niteshadow

First identify the exact model number and what your friend has or not (CDs). It helps if you have any Sony re-installation CD, as they will likely be compatible. But chances are there are no Windows re-installation CDs. Especially if it's Media Center 2004 (it would not ship with the XP CD). In any case I recommend to backup data and clone the hard drive just in case. When cloning choose the whole disk so you get all partitions (including any hidden ones). So get ready for that first, as it will give you peace of mind. I use Clonezilla mostly; use whatever you're comfortable with. The point is to restore the whole drive in case of problems. Then make sure you know about the correct System Recovery procedure. This depends on the model number, so research that at the Sony Support site. Most store notebooks will have an on-board recovery method that will restore the factory system (from hidden partition). This is invoked from the BIOS or by pressing F10 at boot Read Cannot start the VAIO Recovery Wizard from computer for an example. Very frequently, you need to run an application (Recovery Wizard) to actually create a system recovery DVD or CDs. Check the How to create the VAIO Recovery Media Kit for overview. In rare cases, you might have to check with Sony (they do sell recovery CDs). Once you identified the procedure, follow it to restore the system to factory settings. That's the best you can do if you don't have a Windows re-installation CD. When system is back to factory, update the drivers. While looking for drivers, check if your system has an available VAIO Applications Uninstaller software. This helps in removing applications that are trial, bloated or simply not needed. In any case remove junk to make it easy to maintain the notebook. Then apply Windows service packs, followed by updated components. I generally use Autopatcher for the latter, but it does not matter. Finally restore any data, re-install applications. At the end, re-clone the working system so it's faster to restore next time. With Windows there usually will be a next time Good luck!