Possible to backup software and restore?

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  1. Posts : 2
    Windows 10
       #1

    Possible to backup software and restore?


    Okay, so, it looks like I'm going to have to refresh or reset Windows 10 at this point (I'm having an issue with it but I have tried all possible solutions). Is it possible to backup the program files, and/or registry settings for those programs and then restore afterwards? Even if I do it manually, it would save me a LOT of time than having to reinstall every single program (I have tons). Just wandering if there was a way to do this at all to an external drive, just to make it easier for me to reset the system.

    Thanks,
    Rowan
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 4,131
    Windows 3.1 to Windows 11
       #2

    Using the Refresh Option, should restore the windows OS only, leaving your installed programs and files intact..
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 2
    Windows 10
    Thread Starter
       #3

    Kyhi said:
    Using the Refresh Option, should restore the windows OS only, leaving your installed programs and files intact..
    Thank you for your prompt reply!

    On the Microsoft Website, it says refreshing my PC will allow me to keep my personal files, but will remove apps and settings.
    Is this just referring to Windows Apps?
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 822
    Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64-bit
       #4

    If you end up having to install all your software again I would suggest you look at Ninite web site . they have many program's and very simple way to install the most up to date versions. They probably will not have every program you want but it may help.

    Discription: https://ninite.com/

    Install and Update All Your Programs at Once

    No toolbars. No clicking next. Just pick your apps and go.


    Ninite will

    • start working as soon as you run it
    • not bother you with any choices or options
    • install apps in their default location
    • say no to toolbars or extra junk
    • install 64-bit apps on 64-bit machines
    • install apps in your PC's language or one you choose
    • do all its work in the background
    • install the latest stable version of an app
    • skip up-to-date apps
    • skip any reboot requests from installers
    • use your proxy settings from Internet Explorer
    • download apps from each publisher's official site
    • verify digital signatures or hashes before running anything
    • work best if you turn off any web filters or firewalls
    • save you a lot of time!


    They have a free version and a paid version.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 15,441
    Windows10
       #5

    Kyhi said:
    Using the Refresh Option, should restore the windows OS only, leaving your installed programs and files intact..
    No sorry mate - there is no refresh option on Windows 10 unlike Windows 8. No idea why it was removed. Only two options :

    reset keeping data but not installed programs

    reset keeping nothing (more or less a clean install).
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 4,131
    Windows 3.1 to Windows 11
       #6

    Ok, it is RESET - but choose option > Keep my files
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 15,441
    Windows10
       #7

    Reset my pc keeping files only keeps datafiles in user directories. It does not keep installed programs in programfiles. This is major gripe as no obvious reason why this functionality in windows 8 was removed.
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 134,237
    Windows 11 Pro (x64) 23H2 Build 22631.3296
       #8

    The user can use the Windows Repair option and THAT does keep ALL the user files and personal data. The repair option only repairs /replaces the Windows files, nothing else.
    Repair Install Windows 10 with an In-place Upgrade
      My Computers


  9. Posts : 4,131
    Windows 3.1 to Windows 11
       #9

    Thanks Mike.......

    This is what happens when you bounce between three different forums... they all run togather sooner or latter..
    I knew there was a way to refresh windows 10 without removing user programs and files..
      My Computer


  10. Posts : 134,237
    Windows 11 Pro (x64) 23H2 Build 22631.3296
       #10

    Kyhi said:
    Thanks Mike.......

    This is what happens when you bounce between three different forums... they all run togather sooner or latter..
    I knew there was a way to refresh windows 10 without removing user programs and files..
    Yes I understand Kyhi Take care, Mike :)
      My Computers


 

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