Part 1: QUICK & NOVICE STEPS
How to reinstall Windows without losing files
Open settings
- Press Windows + I to open settings.
- Click System.
Go to Recovery
- Scroll down and click “ Recovery “.
- Under Recovery options, click “ Reset PC “.
Choose “Keep my files”
Select “ Keep my files “. This will keep your personal files, but remove apps and settings.
Choose how to Reinstall
- Cloud download is best for a fresh, clean reinstall.
- Local reinstall is faster and uses files already on your PC.
Review Settings
- Click “ Change settings ” if needed.
- Then click “ Next “.
Start Reinstall
Click “ Reset ” to begin. Your PC will restart and begin the reinstall process.
Part 2: ADVANCED & INTERMEDIATE OPTIONS
Alternative methods and additional options for more control or specific situations.
In-Place upgrade using ISO
This method reinstalls Windows over your current installation.
- Download the Windows 11 ISO.
- Right-Click the ISO file and select “Mount”.
- Open the mounted drive and run setup.exe.
- Choose “Change how setup downloads updates”.
- Select “Not right now”.
- Choose to “Keep personal files and apps”.
- Follow the on-screen steps.
Reset this PC (Keep my files)
A built-in Windows feature for a fresh reinstall.
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
- Click “Keep my files”.
- Choose cloud download.
- Click “Reset”.
Windows will reinstall while keeping your files
Upgrade instead of clean install
Install Windows using a USB without deleting your files.
- Create a Windows 11 bootable USB.
- Boot from the USB.
- At setup screen, Click “Next”
- Click “Change how setup downloads updates”.
- Choose “Not right now”.
- Choose “Keep personal files and apps”.
- Complete the installation.
Repair Windows using DISM & SFC
Fix system issues before reinstalling.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Run these commands one by one:
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth
- SFC /ScanNow
