Windows 7 clean installation question


  1. Posts : 1
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #1

    Windows 7 clean installation question


    Hi,

    I have 500 GB hard drive with 3 partitions. Windows 7 is installed on C: drive, 8.1 is installed on D: drive (dual boot) and all of my programs and files are on E: drive. I would like to uninstall Windows 8.1 and do a clean installation of Windows 7 without losing data from E: drive. Can I simply insert Windows 7 installation CD and format first 2 drives and do clean installation without losing data or do I have to format whole hard drive?
      My Computer


  2. whs
    Posts : 26,210
    Vista, Windows7, Mint Mate, Zorin, Windows 8
       #2

    That is going to be a bit messy. I suggest to backup the User files from E (the programs cannot be used in a new installation) and start from scratch. Wipe the whole disk and install 7. Here is one way to do it.

    Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7

    When you are done with the installation, create a new E partition and recover the data from the backup.
      My Computer

  3.    #3

    You should always have your data backed up to begin with, against hard drive failure.

    If you do and you want to keep E intact then I'd delete the other partitions and create a new on it their place. As long as you don't touch E you have nothing to worry about, providing you have a backup.


    The tutorial Wolfgang linked above will assure you get and keep a perfect install for as long as you stick with the steps, tools and methods in it.
      My Computer


 

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