reinstall win 11

Question

currently win 11 education insiders preview build 26040 rs prerealse 240122-1157 is the computer is check to stop receiving builds i have signed out of windows insider is there a way to reinstall win 11 from usb installation with out losing all data files programs and apps

Answer 1

Hi Robert,

I'm Hruthik, a student from Microsoft. Re-installing Windows 11 from USB without losing data is quite inevitable. USB installation is designed to Install in such a way that it moves your old data to a folder called "windows.old" or deletes them. Depending upon the option you choose when it prompts.

But there is a way to reinstall Windows 11 while having all the data files and programs.

Open your Windows Settings and Open Windows Update tab.

Click on Advanced Options

Click on Recovery

Click on Reinstall now

As you can see, it is mentioned that your apps, files, and settings will be preserved.

Then follow the instructions of the Windows and go through the steps to reinstall it successfully.

If you have any queries, feel free to ask.

Thank You,

Hruthik

Answer 2

Hi Robert,

Thanks for your post. Based on my research, using a bootable USB or DVD is for performing  a clean install. Refer steps: Download Windows 11 (microsoft.com)

If you would like to keep files and settings for the upgrade, you can download and run the PC Health Check app. Or, after the upgrade rollout begins, you can check if it's available for your device by going to Settings   > Update & Security  > Check for updates.

Reference: Windows 11 Specs and System Requirements | Microsoft

Best Regards,

Ian Xue

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