it has a Windows8 sticker on the bottom
If its got a sticker in good condition on the bottom then you're OK to install the same version of Windows as printed on the sticker (I'm guessing your problem in this instance is that the sticker doesn't say Ultimate).
Getting hold of the OEM media to reinstall might be a bit of a challenge, but the original hardware manufacturer (Asus) might be happy to oblige ?
The other option (which admittedly would involve parting with more money) would just be to buy a retail copy of Windows to install on your laptop. This would have the added benefit of being a transferrable license (unlike the OEM license), so perhaps giving you a little extra flexibility in the future.
. Now, here's the thing. If I do the normal re-install, I'm stuck with the partitions again. Erm, I am, aren't I?
If you can get hold of kosher OEM media and re-install that way, you can partition any way you like.
Used to be easy in the old days when Microsoft gold hologram CDs were distributed with the hardware, but now with electronic media, you either need the manufacturer's assistance or access to the right parts of the Microsoft website (do you have a kosher PC repair shop near you who might be willing to burn a DVD for you ?).
Their Geek Squad said, No, its identity is now stored in the machine.
Absolute rubbish.
Since time immemorial (and I don't think they've changed the policy with Windows 8), Microsoft have made it a contractual requirement for system manufacturers / system builders / whatever you want to call them to affix the OEM (COA) sticker to the machine if they are bundling an OEM Windows license with the machine.
The OEM Windows license lives and dies with the machine, hence the policy requirement of affixing the tamper-proof sticker to the machine.
Evidence of tampering with said sticker does not bode well, and infact, if you're not going to do anything else, you should at least anonymously report the seller to Microsoft via the anonymous FAST system.
But then, I'm the most gullible person on Earth.
Don't think its gullible, more just you being potentially taken advantage of.
Major aspects of software licensing are easy for most to get a grasp on and blatantly obvious to spot.
But nitty gritty stuff like this... you have to have a had a few years experience in the industry to be able to spot it on a whim. Its easy to spot when you know what you're looking for, but most people only ever buy one or two PCs and refresh them every five or more years... so they don't get the practice of looking out for stuff.
Bit like buying second hand cars really... I'd probably end up buying a lemon if left to my own devices with Craig$list.
