I need help with replacing my hard drive.

[varun706]

Hi guys,

I have a Lenovo Ideapad Z500. I had installed Linux and pirated Windows on it before.

Now the hard drive is about to go kaput. So, I'm about to replace either the hard drive or the whole laptop since it is still covered under warranty.

So, I already took backup of all the applications I need. I want to have a genuine copy of Windows 8.1.

Will I get a replacement hard drive with Windows pre installed??

Or should I have my whole laptop replaced to get a genuine copy of Windows??

Please help me quick....

Thank You.

 

[aldan]

you will have to buy a legitmate copy of win8 and install it on your new hdd.

 

[Someone Somewhere]

That laptop should come with Windows anyway...

All you need to do is get hold of a set of reinstall discs. It's possible that Lenovo will put Windows back on it for you anyway.

 

[varun706]

I've kept buying a copy as a last resort option. Are you implying that if I replace either the hard drive or the laptop, I wouldn't get Windows preinstalled?

By the way, I didn't get any recovery media or anything from Lenovo. So if all fails, I can still get Lenovo to give my recovery discs, right??

 

[aldan]

yes if you buy a new laptop windows will most likely be preinstalled.not the case with a hdd tho.is there any product sticker from an os on your computer anywhere?

 

[varun706]

There is no sticker with a product key printed anywhere on the laptop. Should I ask them for an Installation disc or a Recovery disc?

 

[aldan]

if,as you say,it is still under warranty,just contact lenovo about warranty.i would let them deal with it.

 

[varun706]

That's exactly what I'm about to do. I'll have the hard drive replaced under the pretext of it being faulty. While getting the hard drive, I'll simply ask them to install Windows onto it.

Another question though, Will they charge for having to install OS on the replacement hard drive?? If so, how much??

 

[aldan]

if it came with win8 preinstalled it should be covered under the warranty.

 

[varun706]

Thanks aldan, you have been of great help.