Forum Discussion
Can I fresh windows 11 install without losing data
Yes. I just did that three days ago on my Windows 10 Pro laptop. All personal files and apps are still there after upgrade. However, you need to apply some tricks to do this. Here is the trick that worked for me:
https://www.uuwinfox.com/safe-way-to-install-win11-without-losing-data
How to fresh windows 11 install without losing data? If you want to do a more traditional clean install while keeping your files, you'll need to follow these steps:
1. Create Installation Media:
- Use the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive or DVD.
- Select Create installation media (USB flash drive) and follow the prompts.
2. Boot from Installation Media:
- Insert the USB or DVD into your PC and restart it.
- You may need to change the boot order in your BIOS/UEFI settings to boot from the USB or DVD drive.
3. Install Windows 11:
- When the Windows Setup screen appears, choose your language and preferences, then click Next and select Install Now.
- When prompted to enter the product key, you can skip this step if your device is already activated.
4. Select the Installation Type:
Choose Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
5. Select the Installation Drive:
Before you fresh windows 11 install without losing data. You will see a list of drives. Be very careful here:
- Select the drive/partition where your current Windows installation is located (usually "Drive 0").
- Do not format the drive; simply select it and click Next to install Windows 11.
- Installing this way will preserve your personal files as it will not delete existing files on the drive but will remove applications and system settings.
6. Complete Installation:
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
- After installation, check that your personal files are still accessible.
- Reinstall your applications as required.
Hi Ostarari -
I am not getting the "Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)" option. I have a check box where I have to agree that all files, apps, and settings will be lost.
My laptop crashed during a Windows update. I have tried everything. Twice, I got Windows to start, but it crashed.
I didn't get much help on the Microsoft Community forum. You can see my post here: https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_11-wintop_backup/windows-11-will-not-boot-after-a-crash-during-the/c7b3cfc2-d72f-4434-8900-977b19f87a87?page=3
They aren't listening or reading what your issue actually is. They keep saying to access Windows, but your not getting to that point. I'm having the same issue right now.
