USB flash drive so that it is bootable.

After W8.1 installs, you can install the drivers and available software from your notebook's support page.

https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/selfservice/HP-15-r000-Notebook-PC-series/6875200/model/7308898

If you are asked to enter a product key during the installation, then your notebook must have the W8.1 'standard' single language version.

Go back and download the W8.1 single language version, and repeat the steps to make the ISO file bootable.

This time you should not be asked to enter a product key.

[PrabhashBhajani]

should i install it in uefi environment or legacy bios

[Paul_Tikkanen]

That's up to you.

I install everything with legacy mode enabled and secure boot disabled.

It is usually easier that way, but some folks say that in UEFI mode, windows boots up faster.

[PrabhashBhajani]

when i first bought my laptop it was booted in uefi 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Try it in UEFI mode then, but if whoever worked on the PC changed the BIOS to legacy, then the drive will be formatted in MBR and you will need to change the settings to UEFI, and then you will need to clean the disk, or you will get the windows can't be installed to this disk.  The disk is of the MBR table or words to that effect.

[PrabhashBhajani]

ok!!

Thanks for helping me out

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.