where can I get/buy recovery media for a 5 year old laptop

[bobdahdaleh]

The hard drive stopped working on this laptop. I install a new one but cannot find a link to order or download Windows 8.1 recovery media under "Software and drivers".

I appreciate the help

Bob 

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi, Bob:

With business notebooks you have to call HP by telephone to order recovery media.

In Canada and the USA you can call this number... 1-800-334-5144 

You can also reinstall W8.1 for free by making your own W8.1 installation media from the link below...

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

I have zipped up and attached below the Microsoft utility you can use to transfer the ISO file to a DVD or USB flash drive, so that it is bootable.

Then you can install the drivers and available software from the notebook's support page.

https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/selfservice/hp-250-g2-notebook-pc/6431932

[bobdahdaleh]

Thank you for your reply.

In order for me to use the download from Microsoft, I would need a license key for win8 with is non existent on this HP laptop. I will try my luck with ordering the media from HP since they have special licensing with Microsoft.

Bob 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome, Bob.

You don't need any key to download the file.  Just download it.

The  Windows license key is in the BIOS, so just follow the guidance I posted and you can install W8.1 for free.

It shouldn't even ask you for a product key as long as you install the correct version of W8.1 the key is good for.

[bobdahdaleh]

I was able to download the windows 8.1 ISO from Microsoft, make a DVD and install it on the laptop. It automatically recognize the key in the BIOS as "Pro".

Thanks for your help Paul.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Anytime, Bob.

Glad to have been of assistance.