Janek When your Windows system starts misbehaving—slow boot times, random crashes, or system file corruption—you’re left with two big options: reinstall or restore. But which one should you choose?
This guide walks you through each method, what it does, and when to use it—so you can fix your system without wiping out your data.
Option 1: System Restore
System Restore lets you revert your PC to a previous stable state—perfect if a recent change caused the issue.
How to use it:
- Press
Windows + R, typerstrui.exe, and press Enter. - Choose a restore point.
- Follow the prompts to restore and restart.
Best for: Driver problems, failed updates, or app-related issues
Not great for: Malware or deep system corruption
More info: How to use System Restore in Windows
Option 2: In-Place Repair Install
This method reinstalls Windows over itself using an official ISO file while keeping your files, apps, and settings. It’s one of the most effective and safe recovery options.
What you’ll need:
- A matching Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft:
Download ISO from Microsoft - 20 GB of free space
- About 30–60 minutes
How to do it:
- Download the ISO file.
- Right-click and select “Mount”.
- Open the new virtual drive and run
setup.exe. - Choose “Keep personal files and apps”.
- Let it complete the repair and reboot.
Best for:
- Windows Update or component store issues
- Broken apps or features
- DISM or SFC failures
Not for:
- Full disk cleanup or malware recovery
More info: Repair install guide (Microsoft)
Option 3: Reset This PC
Reset This PC lets you reinstall Windows using a built-in image. You can either keep your files or remove everything for a full wipe.
How to use it:
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery
- Click Reset this PC > Get Started
- Choose between:
- Keep my files
- Remove everything
Best for:
- Severe software damage
- Starting fresh
- Cleaning up system bloat
Drawbacks:
- All apps will be removed
- You’ll need to reinstall drivers and software
More info: Reset this PC overview
Option 4: Full Clean Install
This is a full reinstallation of Windows using a bootable USB drive. You’ll lose everything on the system drive, so back up first.
How to do it:
- Download the Media Creation Tool
- Use it to create bootable installation media
- Boot your PC from the USB drive
- Choose “Custom Install” and format the drive
- Install Windows fresh
Best for:
- Replacing your hard drive or SSD
- Heavily corrupted or malware-infected systems
- Giving away or selling the device
Microsoft installation help: Clean install instructions
Summary: Which One Should You Use?
| Scenario | Recommended Fix |
|---|---|
| Recent driver or update caused issues | System Restore |
| Windows is buggy but apps and files are fine | In-Place Repair Install |
| You want to start fresh but keep files | Reset This PC |
| You’re replacing the drive or want a clean slate | Clean Install |
Final Tip: Back Up Before You Act
Before using any of the above methods, create a backup of your personal files. Whether that means copying files to a USB drive or syncing with OneDrive, it’s the best insurance you can have.
