In-place repair/upgrade of Windows 2022 server without losing file shares or permissions

Question

I am unable to perform Windows Updates or add/remove roles on a Windows 2022 server.

I have tried all the SFC/DISM, no luck and the scans say there are no corruption.

So now it's down to using a Windows 2022 ISO.

So the question is, to do an in-place ISO repair/upgrade (even though it's the same version), will the shares and permissions on all the folders/files remain in place?

I have looked online for this specific scenario, but cannot find anything that deals with retaining shares/permissions.

Thank you in advance

Answer 1

Hello,

Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community forum.

Based on the description, I understand your question is related to in place upgrade.

Technically, performing an in-place repair or upgrade of a Windows Server 2022 using an ISO should retain your file shares and permissions. As long as you choose the option "Keep personal files and apps" during in place upgrade.

An in-place upgrade allows you to upgrade to a same or newer version of Windows Server while keeping your settings, server roles, and data intact.

Note: For the sake of double security, it is recommended that you back up your important data first to prevent unknown issue during the upgrade.

Have a nice day. 

Best Regards,

Molly

Answer 2

Ok great, will do that this Saturday. I wasn't sure if the in-place repair overwrote the registry settings that hold the share information.

I will back it up the night before to be safe.

Thank you. Will let you know how it went next week.

Answer 3

Bingo! In-place repair worked like a charm. All files, permissions and shares were retained and I can now update Server 2022 and add/remove roles.

Thank you!

Answer 4

Glad to know that! You're welcome.

Answer 5

I tried doing an in-place upgrade to repair an update issue, but couldn't tick on Keep files, settings and apps.

The option was greyed out!