Solved reinstall win 7 without losing installed programs

[TTRON]

Is it possible to reinstall windows 7 x64 over itself without losing the installed programs?
I assume the data will be OK if no format is performed but will the installation find the installed programs like MS Office and keep them active or will I have to reinstall all my apps again?
Thanks

 

[seavixen32]

Because the reinstall updates the system registry you will have to reinstall all your applications.

 

[theog]

How to Do a Repair Install to Fix Windows 7
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/3413-repair-install.html

How to Boot to the System Recovery Options in Windows 7
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/668-system-recovery-options.html

 

[gregrocker]

If what you are referring to is the Repair Install linked by Theog above, then it keeps all programs and settings in place while reinstalling the OS. But make a Win7 backup image so you have a path back if it somehow fails. Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup

If you want to clean reinstall by selecting Custom Install then it will overwrite everything and you must reinstall all programs. Clean Install Windows 7

 

[TTRON]

Thanks guys for your input.
I tried any and all possible repair/recovery options prior to posting. I have re mdone all drivers etc. unfortunately I dont have a list of my Win Updates prior to august.
I am going to backup necessary data and do a clean install. I wish we could bill Microsoft for the time wasted doing this. It seems it has to be done at least twice during the cycle of the OS.

 

[gregrocker]

If you'll follow the steps in the Perfect Reinstall link in my signature picture below, you'll not set yourself up for any problems down the line and get the best reinstall possible.