In the last few years, computer manufacturers have moved away from Recovery CDs to Recovery Partitions within the computer itself. Theoretically, this was developed to cut down on the number of consumers who lose or damage their Recovery CDs. However, how does this help those who do not have computers with Recovery Partitions? Well, it doesn't.

This document was inspired by RGreen's post within this discussion. The following steps will allow you to request (purchase) a Recovery CD or a set of Recovery CDs from HP. As most PCWorld forum members know, I like to show steps in points rather than paragraphs. I think people get the full picture in a point format rather than anything else.

• Go to www.hp.com

• Click on "Software & Driver Downloads" in the lower left hand corner of the page

• In the center of the page, type in your computer's model number (In this case, ZE2308wm) then click on the >>

• On the next screen, select which Operation System you use (In this case, Windows XP)

• Scroll about 2/3 of the way down the page and look for "CD-ROM Order Page - Recovery Discs"

• Click on the Recovery Disc link that suits your needs (In this case, Notebook Recovery Disc Set Windows XP Home)

• On the next screen, within the "Online Ordering" section, select to which country you want the Recovery CD(s) sent (United States or Canada) then click "Submit>>"

**There is an option to order by phone**

• The next screen is where you fill out the necessary computer information (Serial Number), quantity of Recovery CD(s) needed, and basic shipping instructions

• Click "Next>>" once all of this is filled out

• On the following screen, you will see the breakdown of how much it will cost to get the Recovery CD (In this case, $16). I am sure the price will vary greatly depending on:

**Shipping Method
**Zip Code or Postal Code to where the Recovery CD(s) are going
**Applicable Tax
**Quantity ordered

• If you are satisfied with the order, click "Next>>"

• The next screen will ask for the detailed shipping information (Address and Phone Number are Mandatory - Email is Optional)

• Once you have filled out all necessary information, click "Next>>"

• The final screen is where you enter your credit card information. For those that either do not have a credit card or choose not to use one, you should probably choose the option to order by phone.

• Once all information is entered, click "Submit>>"

Additionally, these steps are detailed within tutorials by HP. The tutorials are divided by region of the world it represents: (Click on the hyperlink of your choice to get full details)

North America (United States & Canada)

Europe, Middle East, and Africa

These steps will save time, effort, and most importantly, money if and when you ever need to reinstall or repair your HP computer. I hope this Document helps and as time goes on, I hope more Documents regarding Online Recovery CD for other manufacturers are created.