How do I do a clean install of Windows 10 on my Aspire 7600U? I've tried every method I can find.

RKeenan67

Since July I have tried numerous times to download and install Windows 10 but to no avail. The process gets about half-way through and the computer revert to Win 8.1.

I've downloaded the instlalation files to a flash drive and am about to do a clean install; reformating the hard drive, etc. My concern is with the product key for Win 8.1. I bought the machine with Win 7 installed and a free upgrade to Win 8.0. I can't find a product key for Win 7, Win 8, or Win 8.1, and one site on the internet says that I will need one to activate Win 10 after a clean install.

Does anyone have a solution? A way to find the Win 8.1 product key? or whatever I need to assure I can use Win 10 after the free install?

btw, I'm a new user.

IronFly

windows 7 product key, normally is on a sticker but your windows 7 product key can't be used anymore, since you updated to windows 8.1

 

you can find your actual product key using command prompt or VBS:

http://www.thewindowsclub.com/find-windows-product-key

 

to download an updated windows 10 installation media, use this tool:

http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=691209

 

it will let you create a bootable DVD or USB flash drive, you can do a clean install skipping the product key steps during installation and then use you product key once in desktop.

 

windows key logo - settings - update and security - Activation (left side of screen)

 

before proceeding with a clean install, i would do a system image/clone HDD, so in the worst case you can fully revert to your actual status.