Does a new install delete my files


  1. Posts : 3
    Windows 7 64
       #1

    Does a new install delete my files


    Hi,

    I know this is a really dumb question, but unless I know for sure the consequenses could be pretty painful so...

    I have two physical disc drives in my machine, one where I keep my programs (c) and one where I keep my data (e).

    I did a registry clean yesterday and a program has stopped working and reinstalling it hasn't fixed the problem. So I'm planning to do a clean install of windows and start from scratch.

    So here's my really dumb question. If I reinstall to C nothing will happen to the files on e, right?
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 7,730
    Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 64-Bit
       #2

    Welcome to Windows Seven Forums.

    It depends what you are using to reinstall Windows with.

    If you are carrying out a clean install with a Windows DVD and you make sure you choose the C drive to install it to, the E data drive will be untouched.

    If you are using a set of recovery discs to restore to the factory state the complete C drive will be formatted and you will lose anything on it you haven't backed up first.

    Whichever method you use, I would advise you backup anything that is really important - just in case.

    Like you, I keep all my personal data on a separate drive from the Windows drive, but this data drive is also backed up on a regular basis to an external hard drive as well.

    Some people may say it's overkill - I call it belt and braces - if one falls apart the other keeps things together. :)

    I've just noticed after reading Theog's comment that you do have two drives rather than two partitions so I really should get my eyes seen to.

    His advice to remove the E drive first is good as are his other suggestions.
    Last edited by seavixen32; 19 Oct 2011 at 08:01. Reason: Spelling error
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 11,408
    ME/XP/Vista/Win7
       #3

    You can physical remove the Drive E: before doing a reinstall.

    But I would try file scan first:
    SFC /SCANNOW Command - System File Checker
    Also a Restore to time before using the registry cleaner yesterday:
    System Restore
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 12,012
    Windows 7 Home Premium SP1, 64-bit
       #4

    tmcthree said:
    If I reinstall to C nothing will happen to the files on e, right?
    If you disconnect the E drive, nothing can happen to it or your data, even if you tried or made a bad mistake. If you are highly nervous about it, disconnect it.

    Otherwise, just make sure you choose C for the install.
      My Computer


 

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