My Windows 7 PC runs into some problem, and I want to refresh it but I have no idea on how to do it. Can someone show me how to refresh my Windows 7 without losing data? Thank you!

Options to try before refreshing Windows 7

Before learning how to refresh Windows 7 without losing data, you can try some other options to repair your PC when your computer has problems.

  • Last Known Good Configuration

You can boot into Safe Mode and select Last Known Good Configuration. It often solves booting and stability problems after installing or updating software, drivers, or messing with Registry entries.

  • System File Checker

If Windows is able to boot, use System File Checker to repair corrupted system files. You can type sfc /scannow in the command prompt to check and repair corrupted files.

  • Startup Repair

Startup Repair usually can repair problems that are preventing Windows from starting. You can repair Windows 7 installation by running Startup Repair. At the Advanced Boot Options menu, select Repair your computer. Then select Startup Repair at system recovery options.

  • System Restore

System Restore can restore your system to earlier date when your computer was running normally. By default, System Restore in Windows 7 is turned on. You can boot into Advanced Boot Option, select System Restore and restore from one restore point.

Repair your computer is useful for fixing startup problems and file system errors, and testing memory modules for defects. If none of these methods works, then you should try to refresh Windows 7.

How to refresh Windows 7 without losing data?

Unlike Windows 8 and Windows 10, there is no option “Refresh your PC” or “Reset this PC” in Windows 7 for you to click. But, you can still have a repair install from boot for Windows 7. If you are still able to get to your desktop, there is another more thorough way to refresh Windows 7, which is to perform a nondestructive reinstall of Windows 7.

Nondestructive reinstall of Windows will restore all your system files to pristine condition without damaging any of your personal data or installed programs. In order to perform a nondestructive reinstall of Windows 7, you will need a Windows 7 installation DVD. If you do not have one, you can download the latest Windows 7 installation ISO file.

Note: This non-destructive reinstall of Windows 7 might cause compatibility issues with some of your installed programs, so it is recommended to backup the whole disk before trying.

Let’s see how to refresh Windows 7 all versions including ultimate, premium, etc in detail:

Step 1. Boot your computer, and then insert the installation DVD or USB disk.

Step 2. If AutoPlay Windows pop-up, select Run Setup.exe. Or open DVD drive in Windows File Explorer, locate the Setup.exe file and double click it.

Step 3. Here you come to Windows 7 install page. Click Install now.

Step 4. In the next dialog “Get important updates for installation”, click Go online to get the latest updates for installation.

Step 5. In the window “Which type of installation do you want?”, click Upgrade.

Step 6. If Product Key is needed, enter it and click Next.

Step 7. At next Window, click Use recommended settings.

Step 8. Confirm your time and date settings, select your Windows current location and wait for the install finished.