I am going to explain this point-by-point:
♦ I requested a Windows 8 reinstallation disc.
♦ I got the WIndows 8 Operating Re-installation disc and the drivers/utilities disc.
♦ I tried to use it from my desktop (computer on) and it wouldn't let me proceed without a product key.
♦ So I tried to use it from the boot menu and it gives me some error about files being deleted or missing or something and won't let me do the "Windows Setup" option in boot.
♦ I sent an e-mail to Dell Support (if you can even call it support) asking for assistance.
♦ He gave me a link to a help.com page that tells you how to install Windows 8 after buying it online/downloading the ISO image.
♦ I re-explained my situation.
♦ He told me the disc is Dell pre-approved and doesn't require a product key and should work on my computer.
♦ I told him it still wants one
♦ He told me to boot from the boot menu/restart my computer wth the disc.
♦ For a third time, I told him that it won't let me do that either.
♦ He replies with a link to a survery to fill out saying how good I thought the customer support I got was and told me to reply with the best time to call so his supervisor can call me to confirm my problem was solved.
I am not joking and I am being quite literal when I say that EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. me and/or my family needs help from DELL, it is nearly impossible. So can someone please just tell me how the hell I'm supposed to download this re installation disc that "doesn't need a product key" even though it won't let me continue in the installation without a product key.
And it is not the same product key as my computer's pre-installed windows 8.
Seriously. I need help. This has turned into a month-long problem.