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Creating a Windows 7 Professional Operating System Disk

2.8K views 6 replies 4 participants last post by  BIGBEARJEDI  
#1 ·
I recently purchased a used Dell Optiplex 760, operating on Windows 7 Professional. It is a core 2 duo 3 gigaherts 2 gigs of ram and Intel onboard graphics. Could I create a complete operating system disk and drivers on 1 dvd copying the Windows folder in programs files. Looking forward to your input. Thank you. KCBC
 
#2 · (Edited)
Hi,
Yes, it's possible but it's not for wimps! It took me 2 years to create Windows7 32bit and 64bit boot discs of my own. Microsoft has scrubbed most of the legit images from the web, so 97% of them are bogus or don't work. I've got some that I used; can't guarantee they still work. Here's some to try:
Windows 7 Direct Download Links, Official Disk Images from Digital River#
Official Windows 7 SP1 ISO Image Downloads | Windows 7 Forums
Download Official Windows 7 SP1 ISO ( 32bit / 64bit ) from Microsoft

I've had the best luck with these 3; but due to Microsoft's policies don't wait too long to try them as they may be gone by next week or next month!:nono:

Once you download a Windows7 Pro ISO file, I recommend you use the free IMGburn program in my signature link below. If you attempt to create the boot disc on flash drive, use WiNToBootIC. This takes more work however.

You'll then have to go to support.dell.com and download the Windows7 Pro drivers for the Optiplex760. Be sure to install the BIOS flash upgrade first, then the Chipset drivers, then audio, then video, then utilities, then apps, and everything else. Reinstallation of the drivers in this order is MANDATORY! Failure to do so will result in a failed Windows installation almost everytime. :nonono:

Your alternative is to call Dell on the phone and order the Optiplex 760 RECOVERY DISCS; you can purchase directly from Dell for $29-$99. They take about 2-3 weeks to get shipped to you.

p.s. Don't forget that once you reinstall Windows7 Pro on your Optiplex760 you'll need to use the Microsoft COA License Produce Key which should be a sticker somewhere on the outside case of the computer.[UNLESS YOU USE THE DELL SUPPLIED FACTORY RECOVERY DISCS I MENTION ABOVE]. If that's gone or removed or unreadable, you'll have to purchase a new one on ebay for $120 or so; or call Microsoft and have them create a Custom key for you to match the existing license on your hardware. This can be tricky; they don't usually do it for end-users.

<<<BIGBEARJEDI>>>:thumb:
 
#3 ·
Could I create a complete operating system disk and drivers on 1 dvd copying the Windows folder in programs files
No, you cannot copy the installed Operating System and Program Files from your computer and create a Bootable install disc of Windows.
As BBJ suggested, you can download legal ISO images of Windows 7, you still would need a product key that has not been Activated yet.
As has been said, Your best bet is to contact Dell and ask for a Recovery CD/DVD. It will have Windows 7 and all of the drivers and be pre-activated for your particular computer and will not be able to be used on any other computer.
 
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#4 ·
it would be best to create an image copy of the drive since that os can never be used on another computer, even if that computer is destroyed.
 
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#5 ·
Thank you everyone for your input, after checking the back of computer I found the product key and also discovered that the original OS was Vista, so previous owner upgraded to Windows 7. Would the Vista product key be any good to me if I downloaded an ISO of Windows 7. Thank you KCBC.
 
#6 ·
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#7 ·
As Spunk indicated, you can CALL Dell for the FACTORY RECOVERY discs for your particular computer. They will ask you for the SERVICE TAG# on the black label on outside of computer case. Cost will be $29-$99 in US; and takes 2-3 weeks to ship to you. You can then purchase a new copy of Windows7 on ebay for around $120-$130 US and do an in-place upgrade from your Vista to Windows7. Your new boxed retail MS Windows7 disc will have a BRAND NEW LICENSE KEY that you will enter in order to activate the Windows7. If you don't have to have Win7 Professional; you can order Window7 Home Premium for around $90 US on ebay and save a little bit of money.

<<<BBJ>>>
 
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