Decide whether reinstalling fits
A fresh installation can address software problems, but it does not repair physical hardware. First identify the failure and review less disruptive recovery options. Reinstalling also means restoring applications and settings, so choose it with a clear plan rather than treating it as the first response to every slowdown.
Back up what you actually use
- Documents, photos and local folders outside your usual library.
- Application projects, databases and exported settings where supported.
- Browser information and access to accounts needed after installation.
- License information, installation sources and drive-encryption recovery details stored securely.
Verify before changing the disk
Open a selection of backed-up files from the backup destination. Confirm that cloud files needed offline are actually available and that another device can access essential accounts. Read the chosen recovery option's explanation: keeping personal files is not the same as preserving installed applications or every configuration.
Restore in a controlled order
Use official installation media and the correct device documentation. After installation, update the system, obtain necessary manufacturer drivers and reinstall applications from their official sources. Restore files, test core tasks and keep the backup until the new setup is working reliably. If the disk's condition is uncertain, resolve that before installation.
For device-specific or current product instructions, see Microsoft: recovery options.
Need help with your own device?
Describe the problem with the model, symptoms and checks already tried. For related help, explore computer service or remote support.
