Re-installing or Clean installation of Vista possible?

[gopikrish]

oh okay. So there are 2 options I can do a clean install of vista,
1) Create Anytime Upgrade DVD - Using vlite and choosing existing software available in my harddisk(if its available)
2) Use my friends disk to do clean install and use my OEM license.

But before going for a clean install,
Just to solve my problem of IIS not working - Is there a way of reinstalling Vista ( i mean system files alone) instead of clean install using any of the above disks?
If not, any other method like creating a recovery disk for reinstalling?

FYI, I already tried system restore and since it didnt work I am trying for reinstalltion of system files alone. If that doesnt work I will go for clean install at the expense of data loss. Sorry I am no expert in this vista (especially laptop OS install stuff )

 

[richc46]

There is the option of a repair install. That is not suppose to cause any loss of personal files, but then who knows. It is always best to back up first.
Repair install, however sounds like what you are asking for.
http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/88236-repair-install-vista.html

 

[gopikrish]

Sorry got another doubt hopefully last

If I perform a clean install using vista installation disc. Like boot from DVD, format drive and install vista, should I enter my OEM key at the beginning of the installation phase? In the link below Installing Vista Clean, With No Crapware | directedge.us it says, Do not enter product key. We will take care of this later.

So I am wondering if I should do the same even if I have OEM key? Or I can enter the key when it asks at the first time? OR should I only use ABR utility for activation even if I am having OEM key?

 

[richc46]

Ilikefree suggested the ABR and I trust his judgement. All of the advice that he has given has always been very helpful.
If it were mine, however, I would use the OEM key. I say that only because I have used and understand the OEM key. I have no experience with the ABR.
May I suggest that we wait for Ilikefree and take advantage of his astute opinion.

 

[ilikefree]

OK, ABR will run on your system and find your activation key. It will make a txt file that you can drag to a usb or external drive. After you have installed the operating system you can run the ABR program again. Sometimes it won't install the code for you and you have to open the txt file and cut and paste it into where it should be.
I normally wait until the install is finished before activation, then do all the updates.
After the SP2 update you can run the complete pc clean that comes in SP2.
To do this open an elevated command prompt and type compcln.exe into the box, then Y to confirm.
Hope this clears things up for you.

EDIT: If you install with a retail copy DVD you will end up with a computer with just Vista NO OEM software will be there.