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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 435
Smartchild
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OP
Smartchild
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 435 |
Have just found an old Compaq Presario cq71 in my spare room its running vista basic, is there an easy way to up it to windows 7 or similar I dont have any discs or manuals for machine.
It will not update to google chrome or connect to my wifi printer.
Any help much appreciated
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Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 14,550 Likes: 34
Wiki Master
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Wiki Master
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 14,550 Likes: 34 |
You can download generic Windows 7 windows from microsoft for free but ideally you will also need a COA which you can get off ebay for less than £10.
The only thing that worries me is some laptops that expect a manufacturers version of windows (some dell, hp etc) might not work with a generic COA, tbh I can't remember.
You might have to dig out some drivers, they are on the HP website.
I think most cq71's are capable of running Windows 10, Microsoft download is free, ebay licenses are cheaper. You can run it without a license to try it out, it will nag you occasionally and may not update.
Sorry, Windows 7 is a dim memory these days.
There's a real danger that the left will drag Britain back to the 1970s, with secure well-paid jobs, ample housing, properly-funded NHS and social care, free tuition, student grants, final salary pensions, affordable rail fares and fabulous films and music. David Osland 2025 We don't do charity in Germany, we pay taxes. Charity is a failure of governments' responsibilities - Henning Wehn https://ddue.uk
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Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 2,293 Likes: 3
Forum Master
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Forum Master
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 2,293 Likes: 3 |
You might be better skipping 7, seeing as how support is about to end and just go for Windows 10.
I refurb a few old computers from time to time and found Windows 10 performs much better on older kit than 7, and more drivers are present from the start.
Other than that, you might want to give ANTIX LINUX a try. Its free and runs really fast on older computers.
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Joined: Sep 2022
Posts: 16
Newbeee
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Newbeee
Joined: Sep 2022
Posts: 16 |
You could check if your computer meets the minimum requirements for the upgrade and purchase a Windows 7 installation disc. Alternatively, you could consider upgrading to a more recent version of Windows or even try a free, open-source operating system like Linux. As for your wifi printer and Google Chrome issues, have you tried downloading and installing the latest drivers for your printer and using a different browser like Firefox?
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Joined: Jul 2022
Posts: 10
Newbeee
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Newbeee
Joined: Jul 2022
Posts: 10 |
I’m aware this answer comes a bit late, but for others who might have the same question. Upgrading to Windows 7 or a newer operating system can definitely improve your experience. Unfortunately, without the installation discs or manuals, upgrading might be a bit tricky. However, you can explore a few options, such as creating a bootable USB drive or purchasing a new operating system.
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Joined: Jul 2022
Posts: 10
Newbeee
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Newbeee
Joined: Jul 2022
Posts: 10 |
I’m aware this answer comes a bit late, but for others who might have the same question. Upgrading to Windows 7 or a newer operating system can definitely improve your experience. Unfortunately, without the installation discs or manuals, upgrading might be a bit tricky. However, you can explore a few options, such as creating a bootable USB drive or purchasing a new operating system. Additionally, you might want to check out the windows 10 product key reddit community to get legit keys for upgrading your system to the latest version. However, be cautious and only obtain software and keys from reputable sources to avoid any potential security risks.
Last edited by capitulinagarage; 26th Mar 2023 8:44pm.
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