Windows 7 installation problem

[Harri_]

I recently built a new pc and now trying to reinstall windows however, the image is missing because I formatted the hard drive and SSD so in not sure how to get it back!!
If I can get this problem sorted out I will be greatly appreciated

 

[SkyNetRising]

the image is missing

What do you mean by that?
Boot from windows installation media and install away.

 

[Phillip Corcoran]

If I understand you correctly, you created a system image of the Windows installation but then made the mistake of formatting the partition which contained that image - - is that correct?

If yes, I reckon you're pretty well screwed.

However, you could try connecting that drive to a working PC, then use partition recovery software to see if it can recover that image (google partition recovery software, there's quite a few).

Failing that you'll have to re-install Windows from scratch.

In future keep your system image backed up to another location, I have mine backed up on four separate external hard drives. Just having one instance of it is not enough.

 

[Harri_]

I think that is exactly what happened and thanks for the solution

 

[SkyNetRising]

If you built a new PC (and used different motherboard with different chipset than on your original PC),
then you'll have to reinstall windows to avoid various performance and compatibility issues.
I'm afraid your old system image will be no good.

 

[Harri_]

But how do I get it with out paying?

 

[SkyNetRising]

Was your windows 7 - retail or oem version?
If retail, then you can transfer license to another computer. If oem, then not.

Alternatively you can upgrade windows 7 to windows 10 on your old pc.
Install anniversary update and link windows license to your microsoft account.
Install windows 10 on new computer and use activation troubleshooter to transfer license to your new PC.

Free upgrade to windows 10 is still available to those who use assistive technologies.
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/accessibility/windows10upgrade

If you're worried if this upgrade is meant for you ...
have you used any of windows accessibility features? narrator? magnifier? high contrast themes?
Well - those are considered assistive technologies too. If you use them, then you are allowed to upgrade.

 

[Harri_]

Im not entirely sure what one I have but when I purchased my first PC it had a Windows code on the side of the case so maybe that can help the answer? I Don't really want to upgrade because isn't Windows 7 the best for gaming?

 

[SkyNetRising]

If you have not bought windows license separately from your PC, then it's most likely OEM license.
You may try calling microsoft and tell that your pc mainboard broke, you replaced it and need help to activate windows.
But they may refuse because it's OEM license.

If you upgrade to windows 10, you don't need to call anyone.
And windows 10 supports directx 12, windows 7 - doesn't. That will be necessary for future games.