[blukatz92]

So I've been reading around and have yet to come across a clear answer. I am wanting to do a repair install for Windows 7, not a clean reinstall. As I understand, this should not reformat my hard drive, so all my files, documents, programs etc. should still be there. Now, does this make a Windows.old folder where all my current data is? Or does it leave my programs and files where they are now? Supposedly I should be able to use my programs right away after a repair, correct? Or would I have to reinstall them? I've seen both yes and no for this and so I'm unsure. I do have an extra drive to back up my old files just in case. Thanks!

[LiveBrianD]

Take a look at this: http://www.sevenforu...ir-install.html

Note that doing that might require you to reinstall drivers. If you do a regular clean install, your programs will be removed and all your documents will be moved to the windows.old folder on the root of the C: drive.

[blukatz92]

Cool. Upon reading though, it does mention a Windows.old folder, which means it keeps the data, but I would have to reinstall all my programs in order to use them again.

[LiveBrianD]

If you do a full reinstall, yes, you loose your programs and settings.

[blukatz92]

Okay, so for clarity's sake, clean reinstall = lose programs and settings
repair install = keep programs and settings

The main reason to choose a clean install over a repair is it has a greater guarantee of stability, a repair install is just more convenient, as you don't lose your programs and most settings. I might have to reinstall drivers, but that's not that big of a deal.
Cool, thanks!

[LiveBrianD]

Yep, you got it!

[Kathi201]

Thanks blikatz i get this because i have also same issue,

[henrywilliams]

While you're just repairing your Windows you can use your previously installed program right after the installation. Windows will not create a separate folder to save your old files. All the folders will remain same.