How to reinstall Windows without losing personal files
By Tom Nonmacher
If you're experiencing significant computer issues, reinstalling Windows might be the best solution. However, one common concern when it comes to reinstalling an operating system is the potential loss of personal files. This blog post will guide you on how to reinstall Windows without losing your personal files. This can be a lifesaver, especially if you do not have a recent backup of your files.
Firstly, it is essential to understand that Microsoft has provided a feature called "Reset this PC" in its Windows 10 operating system. This feature, when used correctly, allows you to reinstall Windows without losing your personal files. It provides two options: "Keep my files" and "Remove everything." The first option reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files intact. The second option removes everything, including your personal files, and reinstalls Windows. For the purpose of this guide, we will be using the "Keep my files" option.
To get started, click on the Windows Start button and navigate to settings. From settings, select "Update & Security," and then choose "Recovery" from the left-hand menu. Under the "Reset this PC" section, click on "Get started." A new window will open offering the two options we mentioned earlier. Select "Keep my files." This option will remove apps and settings but keeps your personal files.
When you click on "Keep my files," Windows will display a list of apps that will be removed during the process. Make sure you have the installation files or access to reinstall these apps. After reviewing this, click on "Next." The system will then ask for your final confirmation. If everything looks good, click on "Reset" to begin the process. Your PC will restart, and the Windows installation process will begin.
While the "Reset this PC" feature is incredibly helpful, it's essential to know that it doesn't guarantee that all your files will be kept intact. There is always a risk of data loss when reinstalling an operating system. Therefore, it's highly recommended to perform a backup of all your important files before proceeding with this process. You can use an external hard drive, a USB flash drive, or a cloud storage service for the backup.
Reinstalling Windows doesn't need to be a daunting task. By following these steps, you can reinstall your Windows operating system without losing your personal files. Remember, always perform a backup of your important files before starting the process. It's always better to have a safety net in case things don't go as planned. Happy computing!