Revitalize Your Windows PC: How to Reinstall with Installation Media

If your Windows PC is showing signs of fatigue, acting sluggish, or plagued by persistent errors, it might be time for a revitalizing refresh. Microsoft offers a robust way to breathe new life into your operating system: reinstalling Windows using installation media. Whether you’re dealing with software corruption, hardware issues, or simply want to wipe the slate clean, this guide will walk you through the ins and outs of the process.

Understanding Installation Media​

Before diving in, let’s cover what installation media is. Think of it as your digital lifeboat—created typically on a USB drive or DVD, this media contains everything you need to install or reinstall Windows. It’s particularly useful if your PC refuses to boot correctly or if it needs a significant overhaul.

Why Use Installation Media?​

The installation media isn’t just a tool for drastic measures. There are two primary methods for using it:

1. In-Place Upgrade: This allows you to reinstall Windows without losing your personal files, applications, or settings. It’s a gentle nudge to your system, perfect when you’re facing nagging performance issues.
2. Clean Install: Here’s where things get serious. A clean installation will completely wipe everything on your PC—files, applications, and customizations—all gone. This is ideal if you're passing the device on or if a fresh setup is required due to serious issues.

Preparing for Reinstallation​

Before you set sail on the reinstall process, it’s crucial to prepare:

1. Check Disk Space​

Often, the sluggish performance of Windows can be attributed to low disk space. Freeing up space might solve your issues without the need for reinstallation. Microsoft provides detailed guidance on how to free up drive space.

2. Backup Your Data​

This is non-negotiable! Ensure that your personal files are safely backed up to an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or cloud location like OneDrive. You don’t want to lose irreplaceable photos of your cat or that novel you've been working on.

3. Confirm Windows Activation​

Windows must be activated after the reinstall. Typically, this happens automatically once you go online. Make sure your Microsoft account is linked to your digital license, especially if significant hardware changes have occurred.

The Reinstallation Process​

Let’s break down the reinstallation process into two main avenues: In-Place Upgrade and Clean Install.

In-Place Upgrade Steps​

1. Create Installation Media: First, ensure you have the installation media connected to your PC.
2. Launch Setup:
   • Open File Explorer and access the correct drive.
   • Locate and run setup.exe. Give it permission to make changes.
3. Select What to Keep:
   • Choose between keeping personal files and apps, personal files only, or nothing at all. Choose wisely!
4. Install: Click “Install” and sit back as your PC does the heavy lifting, which may involve several restarts.

Clean Install Steps​

For those brave enough to go for a clean slate, follow these steps:

1. Create Installation Media: If the PC is not functioning, you can create this on a working device.
2. Boot from Installation Media: Insert the USB or DVD into your nonfunctional PC and configure the boot order (consult your PC manufacturer’s instructions).
3. Windows Setup:
   • Once the installer fires up, choose your language settings.
   • Accept the license terms.
4. Select Installation Type:
   • When prompted, choose “Install Windows.”
   • Opt for no product key if you have the digital license linked to your Microsoft account.
5. Delete Partitions: Be careful here! Remove all partitions that aren't “Unallocated Space” on the primary disk. This will erase everything.
6. Proceed with Installation: Finally, select the unallocated space and click “Next” to initiate the installation process.

Once Windows is reinstalled, make sure to sign in with your Microsoft account to properly activate your copy of Windows.

Conclusion: A Fresh Start Awaits​

Reinstalling Windows can feel like a daunting task, but it can also be refreshing—a chance to reset your PC and streamline your digital life. Whether you’re opting for an in-place upgrade to salvage your current setup or going all out with a clean install, the installation media is your best friend in this endeavor. Just remember to backup your data, ensure activation, and check your disk space, and you’ll be sailing smoothly in no time.
So, which route will you take? A gentle touch-up or a full-on rebirth for your trusty device? Whichever it is, know that you have the tools to make it happen!

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Source: Microsoft Support Reinstall Windows with the installation media - Microsoft Support