I've got a friend who needs his computer working in just a few hours. His files are safe, however, he managed to corrupt his main install of Windows 7. My plan is to go in with a Linux disk, copy his C:\ do a backup drive I've got and then reinstall.

Restoring many of his files will be pretty simple (such as documents and such), however, things such as applications won't transfer as easily. Is there any easy way to transfer applications such as MS Office (which he needs in the morning) or other commercial software packages without having to go through the hassle of locating the keys and reinstalling them completely?

I don't think just moving them over will work just because of the fact that I'm sure much of that is stored in the registry (validation stuff and such).

Anyways, quick responses would be super nice! Also, additional help would be great!