Operating System

[Orchid21809]

Original Hard drive failed before I could back up.  Installed new hard drive and need to reinstall my OS; however,  the product key on sticker is illegible. How can I obtain product key to reinstall original OS that came with laptop. Please help. 

[Riddle_Decipher]

@Orchid21809 If you've installed a new hard drive on the computer, you'll need to use the HP Recovery media to reinstall the same OS back on the new hard drive, how exactly are you attempting to install the OS? Did you get a retail copy of windows? If yes, the retail disc would have the product key on it, if no, and it is the HP Recovery media you've got, it does not require a product key as it's in-built to the BIOS, refer to this article for more details: Click here

Here's the link to an expert's post with details on how to install the OS using a retail OS: Click here

If you need help in obtaining the recovery media: Click here

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