Windows 7: installing Windows from scratch

I have a project where i need to install windows on a PC from scratch, i have my laptop which has Windows 7 currently installed, Do I have to format my whole computer in order to install windows from scratch? or is there a way I can do this and not delete everything?

If you are installing from scratch, you would be clean reinstalling - the other option that keeps your programs, files and settings in place is a Repair Install.

Here are tips for getting a perfect Windows 7 reinstall based on hundreds done here: Reinstalling Windows 7 - Windows 7 Forums

Like I mentioned before I do have Windows 7 installed, Do I just insert the Windows 7 disc, and from the boot menu install it on a unused partition or must i completely uninstall windows 7 and then start over?

If you have Windows on one partition and your data on another, you would not have to lose your data. You will lose everything on the partition that you have Windows on. == There is no need to uninstall. Insert your Win 7 disk, shut down your PC and reboot with the disk in the DVD drive and it will format your partition and get it in shape for the install. It is a very easy process. Just follow the screen instructions. Good luck

You're questions are confusing, at least to me.

Do you want to replace the existing Win 7 installation or do you need to do a fresh install as part of this project? If the latter then you can install to a different partition if you have one free or free up some space if you don't. That way you won't lose your current Win 7 installation or data.

It would be a very good idea to backup any data you have that you are not willing to lose just in case something goes wrong. It shouldn't but Murphy's law applies here.

If you do a custom install and don't format or repartition the partition that windows is on then it will install Windows and create a Windows.old folder where your old windows install will reside, so all of your data will still be there.

You cannot count on windows.old being your only backup method. You should back up your data externally or to another HD.

If you don't want to replace your current installation, then to Dual Boot Windows 7 the steps are the same as here: Dual Boot Installation with Windows 7 and Vista - Windows 7 Forums If using separate HD's it's easier to unplug the existing Windows 7 to install the new one, then afterwards plug it back in and boot the desired HD using BIOS one-time Boot Menu.

[QUOTE=gregrocker;1325982]You cannot count on windows.old being your only backup method. You should back up your data externally or to another HD.]

I agree, windows.old has caused me issues in the past. Better to back up to an external device

Clean Install Windows 7