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I want to format a used computer I just picked up at a yard sale. It has Windows 8 Pro with Media Center installed on it.
When I was going through the options and setting it up, I noticed a screen where I could refresh, remove or reset the PC. After doing some research, I found out that if I "Reset" the PC, it would format the hard drive(s) and reinstall Windows again to return the PC to factory settings.
I figured that this is the best (easiest, quickest, & most thorough) way to clean up the PC (remove all files & settings installed/set by previous user). I couldn't find out if you need the CD to perform this task. I don't have any Windows 8 CD(s), but I still want to keep Windows 8 installed.
Will I need any installation CD(s) for Windows 8 to "Reset" my PC?
OEM? is there a Win8 sticker on the box with the serial/key? Are there any extra/hidden partitions? Recover key if it does not have a OEM sticker, probably home built with retail key or upgrade. – Logman – 2013-07-01T00:18:07.607
@Logman: With Win8 PCs there are no COA stickers any more. – Karan – 2013-07-01T01:13:08.927
I'm going to add a recommendation that, if you are able to run it at all, you boot up once & get the licensing info from it (i.e. via Belarc Advisor or a similar tool.) That would just be a failsafe in case the recovery completely failed for some reason. But being presented with the option usually means there is a built-in recovery partition. Check the mfr's website, for that specific model, to be sure. – Debra – 2013-10-10T13:22:29.590