How to Reset & Reinstall Windows Without Losing Files

20 February، 2025

0 151 4 minutes read

Resetting or reinstalling Windows can be a necessary step when your computer is experiencing performance issues, software glitches, or malware infections. However, many users hesitate to take this step because they fear losing their personal files, such as documents, photos, and videos. Fortunately, Windows provides built-in tools that allow you to reset or reinstall the operating system without deleting your files . In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your data remains safe while giving your PC a fresh start.

Why Reset or Reinstall Windows?

Before diving into the “how,” let’s explore why resetting or reinstalling Windows might be necessary:

Performance Issues : Over time, your system may slow down due to accumulated junk files, bloated software, or outdated drivers.
Malware Infections : Some viruses or ransomware are difficult to remove completely without a clean installation.
System Errors : Frequent crashes, blue screens, or unresponsive applications may indicate deeper issues that require a reset.
Software Conflicts : Corrupted programs or incompatible updates can disrupt your workflow.
Fresh Start : If you’ve owned your PC for years, a reset can declutter your system and restore it to its original state.

The good news is that Windows offers two main options for resetting: keeping your files or removing everything . We’ll focus on the former—resetting Windows without losing your files .

Option 1: Using the Built-In Reset Feature

Windows includes a “Reset This PC” feature that allows you to reinstall the operating system while preserving your personal files. Here’s how to use it:

Step 1: Access the Reset Option

Open the Start Menu and go to Settings (gear icon).
Navigate to System > Recovery .
Under the “Reset this PC” section, click Reset PC .

Step 2: Choose the “Keep My Files” Option

You’ll see two options:
- Keep my files : Reinstalls Windows but keeps your personal files intact.
- Remove everything : Deletes all files, apps, and settings for a clean slate.
Select Keep my files .

Step 3: Decide Between Cloud Download or Local Reinstall

Windows will ask whether you want to download the latest version of Windows from the cloud or use local files already on your PC.
- Cloud download : Downloads a fresh copy of Windows (recommended if your current installation is corrupted).
- Local reinstall : Uses existing Windows files on your PC (faster but less thorough).
Choose the option that suits your needs and click Next .

Step 4: Confirm and Begin the Reset Process

Review the list of apps that will be removed during the reset. Note that third-party applications will be uninstalled, but Windows Store apps may remain.
Click Reset to begin the process.
Your PC will restart multiple times as Windows reinstalls itself. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on your system’s speed.

Step 5: Restore Your Settings and Apps

Once the reset is complete, log in to your account.
Your personal files (e.g., documents, photos, music) should still be in their original locations.
Reinstall any third-party apps you need and adjust your settings as desired.

Option 2: Performing a Repair Install (In-Place Upgrade)

If you want even more control over the reinstallation process, you can perform an in-place upgrade using a Windows installation media. This method reinstalls Windows without affecting your files, apps, or settings.

Step 1: Create a Windows Installation Media

Download the official Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
Run the tool and select Create installation media for another PC .
Follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive or ISO file.

Step 2: Run the Installation Tool

Insert the USB drive or mount the ISO file.
Launch the setup file (setup.exe) from the installation media.
When prompted, choose Upgrade this PC now .

Step 3: Keep Your Files and Settings

During the installation process, you’ll be asked what to keep:
- Keep personal files and apps
- Keep personal files only
- Nothing (clean install)
Select Keep personal files and apps .

Step 4: Complete the Installation

The tool will download and install the necessary files. Your PC will reboot several times during this process.
After completion, your files, apps, and settings will remain intact, but Windows will be refreshed.

Precautions Before Resetting or Reinstalling

Even though the methods above are designed to preserve your files, it’s always wise to take precautions before proceeding:

1. Back Up Your Data

Use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or a backup tool to create a copy of your important files.
Pay special attention to irreplaceable items like family photos, work documents, and financial records.

2. Check Disk Space

Ensure your system drive (usually C:) has enough free space for the reset or reinstallation process. At least 20GB is recommended.

3. Note Installed Applications

Make a list of all installed programs so you can easily reinstall them afterward.

4. Save Product Keys

If you have paid software, save their product keys or activation details to avoid losing access.

What Happens to Your Files During a Reset?

When you choose the “Keep my files” option, here’s what happens to different types of data:

Personal Files : Documents, photos, videos, music, and other user-generated content remain untouched.
Apps : Third-party applications are uninstalled, but some pre-installed apps (like Microsoft Edge or Mail) may stay.
Settings : Certain customizations (e.g., desktop wallpaper, browser preferences) may revert to default values.
System Files : Corrupted or problematic system files are replaced with fresh copies.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Reset Fails to Complete

If the reset process gets stuck or fails, try using the in-place upgrade method instead.
Alternatively, boot into Safe Mode and run the reset again.

2. Files Are Missing After Reset

Check the Windows.old folder on your system drive. This temporary folder contains old files and settings from before the reset.
Use File Explorer to search for missing files within this folder.