Clean install in Dell Inspiron

Operating Systems & Open Source Windows
1

So, lately my Dell Inspiron N5110 has been slowing down at fast rate, (hell, itunes scares me) and said to myself that I need a clean install.

Firstly I'm not sure if a reinstall CD or anything of the sort came with the laptop so propably I will use a retail disc, and my question is: will a clean Windows install have any effect on drivers (I don't know maybe wi-fi, touchpad, CD/DVD drive, battery...).

On a side note which OS sould I install win8 or 7?

Specs

-Core i3
-3gb RAM
-320GB HDD

I guess that's it... 
Thanks :) 

2

You should be able to wipe the computer back to dell factory settings without buying windows 7 & 8. just look for video's about it on youtube 

3

Thanks for your response.

I might have found something on youtube about about restoring windows 7. The thing is I really don't want to have Dell bloatware, let alone uninstall it. However I don't mind installing new drivers as long as it is possible. 

So, I ask my original question again, can I install a retail version of windows 7 on my dell without having any issues with drivers.

Thanks

4

You can but you will have to find all the dell drivers witch is a pain most of the time if bloatware is really that bad then shure go ahead but mind serfing the dell website for hours trying to find drivers 

5

OK, thanks man.... I've already made some research and found plenty of drivers.

one last question though, would these drivers include the ones for the touchpad or wifi? And if a touchpad needs a driver from Dell I think that an external mouse sould do the job for a while right?

I'm sorry if these are silly questions but I never really temperes with laptops.

Thanks again :)

6

sometimes laptops need drivers for wired / wireless internet. so make sure you have access to another computer and have a flashdrive

7

yeah, sometimes bloatware can be pretty annoying... like HP.... their bloatware is basically 'BUY MORE HP STUFF' disgused as a 'tech support' toolbar.

thankfully, i have an ASUS... not much bloatware... and some of what there is is actually somewhat useful... like facial recognition login, and the power4gear power management, and the virtual camera tool, and even fastboot

8

Does it not still have the Windows CD key on the bottom? You could look up a guide on installing windows 7 off a usb and then atleast windows would be free. As for drivers, most drivers windows will have generic drivers for (wireless, touchpad etc). So it shouldnt be too much of a problem.

9

Ok guys thanks so much for your help. This really is an awesome community.

I may write back with my progress :)

10

Ok, so I reinstalled windows and everything went fine. Luckily i remembered I had a drivers and utilities disc that came with the notebook. Found it useful even though it took me about an hour to install the urgent drivers. Other drivers will be installed down the road...

Thanks:)