HP Windows laptop question - no restore media provided, best way to wipe and reinstall Windows?

[clay]

Just bought a used HP Elitebook model something or other. Really nice specs for a Windows laptop. I'll probably end up selling it, but am interested in wiping the drive and starting from scratch. Of course, there were no install/restore discs with the laptop, and it would appear as though the recovery partition has been erased. I found an article on HP's website about how to purchase recovery media, but it would appear that there either isn't any available for my particular laptop, or I'm not smart enough to find it. It looks like my laptop is under warranty for another couple of years.

The machine is currently running Win 7 Home Premium, but there's a Windows 8 sticker on the bottom of the case, so I'm guessing there may have been an option to run Windows 8 on this thing. I like Windows 7, but I don't really care whether I get 7 or 8 to put back on this machine, as it's likely destined for resale. I just want a clean install of something before I unload it.

So...what's the best way forward? Buy a retail copy of Windows, download all the drivers from HP and sell it? I'd rather not spend ~$100 on what amounts to restore media, but I guess I'll do it if I have to. Does anyone know whether there's a decent phone support option for HP? Other recommendations?

[Mr645]

If there is a license number sticker in the bottom, you may be able to download a 30 day demo version of Windows and use that license to activate Windows.

Best I can come up with since I am certain holding down "R" while starting up won't automatically download and install an OS from the internet

[Robert M]

Clay,

Usually, the manufacturer expects you to make restore discs as one of the first tasks of using the machine. But, if you don't have them, it's worth giving them a call and asking. I needed restore disks for an old IBM laptop. A quick call and payment and I had new media on its way for me. I think it cost about $25.00. Worth every penny!

Robert

[clay]

thanks, guys. Was able to get on HP chat support and they supposedly have a set of restore discs ordered and should be here within 2-3 days. All for free! yay!

[The UnDoug]

Free rocks!

[clay]

The UnDoug wrote:
Free rocks!

sure does...I was prepared to spend in the $25 range, but pleased that they're sending it for free. I guess I'll save the big celebration for when it actually arrives :-)