Win 10 recovery USB drive. Question re personal info

Hello Doc, :)

The recovery drive won't include any personal files. It can be used on any Windows 10 PC for what you're wanting to do.

Create Recovery Drive in Windows 10 Windows 10 Tutorials

A Windows 10 installation USB would be better though. It would contain the same as a recovery drive with the option to be able to install Windows if needed.

Create Bootable USB Flash Drive to Install Windows 10 Windows 10 Tutorials

thedoc46 said:

I'm wondering if this USB recovery drive is specific for that user PC and that user pc only. Most importantly does it contain personal files ? hidden away in an iso / cab format to recover personal files. Anyway all i want is the tools to try bootrec repairs to try and get them back up and running. but obviously don't want to go sending personal files.

No, it shouldn't contain personal info, but it is specific to the PC that created it (in one way, at least). If you left the 'include system files' box ticked (it's ticked by default) then it includes all the source files to reinstall Windows. This will include any OEM custom apps and drivers if you make it from an OEM-installed Windows 10 (effectively it is a 'factory reset' drive). It is also specific to the 'bits' of the system, x86 or x64.

If you just want the tools, then untick the 'include system files' box. You'll then not need a 'sizeable USB'.

As Brink says, an install USB would be useful. It includes all the repair tools in addition to being able to reinstall Windows. A minimum of an 8GB USB is required.