Windows 10 Reset versus Clean Install

Should I Reset or Perform a Clean Install of Windows 10?

"I've upgraded my laptop from Windows 7 to Windows 10, but it's not functioning as smoothly as before. Therefore, I'm considering getting a fresh system to improve its performance. Should I simply reset Windows 10 or perform a clean installation?"

If Windows 10 fails to function correctly due to system file corruption or malware issues, Microsoft provides two options to address the problem: resetting Windows 10 or performing a clean installation. At this point, many users might wonder whether a System Reset is equivalent to a clean install. In the following section, we will discuss the differences between these two methods.

Differences Between Windows 10 Reset and Clean Install

Most of the time, users won't notice any difference between a Windows 10 reset and a clean install. To help you better understand these two options, we've listed their key features below, allowing you to decide which one is best for your needs.

Windows 10 Reset - Reinstall Windows 10 by reverting to the factory default settings using the recovery image that was created when you initially installed Windows on your device. This method aids in resolving most common operating system issues and does not necessitate an internet connection. Moreover, it does not affect your personal files and data. However, occasionally, the reset process may fail and display an error message stating "there was a problem resetting your PC".

Clean Install - This involves reinstalling Windows 10 by downloading the latest Windows installation media from Microsoft and burning it onto a USB drive. It provides users with a fresh, unblemished system, free from any underlying issues or corruption. As the term suggests, a clean install erases all applications that are not part of the default Windows setup, including Microsoft Office and other Microsoft apps. It also eliminates most manufacturer-installed apps, like proprietary software, support utilities, and drivers specific to your PC's manufacturer.

In summary, Windows 10 Reset is more inclined to serve as a basic troubleshooting approach, whereas a Clean Install is an advanced solution for more intricate issues. If unsure which method to employ, initially attempt the Windows Reset. If that proves ineffective, ensure you backup all your computer data, and subsequently proceed with a Clean Install.

How to Perform a Windows 10 Reset

In this part, we will walk you through the detailed steps, as approved by Microsoft's official support, to perform a Windows Reset.

Step 1. Type "Settings" and click on the most relevant result to open the Windows Settings.

Step 2. Click on "Update & Security".

Click on "Update and Security".

Step 3. Locate and select "Recovery".

Step 4. There are two options. The first one, "Reset this PC," is used to refresh your computer when it's not functioning properly. Click "Get Started" to proceed.

Step 5. Windows will then give you two options; select the first one to remove all apps and settings but keep your personal files.

How to Perform a Clean Installation of Windows 10

If resetting Windows 10 doesn't resolve your issue, you might need to perform a clean installation. This process will remove all your applications, personal files, and data. Before proceeding with this method, we highly advise you to create a complete backup of your system first.

Back up files before Windows 10 clean install

Both Windows 10 reset and clean install will remove all your installed programs and their settings. To preserve your data and applications, download a backup software to create a backup image.

Step 1. Click "Select backup contents" to start a backup.

Step 2. There are four data backup categories: File, Disk, OS, and Mail. Click File.

Step 3. Local and network files will be displayed on the left panel. You can expand the directory to choose which files to back up.

Step 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose the location where you want to save the backup.

Click "Options" to encrypt the backup with a password under "Backup Options," and to set up a backup schedule and choose to initiate a backup at a specific event under "Backup Scheme." Numerous other customization options are available for the backup process.

Step 5. You can save the backup to a local disk, the tool's online service, or a NAS.

Step 6. Todo Backup allows users to back up data to a third-party cloud drive or its own cloud drive.

If you want to back up data to a third-party cloud drive, choose Local Drive, scroll down to add Cloud Device, add your account, and then log in.

You can also save backups to the tool's cloud storage service. Click on "Tools Cloud," sign up for a Tools Account, and then log in.

Step 7. Click "Backup Now" to initiate the backup process. When the backup is complete, it will appear as a card on the left panel. To manage the backup job further, right-click on it.

Steps to perform a clean installation: 1. Backup important data: Before starting any installation process, ensure that you have backed up all your crucial files, documents, and personal data to an external hard drive or cloud storage. 2. Disable antivirus software: Temporarily disable your antivirus program as it might interfere with the installation process. 3. Create installation media: Visit the official website of the operating system you want to install (e.g., Microsoft's Windows Update Assistant for Windows 10). Download and run the appropriate tool to create a bootable USB drive or DVD. 4. Boot from installation media: Insert the USB drive or DVD into your computer and restart it. Access the BIOS or UEFI settings by pressing the relevant key (usually F2, F10, F12, or Del) during startup. Set the boot order to prioritize USB or DVD drive. 5. Start the installation process: Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the installation. Choose the "Clean Install" or "Custom Install" option when prompted. 6. Select partitions: If prompted, delete existing partitions or create new ones for the fresh installation. Make sure you allocate enough space for the operating system and future updates. 7. Agree to terms and choose user settings: Accept the license agreement and customize your user account settings, such as username, password, and time zone. 8. Wait for installation: The installation process may take some time, depending on your computer's hardware. Be patient while it installs the necessary files and updates. 9. Post-installation setup: Once the installation is complete, your computer will reboot. Complete any remaining setup tasks, such as activating the operating system, installing updates, and configuring network settings. 10. Restore data and install software: After the clean installation, reconnect your backup drive and restore your important files. Then, reinstall applications and drivers that were previously on your computer. Remember to keep your operating system and software up to date with regular updates to maintain security and performance.

Step 1. Download the Refresh Windows Tool from Microsoft.

Step 2. Launch the tool. Review and accept the License Terms.

Step 3. Select the "Keep personal files only" option or choose "Nothing" if you wish to remove everything.

Step 4. Click the "OK" button to initiate the installation. The remainder of the process will proceed automatically, but if needed, you can delay it until your PC restarts.