clean install

If sfc /scannow repaired errors, try running it again (after Windows restart).

Suggestions above are all good.

If sfc shows no error, lets focus on problems.. mail etc. What are symptoms?

maranna said:

I was using MBAM free with Defender but it seemed to have changed unless it was b/c I had the wrong build. I was ok with it as it was.
Do I understand that Defender with a good firewall would suffice?

Defender is both an antivirus and a firewall.

maranna said:

... Perhaps Defender alone is sufficient. It seems much improved and comprehensive.
Do you have an opinion?

Everyone has opinions - and they all differ


Personally I use just Windows Security, with its PUA (PUP) protection turned on in 'App & browser control'.



I back that up with an occasional scan with ADWCleaner (which invariably finds nothing).

maranna said:

Right now all is well. It was my error that began all this by installing the wrong build. I think I have corrected all that needs it including SFC. I just need to rebuild a MCT on the 8th although I will be using reset in the future if needed. Thank you.

In my opinion, Repair install has same success as Reset, but you keep all your applications. If you really need it. System backup is even better.

Regarding AV - same as Bree here. Defender, PUP and I also have Controlled folders enabled (Ramsomware protection). A long time since any of this (beside PUP) triggered any alert.

Again, backup with system images helps me be more relaxed

maranna said:

How do you do a repair install? I tried it once with the installation media(no boot) but saw no repair.
I thought reset offered the chance to keep your features or not?
Instead of system backup I use Macrium Reflect as it is faster. I use two external drives in case of failure.
I would not pester but ne to be informed. TY

You download ISO (latest - same edition as you use) from MS, and mount ISO. Setup is started automatically, and you follow Windows installation (from current session)

Repair Install Windows 10 with an In-place Upgrade

As Andre says, but if you've turned off Autorun for DVDs then you'll need to go to the mounted virtual DVD and run the Setup.exe you'll see in the root of the drive to start the in-place repair install.