Can You Update To Windows 10 Without Losing Data

IT Pro is supported by its audition. When you purchase through links on our site, nosotros may earn an affiliate commission. Larn more

How to reinstall Windows 10 without losing data

Reinstalling Windows x can wipe your system make clean; here'south how to keep your files intact

"Accept y'all tried switching information technology off and on?" is the famous catchphrase of Roy from The IT Crowd. It's funny because it'southward the virtually obvious identify to first when your PC goes askew, and yet many people fail to think of information technology when the fourth dimension comes.

However, when your Windows 10 automobile throws up the blue screen of death (BSOD), or you take a frustratingly sluggish PC, fully reinstalling Windows ten could be the best fashion to manage the downtime or loss of efficiency. A reinstallation may likewise reverse problematic updates, lilliputian security patches or even commuter installation.

Brilliantly, Microsoft also allows for existing data to be retained during the reinstallation process. And, in this guide, we will walk yous through the steps to reinstall Windows x and reset your machine to its default settings, without losing whatsoever data.

How to manufacturing plant reset Windows 10 without losing data

At that place are iii means to reset Windows x without losing your existing data, with each offering a nearly enough the same results through dissimilar methods.

Method 1: Using the "Reset this PC" option

The first option is the archetype "Reset this PC" which tin can be found with the following steps:

Note: This is arguably the fastest way to reset the machine, though at that place is one caveat. "Reset this PC" only allows users to keep files. And all user-installed apps and programs volition be lost. To avoid loss of pre-existing apps, drivers and programs, we recommend bankroll up all important data before going alee with this method of reset.

Method 2: Using the Advanced Startup card

To reinstall Windows 10 using the Avant-garde Startup option, utilise the following steps

Click on the Start button on the lower left-hand corner of the screen.
Click the "Settings" on the left pane in the Start card.
Click "Update & Security," so click "Recovery."
Click on the "Restart now" under the "Avant-garde startup" section in the correct pane. Windows volition restart into the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) manner. Alternatively, pressing the 'F11' button equally soon as yous ability on your PC will get you to the Windows x Avant-garde Startup options. This technique is beneficial when you lot can't kicking your PC the usual way.
Click "Troubleshoot" in one case y'all enter WinRE mode.
Click "Reset this PC" in the following screen, leading y'all to the reset system window.
Select "Keep my files" and click "Side by side" so "Reset."
Click "Go along" when a popup appears and prompts you to continue reinstalling the Windows 10 operating system.

Notation: Like method ane, you'll need to have a backup of all your data before resetting, every bit Windows volition only save your files and wipe out apps, drivers and programs during reinstallation.

Method 3: Using Windows 10 ISO image file

An ISO file, commonly known as ISO image, is an archive file that contains an identical copy or image of information institute on an optical disc, such as a CD or DVD. Information technology allows y'all to reinstall Windows ten and go on files given your computer is bootable.

Here are the steps you need to follow to reinstall Windows x using ISO prototype:

Download Microsoft'south media creation tool to create Windows 10 ISO file.
After downloading the newly-created ISO file, correct-click on it and select "Mount" to go on.
Double-click the Setup.exe file at the root directory.
Choose the right option when prompted to "Download and install updates." Choose the option if your reckoner is continued to the net. If non, select "Not right at present." Click "Next" to keep.
Click on "Change what to go on" in the subsequent popup window.
Choose between: "Continue personal files, apps, and Windows settings," "Proceed personal files simply," and "Nix," co-ordinate to your storage needs.
Click "Side by side" to install Windows 10.

Your PC will now reboot with the saved settings.

Restoring applications later reinstalling Windows ten

One time you've reinstalled Windows x, it's fourth dimension to restore applications.

Begin past verifying your business relationship: Get to First > Settings > Accounts > Your account and click the "Verify" link to get the code required to add your PC back into the saved accounts list. Once verified, log in to your Microsoft business relationship.

To restore previously installed apps:

Go to "Start" > "All Apps" > "Store."
Click on user (your) photograph.
Select "My Library" on the left pane to access all previously installed apps.
Click the "Download" button next to the app(s) you wish to restore.

Final thoughts

Related Resources

Unified endpoint management solutions 2021-22

Analysing the UEM landscape

Gratuitous Download

Windows 10 reinstallation tin can have a while, depending on your internet connection and size of the files you choose to proceed. Plugging your device into a power source volition ensure a low battery doesn't interrupt the process.

In situations where your PC is unable to boot, a recovery drive that stores a copy of your Windows ten environment on a hardware source, such every bit a DVD or USB drive, can help restore your apps, programs and settings.

Recovery drives are also useful when y'all're unable to access the Windows desktop to reinstall or troubleshoot your device. Timely fill-in of data can as well show helpful in easing the reinstallation procedure.

Featured Resources

Secure hybrid deject for dummies

Accelerate transformation with hybrid cloud

Gratis Download