I installed Mint (Cinnamon) to get rid of my Windows 10. Now, for a number of reasons, including wanting to sell this 6 year old doorstop computer, I want to re-install Windows. This Dell came with Win7.
I have both a "re-installation disk", and the downloaded USB boot file "Windows Recovery".
Dell imprints the version and product key for the version of windows they install before shipment. Supposedly, a person can run either of the above boot sources and the factory installed version of Windows will be restored.
Ain't happenin'!
When I change the 1st Boot device to either the CD or the USB in CMOS, upon reboot the computer just sits there with a command screen and a flashing cursor. None of the Dell installation guides help with this.
So my real question to you Linux gurus is what do I need to do through Linux to get these restore programs to run? Anything? Or is it just another Windows SNAFU?
I really appreciate any advice. If I can eliminate Linux as part of the problem, I can look elsewhere.
I have both a "re-installation disk", and the downloaded USB boot file "Windows Recovery".
Dell imprints the version and product key for the version of windows they install before shipment. Supposedly, a person can run either of the above boot sources and the factory installed version of Windows will be restored.
Ain't happenin'!
When I change the 1st Boot device to either the CD or the USB in CMOS, upon reboot the computer just sits there with a command screen and a flashing cursor. None of the Dell installation guides help with this.
So my real question to you Linux gurus is what do I need to do through Linux to get these restore programs to run? Anything? Or is it just another Windows SNAFU?
I really appreciate any advice. If I can eliminate Linux as part of the problem, I can look elsewhere.