As a computer user, you may have issues with your Windows 10 and may wish to reinstall your operating system without losing important data. You may have tried traditional methods and you ended up losing data.
Now, how can you reinstall Windows 10 without data loss? Worry no more because this article will help you reinstall Window 10 without losing files and apps
Types of Reinstalls for Windows 10
Windows 10 provides you with three main types of reinstall for Windows 10. Below is a chart that extensively helps you understand how each type of reinstall works.
Reinstall type | Reinstall options to go for | Impact of the options on apps | Impact on personal data stored under /user | Impact on data stored in other folders or drives | Disk space required |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Reset Windows 10 | Keep files | Apps not original to the PC are deleted | Personal data kept intact | Kept intact | Medium |
Reset Windows 10 | Remove everything | Apps not original to the PC are deleted | Deleted | Deleted | Low |
Reinstall Windows 10 using installation media | Keep all files | Apps and settings are kept intact | Preserved | Preserved | High |
Reinstall Windows 10 using installation media | Keep personal data | Apps deleted | Preserved | Preserved | Medium |
Reinstall Windows 10 using installation media | Keep nothing | All apps removed | Deleted | Deleted | Low |
Clean install of Windows 10 using installation media | This reinstall option deletes and recreates all disk partitions | Removed | Removed | Removed | Very low. |
Preparation Before Reinstall Windows 10 Without Losing Files and Apps
Before reinstalling Windows 10 without data loss, it's essential to make thorough preparations to ensure a smooth process and safeguard your personal files and settings. Here's a checklist of things to do before proceeding:
Backup your primary files:
The first thing you should do before you reinstall Windows to keep data is to back up your primary files to an external storage. This will include irreplaceable files such as photos, videos, and music.
List installed programs:
You can use in-built tools such as PowerShell in Windows or third-party tools like CCleaner to generate a list. This list will help you reinstall your essential programs later.
Gather product keys:
Ensure you have product keys for software like Windows and Microsoft Office if required. These keys may be necessary for activation after the reinstallation.
Create an installation media:
You can download and install an installation media with your Microsoft office tool. This will allow you to reinstall Windows easily. Make sure you have a legitimate product key for activation.
Deauthorize iTunes:
If you use iTunes and have purchased content from it, remember to deauthorize iTunes on your PC to avoid issues with DRM limitations.
By completing these preparations, you'll be well-equipped to reinstall Windows 10 without losing your valuable data and settings.
3 Easiest Methods to Reinstall Windows 10 Without Losing Data. Learn how to reinstall Windows 10 without losing data from USB.
Method 1: Using the ‘Reset PC’ Option
Follow these steps to reinstall Windows 10 using this option.
Step 1: Click on the Windows button and choose the Settings option.
Step 2: In the settings page, choose ‘System’ then move down to choose ‘Recovery’ option.
Step 3: Click on reset option as shown.
Step 4: Go for the option; ‘Keep my files.’
Step 5: Select; ‘Local reinstall.’
Step 6: Check below and click on ‘Next’
Step 7: Click on ‘Reset’
Reminder
‘Reset this PC’ is the easiest and fastest way to reinstall Windows 10. However, be sure to save your apps, drivers, and programs on a backup software. Only user files are retained by this option.
Method 2: Applying the Windows Recovery environment(WinRE)
This is how you go about reinstalling your Windows 10 keeping data through WinRE
Step 1: On your keyboard press Window+ L
Step 2: On the power button option, press shift and click Restart ((Be sure to left-click ‘Restart while Pressing Shift).
Step 3: The page below appears. Be sure to click on ‘Troubleshoot’.
Step 4: Click on ‘Reset this PC.’
Step 5: Choose on ‘Keep my files’
Step 6: Choose on ‘Local reinstall’
Step 7: Click ‘Reset’
Step 8: You can now follow the other obvious steps to install your windows.
Reminder
Like the first method, you need a backup software to keep your apps and programs intact using the reinstallation.
Method 3: Using USB or DVD.
This method allows you to install your windows using an installation media. In this case, you need a USB or DVD, a copy of the Windows you wish to install, and a program known as Rufus.
Below is a step-by-step description of how to do the reinstallation using USB or DVD.
Step 1: Install and open the Rufus program in your PC
Step 2: Link your USB to your PC, choose it from the Device dropdown list. Next, click the "Select" option and choose the Windows image file. Once you're prepared, click the "Start" button to begin.
Step 3: Click on ‘OK’ and click on ‘OK’ again if requested to confirm.
Step 4: Now link your USB to the target pc
Step 5: Access your BIOS and adjust the boot order to prioritize booting from the USB drive.
Step 6: Next is an option to choose the language, currency, and time. Then click Next.
Step 7: Click on Install Now
Step 8: Enter the product key or click down below; ‘ I don’t have a product ‘key’
Step 9: Select a preferred Windows version and then press Next.
Step 10: Accept the terms and conditions and then press ‘next’
Step 11: Press on the Upgrade option to avoid losing files and apps.
Step 12: Follow the rest of the instructions.
Remainder
On step 5, Keep in mind that the specific steps may vary depending on your motherboard's make and model, so it's advisable to consult the manufacturer's website for comprehensive instructions.
Choose New Office Software after Resetting - WPS Office
WPS Office offers essential office tools like Writer (equivalent to Microsoft Word), Spreadsheet (similar to Excel), Presentation (comparable to PowerPoint), and a PDF editor. Some of the advantages of this software include;
Free download and free to use
Its tools can be used for free with no insufficiencies caused by ads or registration.
Rich template store
Rich functions
Lightweight
Support online documents
Safe and stable
It's a cost-effective solution for Windows and Mac users, ensuring compatibility with Microsoft Office files.
How to free download the WPS Office?
Follow these steps below to download WPS Office for free.
Step 1: Choose any browser to access the official site for WPS Office.
Step 2: Click on ‘Get store app’
Step 3: The POP-UP Box opens and this allows you to click on ‘Open Microsoft store’.
Step 4: Click on ‘Get’ to download the software.
Step 5: Downloading starts immediately
Step 6: Press on ‘Open’ to open the software.
Step 7: Press on ‘Agree and continue’ to access the software interface.
Step 8: Now you can use the software for documents, spreadsheet, PowerPoint, and more.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between refreshing and resetting Windows 10?
The distinction between refreshing and resetting Windows 10 lies in file and program preservation. Refreshing retains personal files but removes non-default programs, suitable for fixing OS issues. Resetting, on the other hand, restores Windows 10 OS to its original state, erasing both installed programs and personal files, akin to a clean system reinstallation.
2. What are the disadvantages of resetting a PC?
The disadvantages of resetting a PC include:
Data Loss: Factory resets erase all files and apps on the device, including contacts, messages, photos, videos, and sensitive information. Proper data backup is crucial.
Time-Consuming: The process can be time-consuming as it requires reinstalling apps and reconfiguring settings.
3. Will my installed applications be preserved during a Windows 10 reinstallation?
When you choose "Keep my files" during the reinstallation, your personal files are retained and installed apps will be removed. You'll need to reinstall them after Windows is reinstalled.
Summary
In a nutshell, you are now familiar with 3 easy and effective ways you can reinstall Windows 10 without losing Data. You can apply the ‘reset with PC’, ‘using the advanced WinRE, and using USB or DVD. Also, consider using WPS office as an alternative to Microsoft Office. It is cheap and sufficient regardless of the Windows Version you are using.
