How to Reinstall Windows Without Losing Your Data
Posted by: Newsfactory on: 09/01/2003 10:22 AM [ Print | 2 comment(s) ] · 8842 views
PCworld have posted a new guide that should come in very handy? when you have to reinstall windows.
Over time, Windows loses stability. If you keep a computer for more than two years, at some point you're going to have to bite the bullet and reinstall Windows from scratch. But contrary to popular belief, you won't have to reformat your hard drive (with one exception, discussed below). The bad stuff you need to get rid of is all in your Windows folder.
Before you begin, gather your Windows and application CD-ROMs. Back up your data files (just to be safe), and then clear two days off your calendar. If everything goes smoothly, you can reinstall Windows in a few hours. But you have to assume something will go wrong: You may not be able to find a necessary CD, or data won't be where you thought it was, or something will simply refuse to work.
There's a difference between a repair reinstall and a complete reinstall. Though a repair (also called a refresh) will let you keep your current settings, a complete reinstall will give you a truly fresh version of Windows. Repairs are fast and easy, but they don't fix anywhere near as many problems. The instructions below are for total reinstalls, except where noted.
How to Reinstall Windows Without Losing Your Data
Over time, Windows loses stability. If you keep a computer for more than two years, at some point you're going to have to bite the bullet and reinstall Windows from scratch. But contrary to popular belief, you won't have to reformat your hard drive (with one exception, discussed below). The bad stuff you need to get rid of is all in your Windows folder.
Before you begin, gather your Windows and application CD-ROMs. Back up your data files (just to be safe), and then clear two days off your calendar. If everything goes smoothly, you can reinstall Windows in a few hours. But you have to assume something will go wrong: You may not be able to find a necessary CD, or data won't be where you thought it was, or something will simply refuse to work.
There's a difference between a repair reinstall and a complete reinstall. Though a repair (also called a refresh) will let you keep your current settings, a complete reinstall will give you a truly fresh version of Windows. Repairs are fast and easy, but they don't fix anywhere near as many problems. The instructions below are for total reinstalls, except where noted.
How to Reinstall Windows Without Losing Your Data
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Comment
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intellimoo Unregistered |
#46833 Posted on: 09/01/2003 07:03 PM
LOL The even easier way is just have 2 HD's in your system. That way to can keep or easily copy whatever data on the 2nd drive, and do a nice full reformat of the Windows drive when it comes time to reinstall Windows. Even though you have to reinstall all the programs you normally use, it does give you the chance to leave off all the stuff you really haven't been using anymore. The whole deal should take less time than the above article suggests too. |
Comment
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potter Unregistered |
#46835 Posted on: 09/01/2003 08:33 PM
This article is pointless. I dont think people that are visiting wrp2chearch are using "recovery" CDs from their computers maker. I think this article belongs over at techtv's call for help. |
