How to re-image a store-bought Windows Vista 64-bit?

Possible Duplicate:
Is there a product key finder for a PC?
How can an operating system be installed when the installation media is missing?

OK, so I have a Windows Vista... more specifically this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883103182 a Acer Aspire AX3200-U3600A Desktop.

I know, I know. Kill me.

Anyway, this computer did not come with a CD key if I recall correcty. I want to reimage it but wouldn't I need the installation CD?

test

Posted 2012-09-21T19:29:24.790

Reputation: 400

Are you sure there's no key? Typically on a sticker on the side of the machine. – Isaac Rabinovitch – 2012-09-21T20:22:47.793

This is essentially a dup of http://superuser.com/questions/176306/is-there-a-product-key-finder-for-a-pc

– Isaac Rabinovitch – 2012-09-21T20:24:01.850

This is not a dupe, see my answer. – Moab – 2012-09-21T23:30:52.510

Answers

Your Acer has a recovery partition, you can recover it by using Alt+F10 at the bios splash screen.

You can also make your own Recovery Media

Your Support Page

Moab

Posted 2012-09-21T19:29:24.790

Reputation: 54 203

The previous question How can an operating system be installed when the installation media is missing? appears to only cover Windows 7.

Here's a link on one of Dell's websites that describes a fairly involved process to create a bootable DVD for Windows Vista with SP1. Check is out and advise if this works for you.

HeatfanJohn

Posted 2012-09-21T19:29:24.790

Reputation: 443

1You may want to suggest an edit to the accepted answer to that question instead. – bwDraco – 2012-09-21T20:23:24.170

Thank you ... I will ... Do I do that by adding a comment to the accepted answer including the link? – HeatfanJohn – 2012-09-21T20:25:33.020

Click on the Edit link below the post to edit it, placing the link and associated text in the most appropriate location in the post. Your edit will be placed into a queue until it is reviewed; I will likely review the edit for you. – bwDraco – 2012-09-21T20:31:37.103

1Edit approved with some minor changes. – bwDraco – 2012-09-21T20:37:35.020

Thank you, I have contacted Acer for a chance they give me new installation CD. – test – 2012-09-21T20:44:34.680