Q&A for How to Reinstall Windows 7

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What do I do if Windows could not update the computer's boot configuration, so installation cannot proceed?

Community Answer

Restart the computer, update everything you can and end all tasks that are currently running.

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I have forgotten my log-in password. What can I do?

Community Answer

Make a new account and start over.

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Is it bad to press buttons during the installation process?

Community Answer

Definitely. You could easily abort the installation process and have to restart from the beginning.

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My PC doesn't want to open CMD winver explorer mspaint and control. What shoult i do?

Community Answer

Download a new one (using a WIM file viewer, open the install.wim file in the windows setup CD and replace cmd, explorer, winver, and every other broken exe). You could also run powershell as admin and type sfc/scannow.

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Question

Unable to grant rights with UAC messages pop up. I get a UAC message which reads " To continue, type an administrator password, and then click yes. But there is no text box to type in. Yes is greyed.

Community Answer

Try safe mode with command prompt. To give admin access to a user account in Windows, type: net localgroup administrators /add.

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How do I reinstall Windows 7 if my PC is stuck on a black screen with a cursor after starting the machine?

Community Answer

If the screen says "Starting Windows", your computer might be too new for Windows 7. Try startup repair in the Windows 7 installation CD. If that does not work, boot into the Windows 7 installation CD and click "Install Now".

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I had to replace my hard drive and don't have the Windows disc. Can I find it on the internet? I have the key on the sticker on my computer.

Community Answer

Yes. Windows 7 is easy to find online. Just make sure to download the correct version for your product key (most likely Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate).

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Drivers are missing. What should I do?

Sakshi Sharma

Community Answer

Click on the Windows "Start" menu and select "Control Panel." Open "Device Manager" to see a list of all devices connected to your computer.

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Question

How do I reload Windows 7 Ultimate and keep all my data and apps?

Jacob

Community Answer

Before reinstalling, try performing a Startup Repair. Restart your computer and, as it restarts, press and hold the F8 key before the Windows logo appears. Use the arrow keys to select 'Repair Your Computer' and press Enter. Select your language settings, click Next, and then click 'Repair your computer.' Choose 'Startup Repair' and click the Finish button.

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How do I activate Windows 7 after a clean install on a larger SSD, since Microsoft no longer allows activation by phone or internet?

Community Answer

You can still activate Windows 7 via phone. Ensure your product key is valid and can be found on the side of your computer or in the DVD case.

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Question

If I format my C drive and reinstall Windows 7, will I be able to use Windows Update to download past updates?

Rieth shawn Mears

Community Answer

Yes, you can use Windows Update to download past updates after reinstalling Windows 7. However, keep in mind to reinstall necessary drivers, check for updates, install them, restart your PC, and use the Windows Update Troubleshooter if needed.

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Question

If I reinstall Windows 7, can I use Windows Update to update the OS?

Aston Koena

Community Answer

If you reinstall Windows 7, you won't be able to use Windows Update to get the latest updates because Microsoft ended support for it on January 14, 2020. This means you won't receive new security updates, bug fixes, or features. However, if you have a version with Service Pack 1 (SP1), you might be able to install some past updates manually. It's better to upgrade to Windows 10 or 11.

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