Solved "Some files are missing etc

Hi, I hope someone can help me. I’m trying to refresh my laptop as I’m having some problem’s I cannot resolve.
At present I’m running windows 8.1 32 bit BUT originally it was running Vista and I upgraded on line via the Microsoft download assistant.
When I try to refresh my pc I get a message saying “Some files are missing, you’re windows installation or recovery media will provide these files”
This is where I begin to get lost, the only discs I have are the ones that came with my Dell laptop which will be for Vista.
I can follow Dells instructions for a factory reset but I would lose office 2010 and windows 8. Although I have the windows 8 license key I have read that it cannot be used for a complete install just a upgrade.
I have read tutorials on making recovery media onto a USB device. But none of these seem to cover my situation i.e. upgrading from Vista.
I have tried contacting Microsoft support UK but it seems they have technical problems with their support website. LOL what chance have I got.
Thanks in advance all ideas solutions welcome.

sparkie415 said:

When I try to refresh my pc I get a message saying “Some files are missing, you’re windows installation or recovery media will provide these files”

Click to expand...

Quote from this post:

> OPTION TWO <

If you don't have an OEM PC that came with Windows 8 preinstalled and you updated Windows 8 to Windows 8.1, then when you refresh or reset Windows, it will reinstall Windows 8.1, but only if you have Windows 8.1 USB/DVD installation media.

Note: You must insert Windows 8.1 USB/DVD installation media. See this link: How to download Windows 8.1 installation media.

If you don't insert any installation media or if you insert Windows 8 USB/DVD installation media, then you receive the following error message: "Insert Media. Some files are missing. Your Windows installation or recovery media will provide these files." (see screenshot below).

Click to expand...

sparkie415 said:

Although I have the windows 8 license key I have read that it cannot be used for a complete install just a upgrade.

Click to expand...

How to download and clean install Windows 8.1 if you don't have an OEM computer that came with Windows 8/8.1 preinstalled. -> link

Note: This Windows 8.1 installation media accepts Windows 8/8.1 product keys, both OEM and retail (for example, "Windows 8 Pro $15 Upgrade Offer" product key).

Click to expand...

HI genet, Thank you so much for you're clear and precise instructions. I will follow them in great detail and let you know how i got on.

Once again thank you, regards Dom

genet THANK YOU

HI genet,
Firstly please except my apologizes for not getting back to you sooner, i followed your instructions and all went well

Secondly once again thank you.


Regards Dom

You are welcome.