Installing Windows 7 Without a DVD Drive? [Archive]

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Nawid A

10-21-2009, 10:43 PM

So my Win7 DVD should be coming in the mail soon. Only problem is my laptop doesn't have a DVD drive nor do I have access to an external. How would I install Windows 7?

LMN8R

10-21-2009, 10:46 PM

Use another computer to create an ISO from the DVD, transfer the ISO via network or flash drive to your computer, extract ISO using WinRAR to your computer, run Win7 install from the extracted directory.

mono

10-21-2009, 10:51 PM

Or, install from USB thumb drive:
http://www.intowindows.com/how-to-install-windows-7vista-from-usb-drive-detailed-100-working-guide/

You'll still need access to another PC with a DVD drive to prep the USB key.

mkozlows

10-22-2009, 06:51 AM

The thumb drive thing definitely works -- I installed it on my discless ThinkPad that way.

Nawid A

10-22-2009, 11:22 AM

Ah I like the USB idea.

Tciecka

10-26-2009, 03:01 AM

I just used the USB method to install Win7 x64. It was super easy.

Also, do make sure that you're using a USB 2 drive. Otherwise, the install will be....slow.

jellyfish

10-26-2009, 09:08 AM

Is there any way to install it if you don't have a motherboard?

OrfBC

10-26-2009, 09:12 AM

Help computer...

Gotta stop all the downloadin'...

Brad Grenz

10-26-2009, 09:21 AM

Is there any way to install it if you don't have a motherboard?

Yes, but you have to open up the case and tape the install DVD to your hard drive. But it will only boot into super-secret silent mode with this method. You won't actually be able to interact with the desktop. The interface in this mode is multi-wish based.

RyanMichael

10-26-2009, 10:07 AM

Is there any way to install it if you don't have a motherboard?

This is a joke, right?