Windows 10 Reinstallation fixes system issues, enhances performance, and eliminates malware. Many users worry that they will lose their personal files. Windows 10 has multiple ways for you to reinstall Windows 10 without losing your important documents and photos.
In this guide we will examine the top five ways to reinstall Windows 10 with no loss of files. We want you to have a safe and smooth experience.
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Why Reinstall Windows 10?
Windows 10 may be reinstalled for a variety of reasons.
- Slow Performance: You PC is sluggish because of software bloatware or outdated drivers.
- The system is unstable and prone to frequent errors.
- Viruses and Malware: Certain infections can only by removed through a reinstall of Windows.
- Windows Installation corrupted files: System failures can be caused by corruption of the Windows installation.
Follow the steps below to fix this issue without losing your personal data
Method 1 – Use the “Reset This PC option” (Keep your files)
Reset This PC, the easiest and fastest method to reinstall Windows 10 is without losing any files.
Windows 10: Reset Windows 10 without losing your files
- 1 Open Settings – Press Win+I and select Update & Security.
- Click on the recovery icon from the left pane.
- 3 Click Reset PC under Get started.
- Select the option to Keep my Files when prompted.
- Follow the onscreen instructions to complete your reset.
Pros:
- Quick and easy
- Keeps personal files intact
- Remove apps or settings that are causing you problems
Cons:
- Remove some installed applications
Use the Media Creation Tool to perform an in-place upgrade
Windows 10 can be reinstalled without deleting any files or applications. This is the best method for fixing system errors.
How to perform an in-place upgrade:
- Download the Media Creation tool from Microsoft’s website.
- Select Upgrade This PC Now in the tool.
- Follow the instructions on screen.
- When prompted, select Keep personal files and applications.
- Install the software.
Pros:
- Keeps files, apps and settings
- Fixes system corruption
Cons:
- Resetting takes longer
Method 3 – Reinstall Windows 10 with Installation Media Without Formatting
You can reinstall Windows 10 using a USB drive or DVD without having to erase any files.
The steps to reinstall without losing your files are:
- Windows 10 USB/DVD Inserted into PC
- Then, restart your computer.
- 3 When prompted, select Install Now.
- Upgrade Windows: Keep files, settings, applications, and other data.
- Follow the instructions in order to complete this process.
Pros:
- Keeps files, settings and preferences
- Repair boot problems using this product
Cons:
- Installation media is required
Method 4: Repair Windows 10 using Advanced Startup Options
Advanced Startup Options can be used to fix your system if it isn’t starting properly.
How to access Advanced Startup and Repair Windows 10
- Press F8 (or Shift +F8) during the boot process. On some PCs you may have to manually enter Advanced Startup.
- Select Startup Repair from the Troubleshooting menu.
- Choose System Restore if necessary to restore Windows to an earlier state.
Pros:
- Fixes boot-up and startup issues
- Keeps files intact
Cons:
- If system restore points are not present, the program will not work.
Method 5: Reinstall Windows 10 without losing files using Command Prompt
Windows 10 can also be reinstalled by advanced users using the Command Prompt.
How to Reinstall Windows 10 using CMD
- Press Shift and click Restart to boot into Windows Recovery Mode.
- Choose Troubleshoot, Advanced Options > Command Prompt.
- Type the following command, and then press Enter.
setup.exe /auto upgrade /noreboot
Follow on-screen instructions to complete installation.
Pros:
- Useful when normal boot fails
- Keeps files and settings
Cons:
- Requires technical knowledge
Backup all your data before you reinstall
While these methods ensure that your files are safe, it’s a great idea to always back up important data before you make any Windows changes.
How to Backup Your Files before Reinstalling Windows 10
- You can access the file history by clicking on Settings > Update & security > Backup.
- Manually copy your files to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Windows comes with a built in tool to create system images.
Final Thoughts
Windows 10 Reinstallation does not mean that you will lose all your personal data. You can use the five methods above to fix problems with Windows 10, improve performance and eliminate malware without losing your personal files.
Reset This PC is recommended if you need a quick fix. A deeper repair is best done with an in-place update or installation medium.
These steps can help you ensure that Windows 10 will reinstall smoothly and safely without losing your files.