@KosherTelephone Until you realize that: 1. You don't have the real Windows DVD (I think Dell is the only major company that still include a real Windows DVD on consumer PCs). 2. You don't even have a restore disc (On HP PCs, you have to create your own restore DVD, they're not included) 3. Even if you have a restore disc, it will simply put back all the junk
@pika2000 Step 1: Use the Activation Backup tool to backup the OEM activation certificates and activation data. Step 2: Download a Windows 7 ISO, remove the ei.cfg file and either burn to DVD or copy to USB drive. Step 3: Install Windows, making sure you pick the correct edition. Step 4: Use the Activation Backup tool to restore your activation data.
Ofc, it's idiotic that PC buyers should have to go through this crap in the first place. If they're going to pre-install software, they should make sure it's worthwhile stuff like Chrome/Firefox, Microsoft Security Essentials or CCleaner.
I think Microsoft at least should provide a free ISO download of Windows. I mean you still need the key to activate it anyway, so why not just put up the Windows ISO online so people that are screwed by the likes of HP can at least have a real Windows DVD on hand.
@r3loaded - Most manufacturers have smartened up. My Asus came with no bloatware other than an anti-virus trial, and did have quite useful applications installed specific to the unit. Dell Zino is as good as long as you unclick on the default free trial stuff they give you when ordering online, but that probably doesn't apply to store bought.
HP I believe is still as bad as always about the bloat.
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How to optimize a prebuilt Windows PC:
Format hard drive, reinstall Windows.
@KosherTelephone Until you realize that:
1. You don't have the real Windows DVD (I think Dell is the only major company that still include a real Windows DVD on consumer PCs).
2. You don't even have a restore disc (On HP PCs, you have to create your own restore DVD, they're not included)
3. Even if you have a restore disc, it will simply put back all the junk
@pika2000
"(I think Dell is the only major company that still include a real Windows DVD on consumer PCs)."
Samsung does. At least with some models.
@pika2000
Step 1: Use the Activation Backup tool to backup the OEM activation certificates and activation data.
Step 2: Download a Windows 7 ISO, remove the ei.cfg file and either burn to DVD or copy to USB drive.
Step 3: Install Windows, making sure you pick the correct edition.
Step 4: Use the Activation Backup tool to restore your activation data.
Ofc, it's idiotic that PC buyers should have to go through this crap in the first place. If they're going to pre-install software, they should make sure it's worthwhile stuff like Chrome/Firefox, Microsoft Security Essentials or CCleaner.
I think Microsoft at least should provide a free ISO download of Windows. I mean you still need the key to activate it anyway, so why not just put up the Windows ISO online so people that are screwed by the likes of HP can at least have a real Windows DVD on hand.
@r3loaded - Most manufacturers have smartened up. My Asus came with no bloatware other than an anti-virus trial, and did have quite useful applications installed specific to the unit. Dell Zino is as good as long as you unclick on the default free trial stuff they give you when ordering online, but that probably doesn't apply to store bought.
HP I believe is still as bad as always about the bloat.
@r3loaded
What you just explained should be the optimization best buy charges for.
@pika2000
toshiba does