Hi, Hope someone can help. I got a free PC (HP Vectra VL 420) from the company I work for - which was replaced with a newer model. It is completely blank (HD wiped). What is the best way (free !!) to get it running for internet access and MS Office ?? The PC was loaded with XP Professional and the key number is still with the PC. Anyone help ? Many thanks, Joe.
So you have a monitor with a blinking cursor top left and a blank screen...Yes? You need to install an operating system like it had (xp) previous. There are no freebies when it comes to microsofts XP. Any other method of obtaining such other than purchasing is simply piracy, and so not allowed here at AD. Xp is relatively cheap these days as Vista has come to light. Forget the key number from the original install....it won't help any as the HDD has been wiped. Microsoft office is a totally separate install again, and as above, must be genuine.
Free? You coud try a version of the Linux OS such as Ubuntu which is free to download or they will even mail you an installation disc. At least that will connect you to the internet. After that try Open Office a free full featured office suite compatible with Microsoft Office. I must admit that I have tried both and while serviceable, I overwhelmingly prefer Windows.
LOL.. are you as lazy as I? Sent joe a pm (before) to get him sorted with torrents etc. Haven't heard back just yet, but hopefully he got what he wanted. Cheers.