How to Perform a Windows Rebuild

A rebuild entails reinstaling the operating system of the computer. This article is for personally owned computers (not Butler owned computers). 

By following these steps, you can successfully rebuild your Windows 10 or Windows 11 operating system, providing a fresh start and resolving any existing issues. If you have any questions, click Create New Case on this page and submit a case for Information Technology.

 

Rebuilding Windows Without Boot Media

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Before starting the rebuild process, ensure you back up all important data to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another safe location.

1. Connect an external drive to your computer.

2. Copy important files and folders to the external drive.

3. Alternatively, use cloud services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox for backups.

Step 2: Reset Your PC

Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer a built-in reset feature that can restore your system to its original state.

1. Open Settings:

   • Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.

2. Navigate to Recovery:

   • Windows 10: Go to Update & Security > Recovery.

   • Windows 11: Go to System > Recovery.

3. Reset This PC:

   • Under the Reset this PC section, click Get started.

4. Choose an Option:

   • You will be given two options:

     • Keep my files: This option reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files.

     • Remove everything: This option reinstalls Windows and removes all your personal files, apps, and settings.

   • Select the option that best suits your needs.

5. Choose How to Reinstall Windows:

   • You can choose to reinstall Windows from the cloud or from a local reinstall.

     • Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from the internet.

     • Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows from your device’s existing installation files.

   • Select your preferred method and follow the on-screen instructions.

6. Follow the Prompts:

   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process. Your computer will restart several times during this process.

Step 3: Setup Windows

1. After the reset is complete, your computer will restart.

2. Follow the setup wizard to configure your preferences (e.g., region, keyboard layout, etc.).

3. Create a user account and set up your preferences.

4. Restore your backed-up data and reinstall necessary applications.

Final Tips

• Ensure your computer is plugged into a power source throughout the process to avoid interruptions.

• If available connect to a Wired Internet connection to ensure internet connectivity

• Keep your product key handy in case it’s needed during the installation.

• Regularly back up your data to avoid loss in the future.

Related Links:

What is a Computer Rebuild? (Students Only) - Operating System Reinstall

How to Perform a Mac OS Rebuild