Replacing failed hard drive, how to get OS up and running

[RickyRockstar]

Quick question, do I need to be connected to the internet in order for the code to be entered automatically? Because on my wireless key on the keyboard (the button to turn wireless on and off) it’s showing the red light, like it’s off? But if I press it it doesn’t turn white (on) 

[visruth]

Yes you need to connect to internet to get it activated through Microsoft servers.

LAN connection?

[RickyRockstar]

Sorry if this next question is stupid, I’ve never used anything other than wireless 

for LAN, is that just using an Ethernet cord with one end in the computer and the other in the internet router?

and then just doing that would give me internet? Or do I need to other steps?

and thanks again for replying 

[visruth]

No that would be enough.

[RickyRockstar]

I tired it, put the cord in my laptop, the port lit up, and I ran the installation again, but it still is asking me for the key 

[RickyRockstar]

I ended up using a generic code provided on one of the links you gave, and I was able to install windows and set it up

i downloaded two programs that are meant to find the window product keys for OEMs 

-windows OEM product tool

-RWEverything 

i ran both programs and they both gave me the same product key, I went to settings and to “activate windows”, I entered the key and it tells me it is wrong 

I’m not sure what else to do now 

[visruth]

What is the exact model name, product number of your laptop?

[RickyRockstar]

Product: e1p45av

Model: HP Pavillion 17z-e100

[visruth]

Hi there,


Product Number: e1p45av
Description: HP Pavilion 17z-e100 CTO Notebook PC (ENERGY STAR)

Your notebook is a Configure-To-Order machine, i.e., you chose the internal configuration and specs yourself while buying this notebook

So, while buying this notebook you ought to have recieved Windows 8/8.1 activation key separately as sticker/certificate?


Regards

Visruth