Windows 8 hard drive change on a hp laptop

[Arslan Qureshi]

I want to change my hard drive, I want to know is, how do I install windows on a different hard drive while using the same OEM key that is with my laptop, I can not use the OEM recovery software that came with the laptop(don't ask)
Give me an answer that does not include the OEM recovery software that came pre installed with the laptop.

 

[smorizio]

you can call hp and have them send you for a small cost a restore cd. they may even have the laptop iso image online for users to download. if not you can try downloading from digital rivers a true windows iso image and see if it takes your laptops oem number if not you have to buy a new copy of windows.

 

[ronintexas]

Downloading an ISO from digital river will allow you to use your original activation key (oem).

 

[mbreslin1954]

I agree with ronintexas, get a copy of the same version of Windows that came with your PC, burn it to a DVD or to a flash drive using the Windows USB DVD download tool. It should take your OEM license key.