Why is Windows 7 gone if I change my hard drive?

I just replaced a "broken" hard drive in a Dell Inspiron N5110 laptop and it looks like Windows 7 is gone. Is the operating system saved/stored on the hard drive? If so, does that mean I need to buy a new OS or is there another way? I have a warranty on this computer: could a failed HD be covered?

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3 Answers

Yes, it is stored on the harddrive.

You will need to:

• Reinstall windows from the DVD you got from Dell (if you ticked that EUR 5 option)
• Or find someone with the same windows version DVD and borrow that. (that means the Dell OEM version of it, not a non-OEM version)
• Or download a legal copy of the DVD and use the CoA on your laptop. (That is the sticker with the five sets of numbers and letter).

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Is the operating system saved/stored on the hard drive? In your case - YES
If so, does that mean I need to buy a new OS or is there another way? That depends of type of license (u also may install some linux distro - for free)
I have a warranty on this computer: could a failed HD be covered? replaced - YES

PS: drive replacement should produce seller, otherwise the warranty may be lost

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Yes, everything that your computer needs to run is inside the hard drive (aside from the BIOS). Yes, you would have to buy a new OS, or if the old drive is not completely dead, you could try to transfer the data too the new hard drive. Try if you need to transfer. The warranty may cover it, but it varies from company to company. Try calling their customer service.

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