1 Rookie

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2 Posts

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7 Points

90

June 24th, 2026 21:58

Repairing Windows

I have gotten something corrupted and need to repair windows.  To do that is there an way that will not erase all of my exisitng programs and data?  If it does a "reinstall", "restore" or whatever is it going to zap my d: data drive too?

11 Legend

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15.9K Posts

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81.7K Points

June 24th, 2026 22:26

Refresh your copy of Windows 10 without losing your data

Windows 10 can reset all its computer files without affecting your personal data. Refresh does the following:

  • Reinstalls Windows 10 and keeps your personal files.
  • Removes apps and drivers that you installed
  • Removes changes that you made to settings
  • Removes any apps your personal computer manufacturer installed (If your personal computer comes with Windows 10, apps from your personal computer manufacturer are reinstalled.)

To get started with a refresh of your computer files, follow these steps:

  1. Click Start Windows Key, then type "reset."

  2. Select Reset this personal computer (System Setting).

  3. Under Reset this personal computer, select Get Started.

  4. Select the option to Keep my files.

  5. Note any apps or drivers that must be reinstalled after the refresh is completed.

  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the refresh process. This takes some time, and your computer restarts.

11 Legend

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15.9K Posts

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81.7K Points

June 24th, 2026 22:27

data is not lost but apps need to be reinstalled after refresh

11 Legend

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8.4K Posts

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46.4K Points

June 25th, 2026 02:25

Re:  is it going to zap my d: data drive too?

While the concern is valid, any important data should be backup externally.

5 Journeyman

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1.7K Posts

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6.6K Points

June 25th, 2026 12:21

Hi

https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/id-Installation_Upgrade/

Read, and re-assure yourself, about an "In-Place" install, I call it an over the top, but it leaves stuff there.  It may get moved to a Windows Old folder, but it is there.

1 Rookie

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2 Posts

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7 Points

June 25th, 2026 20:26

I got it done, minimal damage, just a real nuisance to reinstall all the stuff I use and do the customizing..... but it solved the problem and what was broken is working again.

Thanks!

1 Rookie

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4 Posts

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12 Points

June 27th, 2026 10:20

If the repair option doesn't solve it, I'd also check the drive's health before spending too much time troubleshooting Windows itself. A failing SSD or HDD can cause repair attempts to keep failing. It's worth backing up anything important first, just in case.

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