How To Reinstall Windows 11 Without Losing Apps And Files

Windows 10 and earlier versions of the Windows operating system do not allow users to reinstall Windows installation by retaining installed apps. Although we can reinstall Windows 10 without losing data/files, installed apps will not be preserved.

Luckily, the latest Windows 11 builds allow users to reinstall the operating system without deleting files, system settings, and installed apps. This means you can reinstall Windows 11 without losing anything. The only condition is that your Windows 11 PC must be connected to an active Internet connection.

Complete the directions below to reinstall Windows 11 without losing apps, files, and settings.

Reinstall Windows 11 without losing apps, files, and settings

NOTE: The same Windows 11 build and version running on your PC will be reinstalled. For instance, if your PC is running Windows 11 23H2 build, the same version will be reinstalled.

Step 1: Navigate to Windows 11 Settings > System > Recovery page.

Step 2: On this page, click the Reinstall now button showing up next to Fix problems using Windows Update.

Step 3: When you see the following screen, click the OK button.

Windows 11 will now begin downloading Windows 11 installation files via Windows Update service. You can see the progress by navigating to Settings > Windows Update page. The download process might take a long time, especially if you have a slow internet connection.

While the download is in progress, you can continue using your Windows 11 computer.

Step 4: Once the installation files are downloaded, installation will start automatically in the background. Once again, you can see the progress by navigating to Windows 11 Settings > Windows Update page and continue using your computer.

Step 5: Once the basic installation is done, you will see the Restart option on the Windows Update page. Save your work and click the Restart button to restart your PC.

Step 6: You will see a “Working on updates. Please keep your computer on” screen. Note that it might take hours to complete the installation. And your PC might restart a few times during this.

Step 7: Once done, you will see the lock screen of your Windows 11 PC. Sign in to your Windows 11 account by typing the password, PIN, or any other method to begin using your reinstalled Windows 11 operating system.

All your apps, files, and settings should be available.

Step 8: We recommend you navigate to Windows 11 Settings > Windows Update page and then click the Check for updates button just to ensure that no updates are pending.

If available, Windows 11 will automatically download and install them.