How to Reformat a Drive Without Losing Data on a Windows PC

The Windows operating system is usually stable enough for average users, but there are times when problems develop after a while. Slowness, malfunctioning apps, and many more issues may only be fixed after a factory reset. However, the standard procedure wipes the whole PC clean.

Fortunately, there is at least one way to reset your Windows computer and keep all user data, referring to items like My Documents, My Music, My Favorites, etc. Any data you store in custom folders cannot be saved, so back them up first. Between Windows 10 and 11, the steps may differ slightly, too. Read on for the details.

How To Format Without Losing Data in Windows 10

Even though Windows 10 isn’t the latest OS from Microsoft, many people haven’t switched to Windows 11 because of stability issues. Nevertheless, at least for now, Microsoft still offers regular updates for Windows 10.

Two main ways exist to reset Windows and keep your user pictures, videos, and other files. The first one is the standard method. As for the other one, you’ll need to use Windows Recovery Environment. There’s a little-known third option, but you’ll need tech knowledge to execute it properly.

Sadly, you’ll have to reinstall your non-Windows apps separately, and data saved in non-user/custom folders will not save either. However, your user documents (C:\Users\…) and other important files remain intact.

Here are two ways to format without losing your user data.

Option 1: Use ‘Reset This PC’

The “Reset this PC” option is much easier because you only have to follow on-screen instructions. Here’s how it goes.

1. Type “reset” in the Windows/Cortana search bar and click “Reset this PC” or “Open” from the results that appear.
   
2. Once the window appears, click on “Get Started.”
   
3. In the green window, select “Keep My Files.”
   
4. Choose “Local reinstall.” It’s the best option for most because cloud downloads are for systems that don’t work with local files.
   
5. Once you pick a reinstall mode, click on “Change settings.”
   
6. Toggle “Restore preinstalled apps?” to the “Yes” option.
   
7. Touch nothing else and click on “Confirm.”
   
8. Make sure everything is correct, then click “Next.”
   
9. Select “View apps that will be removed.”
10. Ensure you’re okay with these apps being deleted.
    
11. Head back to the previous screen and pick “Reset.”
    

Now, just wait for the computer to finish reinstalling Windows.

Note: Please ensure the AC adapter is plugged into the computer throughout the process. No matter what happens, don’t force the computer to shut down. You will only cause additional problems this way.

Option 2: Use Windows Recovery Environment

Windows Recovery Environment, or WinRE, is a mode that lets users repair common issues. There are ways to enter this mode manually, but below are situations when WinRE kicks in automatically.

• Windows failed to start twice.
• Your Windows PC boots and shuts down within two minutes twice.
• After two minutes post-boot completion, your computer reboots twice consecutively.
• Aside from “Bootmgr.efi” issues, you receive a Secure Boot error.
• Touch-only devices may experience BitLocker errors that also force WinRE to start.

You have two options to access the Windows Recovery Environment: within the OS or during bios bootup.

Here’s how to enter WinRE by using Advanced Startup Options.

1. Search for “changed advanced” in the Windows/Cortana search bar, then select “Change advanced startup options” from the results, or choose “Open” if it appears.
   
2. Select “Restart now” within the “Advanced startup” section.
   

The computer will restart and enter WinRE.

The second way is to use a hotkey during bootup. Fast Boot in the BIOS should be disabled. Your boot options and process may vary because BIOS menus have many configurations and styles.

The hotkey for entering WinRE is usually F9, but some models use F12. After your device beeps and turns on the monitor, hold or repeatedly tap the hotkey until the system responds to the action. Try F12 if F9 doesn’t bring up WinRE.

Once you’re in the Windows Recovery Environment, follow the instructions below.

1. Click on “Troubleshoot.”
   
2. Pick “Reset This PC.”
   
3. Click on “Keep My Files.” Note that this option refers to user files only (My Documents, My Music, etc.), not installed apps or custom folder data.
   
4. Choose your account from the list if there is more than one, enter the account’s password if prompted, click “Continue,” then select “Local Reinstall” or “Cloud Download.”
   
5. Click on “Reset” to begin the reinstallation process.
   

Let your computer stay plugged in and idle during this time.

On Windows 10, the process is straightforward. Simply follow the instructions, and your copy of Windows should be restored to perfect functionality.

The only challenge is navigating the BIOS if you wish to use WinRE. Fortunately, the first method of resetting Windows doesn’t require it. BIOS is best reserved for users with some extra knowledge.

Even so, you may be able to look for guides referencing your computer’s BIOS menu. Some manufacturers have it uploaded for all to see.

Option 3: Use an ISO File

A third option to format without losing user data is to create a Windows 10 ISO file using the Media Creation Tool. You’ll need a valid Windows 10 license to use it. However, it will be a crucial part of resetting Windows 10.

1. Download and launch the “Media Creation Tool.”
   
2. Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO) for another PC.”
   
3. Click “Next” in the bottom right corner.
   
4. Use the prepopulated options or uncheck “Use the recommended…” and select the Windows 10 architecture, language, and version you want. Click “Next” when finished.
   
5. Select “ISO File” as your media option and click “Next” to proceed and finish the task.
   
6. After downloading the ISO successfully, browse and right-click on the file.
   
7. Choose “Mount” from the options.
   
8. Go to the root directory and double-click the file named “Setup.exe.”
   
9. Choose a way to install updates, either from the cloud or locally.
10. Click on “Change What To Keep.”
    
11. Select “Keep personal files and apps” or “Keep personal files only.”
    
12. Confirm your choice and Select “Install.”
    

Now, the installation will complete, and you’ll still have your user data (C:\Users\…).

Using an ISO file is more challenging for people without tech know-how. Fortunately, these instructions will help anyone perform the steps without much trouble.

How To Reformat Without Losing Data in Windows 11

Windows 11 isn’t an operating system people struggle to navigate. Many controls are the same as on Windows 10, so there’s always some familiarity. There are also several ways to reset Windows 11 without losing data. Just like Windows 10, only your user data gets saved, such as “My Documents,” “My Music, “Favorites,” etc. Any non-included apps you installed will get deleted, and any data in custom/non-user folders will also be removed.

Here are three options to reset Windows 11 without losing user data.

Option 1: Use ‘Reset This PC’

Resetting your PC is incredibly similar to doing so on Windows 10. Here are the steps.

1. Type “reset” in the Windows/Cortana search bar, then select “Reset This PC” from the results, or click “Open” if it appears.
   
2. Go to the Recovery menu and click on “Reset PC.”
   
3. Click on “Keep My Files.”
   
4. Pick from “Local Reinstall” or “Cloud Download.”
   
5. Select “Next” if you’re ready.
   
6. Review your settings before proceeding.
   
7. Click “Reset” to start the process.
   

A local reinstall is better because you won’t have to download 4GB of data before installing the OS. It may take 30 minutes if your internet connection isn’t the best. Keep your computer plugged into a power source the whole time, and don’t touch anything unnecessarily.

Option 2: Install With an ISO

The ISO process is incredibly similar to the one for Windows 10. In this case, you’ll be using a different tool meant for Windows 11. Make sure you select the appropriate language and edition.

1. Download the Windows 11 installation media creation tool.
   
2. Run the tool.
   
3. Choose the languages again if asked, then click “Next.”
   
4. Click on the “ISO file” option.
   
5. Create the ISO file.
   
6. Right-click the ISO file.
   
7. Select “Mount.”
   
8. Go to the root directory and double-click “Setup.exe.”
   
9. Review the license and terms, then click “Accept.”
   
10. Pick from one of two installation methods.
11. Choose what you want to keep.
    
12. Proceed with your choice and install.

You may notice that the process is identical to Win 10, except for a few minor differences.

Option 3: Use WinRE for Windows 11

Windows Recovery Mode is also included in Windows 11. However, you can access it by holding the Shift key and restarting the PC using the Power menu. It’s quick and safe.

1. Once in WinRE mode, select “Troubleshoot.”
   
2. Click on “Reset This PC.”
   
3. Choose “Keep my files.”
   
4. Pick between “Local Reinstall” or “Cloud Download.”
   
5. Ensure your settings are correct.
6. Click “Reset” to start the reset process.
   

Resetting your PC will restore factory settings and potentially eliminate the problem your computer was facing earlier. In the past, you needed to back everything up beforehand. Today, users can perform this procedure in many ways and retain user files. Of course, you’ll still need to back up any installed app data and custom folder data, but the reset process will retain your user data, such as “My documents,” “My Music,” “Favorites,” etc.

When Windows removes third-party apps not downloaded from the store, you get a list of removed apps. Use it to recall what’s missing and download everything again.

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When you reset your Windows 10 or Windows 11 PC using the correct settings, your user files will always stay where you left them. While some apps may be gone, you can always consult the list and get everything again over time. These methods are all supported by Windows, and you won’t need any third-party software.