How to Reinstall Windows 10 or 11 Without Losing Files
Is your Windows computer takingforever to boot up, heating up excessively, or perhaps infected with malware? One might consider reinstalling Windows as the best solution. However, a common concern is the possibility of accidentally erasing all your personal and important files. This guide will show you the correct settings to reinstall Windows without losing your files.
Table of Contents
Things to Keep in Mind
Reinstalling Windows while retaining your files isn’t as easy as it sounds. Pay attention to the process and keep these points in mind:
Tip:Here’s how toback up Windows 11 to the cloud before you reinstallthe operating system.
Reinstall Windows 10 or 11 Using the Built-In Method
Reinstalling Windows 10 or 11 is a simple process, and you may do it without the risk of losing your files. Follow these steps to use the built-in method:
1.On a Windows 10 PC, go toSettings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Whereas, on Windows 11, navigate toSettings > System > Recovery.
2.Under the Reset this PC section, click onGet started(Windows 10) orReset this PC(Windows 11) to initiate the process.
Note:From this point onwards, the steps will remain the same for Windows 10 and 11 OS.
3.Select theKeep my filesoption.
4.Choose either theCloud downloadorLocal reinstalloption:
5.On the following screen, hit theNextbutton.
6.Then, hit theResetbutton to begin the reinstallation process.
Reinstall Windows 10 or 11 Using Windows Recovery Environment
If you cannot reset Windows using the standard method, use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). The way to do this is a bit different in Windows 10 compared to Windows 11, but the overall process is pretty much the same. Here’s how it works:
1.Navigate toSettings > System > Recovery. Under the Recovery options, click theRestart nowbutton next to Advanced startup.
2.Confirm your decision by clicking theRestart nowbutton again.
3.When your computer restarts, select theTroubleshootoption from the available options.
4.SelectReset this PCfollowed by theKeep my filesoption.
5.Select eitherCloud downloadorLocal reinstall.
6.Finally, initiate the Windows reinstallation process by clicking theResetbutton.
How to Activate Windows 10 or 11 After Reinstalling
If you couldn’t activate Windows during the setup, you can try this method to manually enter the product key and activate Windows on your laptop or PC.
1.On Windows 10, head over toSettings > Update & Security > Activationand clickChange product key.
Whereas, on Windows 11, navigate toSettings > System > Activationand then hit theChangebutton next to Change product key.
2.After that, enter theProduct Keyand hitNext.
3.Finally, clickActivate.
That’s it! Once the activation is successful, you will receive the “Windows has been activated” message.
- Can I reinstall Windows 10 or 11 without a product key (legally)?
Yes, if Windows 10 or 11 came pre-installed on your laptop or PC, or if you upgraded for free from a genuine Windows 7 or 8 version, your Windows will automatically get activated upon reinstallation. The Windows license information is linked to the hardware through a digital license of your Microsoft account. However, if you have a retail license, it may ask you to enter the product key. So keep it safe.
- How long does it take to reinstall Windows 10 or 11?
Reinstalling Windows 10 or 11 can take between 20 minutes to 3 hours, depending on several factors, such as CPU performance, available RAM, SSD speed, and internet connectivity.
Rahul is your go-to guide for fixing Windows, Steam, Android, Samsung TV, and Google Chrome. An engineering college dropout who followed his passion for tech, he brings 3 years of troubleshooting experience and 2+ years of running his own tech blog to the table. When he’s not solving your tech problems, you’ll find him unwinding with the latest anime or K-drama.
