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
Windows 11 comes with a "Reset this PC" feature that allows you to perform a fresh installation while preserving your personal files. This method is for those who want a clean Windows 11 environment and don't want to lose important data. This method will fresh windows 11 install without losing data, but will remove all installed software and drivers.
Step 1: Turn on the "Reset this PC" feature by pressing Win + I to open "Settings". In the left menu, click "System" and scroll down on the right to find “Recovery”, then click on it. Under "Recovery Options", find "Reset this PC" and click “Reset PC” button.
Step 2: When you select the reset method, two options will pop up: "Keep my files".
Step 3: Select the reinstallation method You will see two options: Local reinstallation. Please reinstall using the Windows 11 files on your computer (recommended, faster).
Step 4: Confirm and start resetting Windows 11 A list of upcoming actions will be displayed, check to make sure they are correct and click "Reset".
The computer will automatically reboot and begin to fresh windows 11 install without losing data. The process may take 30-60 minutes. After the installation is complete, your files will remain, but all applications will need to be reinstalled.
Hi DakotaThunder -
I am not getting the "Reset this PC" 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