I had problems with windows 7 hotfix installations and the windows suggestion was to repair (update) the OS from the system discs. So I did that using a matching win7 OS that I have around the house. I had known I'd need my product key at some point, but didn't realize the product key sticker on my aspire has been worn away and I can't read the complete key.
I called support and was told that they have no way to give me my OS key. I was also told Acer doesn't have unique keys for each PC. Microsoft told me Acer better have provided a unique key for every PC they sell and that the key is on the sticker. Acer's response was that they don't have unique product key with the computer. I understand there's and OEM key which is the factory installed key, but that doesn't work for activating the OS. The rep was kind enough to tell me that if I "reload" the OS to the laptop the key will be restored and I won't destroy my files. That is what I need. But there's no description of how to reload the OS, there's lots of descriptions of how to restore the OS, but that's distructive.
I have a set of 5 discs which I got from Acer including a Recovery Disc. But, I've found no documentation for what I'm trying to do. There's a message here on the board which also references reloading from the recovery disc, but stops short of describing how to do it. It may be a simple and straight-forward process, but I've got too much on this disk to risk doing the wrong thing. I know what I'm doing with PCs *and my data is backed up*, I'm just clueless about the Acer software and don't want to have to reinstall all my applications. Some applications are eduction related and will be very difficult to replace.
Is there a guide for how to do the non-distructive reload of the OS so I can restore the OEM key?
