Is the a legal site I can download Windows Vista, I have my own key, I know there are sites you can get win 7, but can not find any for Vista.

Visit microsoft.
I'm lead to believe that all old O S are available for download free. Not sure if vista may be part of that list with it still being a supported O S.

Vista is an OS I skipped.

Does your machine have a recovery partition?

I need to find that microsoft download page myself?

no recovery partion, it use to have vista on it, but he got a mate to put win7 on it, (dodgy copy) now its gone wrong, i have managed to get the win 7 working, but there are no drivers for wireless onit, i have gone on to manufacture site all drivers are for vista.

It still has vista code on laptop, so i thought if i can get a vista home premium, i will put that on it, and then can get drivers.


Just found out bios has password so can not put visat onit

Looks like I will have to look harder?
I'm not finding the page of os downloads from microsoft.

But what is clear is that the cd key is so important.

I have found page for win7 versions

Bios password shouldnt stop an install?

When I go into set up to try to boot from disc drive, it asks for bios password

Power off (plug out)

Remove CMOS battery

Either short pins or use Clear CMOS jumper (for about 10 seconds)

Battery back in

Password should be clear (depending on system)


If you just need a disc and have your own COA key just call in and pick one up


Which make/model is it ?

Can not remove cmos battery, its a battery pack soldered on to board, and there is no jumper to reset.

Job sorted see above

Is there an alternative to select your boot device?
On modern machines it can be F11 or F2 that could give you the Boot List your needing to get to.

I wonder if your friend put a password on it?
As he must have come across the same issue.

Try POWER OFF (it gives you more time).
And try the F keys to see if there is a quick boot menu.
If there is your good to go.

Hope that helps.
You may have to power off several times to catch it.
Re-booting can skip that option. So always Power off.