Windows 10: What's the difference between a fresh install and reset of the PC?

Hi,


I'd like to know if there are differences between doing a fresh install and reset the computer through the settings app.


I don't understand the differences between the two options apart from the fact that the fresh install scan for updates and then reset the computer, while the reset feature just reset Windows.


Are there any other differences?


Thanks.

:)

 

Fresh Install or Reset PC?

When you select Recovery option the Reset PC it gives the option to 'Remove Everything' so Is a Fresh Install the same as using the Reset Pc function?
There is also an Advanced startup option.

I want to start completely fresh and do a clean install but really not sure which option i should use.

 

How to factory reset Cisco 1700 Router

Hopefully I can help you here....its a very common thing to happen.


First, I take it you dont know the passwords for console access or telnet/ssh?

I will assume that these devices belong to you.

step 1. Plug a cisco console cable into a serial port on your pc
step 2. Plug other end into Cisco console port
step 3. Using hyperterm or putty or similar connect to the serial port
step 4. boot router, and make sure you clearly can see the output (this confirms you have good serial comms)
step 5. if this fails, adjust the comm port settings (9600, 8,1,n are the default)
step 6. now you have to do the only hard part...send the break command:

Break command list: Break Commands

Go down the list and match your OS and SW and try the sequence suggested.

If this fails several times do what I do: Install putty (free) and then to send a break so you can get into rommom just hit "ctrl-a b".

 

Does doing a fresh install make a difference

I've gone both routes...main PC fresh install.. main laptop upgrade. Kid PC1 upgrade, Kid PC2 fresh install. All are stable.

The upgrade creates a Windows.old directory it is supposed to remove after 30-days which is supposed to allow you to rollback, which seems to work best post-1511 in my experience.

I will say this, if you have better drivers and software installed that isn't supported natively in 10, you're better-off doing an upgrade to keep those features and drivers more intact. That I have found for some older hardware where the driver support stops at Windows 7 or 8.

In the days of yore, a fresh install was always preferred...but Microsoft has done a pretty good job of allowing in-place upgrades to actually be carried out with much greater success to the point on 10 I could really recommend going either way. If you like how your system is right now and want to give 10 a go, here's what I recommend.

• Download Macrium Reflect Free.
• Create a full disk image on a USB hard drive or spare hard drive. Create bootable media as well.
• Upgrade to Windows 10.
• Enjoy = Profit.
• Issues = Rollback, restore from image or fresh OS install. Now you have options and all of them lead to you not losing anything! *Big Grin

EDIT: I should add I've seen some experiences like @rtwjunkie states, so here's some more tips.

• Open CMD in Windows, run as administrator.
• Run CHKDSK against C:, if errors, perform repair, if not repairable, replace drive. If pass or drive replaced continue.
• Run SFC /Scannow, if issues not found or issues repaired, continue. If not, report back and I can assist with further commands to get your Windows 8 system back up to snuff.
• Verify drivers, system, programs stable. Perform disk cleanup, defrag/trim, etc. Remove unwanted junk.
• BACKUP your data before performing any major process like upgrading. This should be common sense, but many choose to ignore this and then greatly regret it.
• If OC'd, verify your system is stable or remove OC prior to upgrade process...this will reduce the chances of data corruption and upgrade failure, either of which could lead to a failed upgrade and no longer bootable OS.
• Run MBAM, Defender, whatever you have for AV to ensure your system isn't obviously infected prior to upgrading, see Sol's TPU AV guide if you need assistance.
• Once your system is clean, stable and smooth...go back to the list above this one and let us know how it goes!

*Toast :toast: