Repair Windows 11: Upgrade Without Losing Your Files
If your Windows 11 computer isn’t working right and quick fixes don’t help, you can repair it by doing an “In-place upgrade.” This means reinstalling Windows but keeping all your files, apps, and settings safe.
There are other ways to fix Windows too, like resetting your PC without deleting your data. You can learn more about that here: Reset Windows 11 without losing data.
For the In-place upgrade, you need a copy of Windows 11 called an “ISO file.” This file must match your current Windows edition, language, and version or be newer. You also need at least 20 GB of free space on your main Windows drive.
Perform an in-place upgrade using a Windows 11 ISO. Mount the ISO, run setup.exe, and select “Keep personal files and apps” when prompted to preserve your data. This process reinstalls Windows 11 while retaining your files and applications.
Steps to Repair 🪟 Windows 11 with an In-place Upgrade
Before you begin, please check these important things:
- Turn off or uninstall any antivirus or security software you installed.
- Turn off BitLocker encryption if it’s enabled.
- Download a full Windows 11 ISO file if you don’t have one.
- Mount (open) the ISO file on your computer.
Once you have done these, follow these simple steps:
1Open the 🪟 Windows 11 ISO file
Double-click the ISO file you downloaded. It will open like a new drive on your computer.
2Run the setup program
Inside the opened ISO, find and double-click setup.exe to start the Windows installer.
If you see a pop-up asking for permission (User Account Control), click Yes.
3Change update settings
When the setup window opens, click the link that says “Change how Setup downloads updates”.
4Choose Not right now for updates
In the next window, select Not right now. This means the setup won’t download updates, drivers, or extra features during install.
5Let Windows check your PC
The setup will now check your computer to make sure it’s ready for the upgrade. It will check for enough free space and other requirements.
6Choose what to keep
When you see the Ready to install window, click the link that says Change what to keep.
7Select Keep personal files and apps
In the next window, pick Keep personal files and apps to make sure nothing gets deleted.
8Start the upgrade
Click the Install button to begin the repair process.
9Wait for the repair to finish
Your PC will now upgrade Windows 11 while keeping your files and apps safe. This can take some time, and your computer may restart a few times.
10Done!
When finished, you will be able to log back into your PC. Your files and apps should still be there, and many Windows problems may be fixed.
Summary
- This guide helps you repair Windows 11 without losing your files, apps, or settings.
- Doing an In-place upgrade is a safe way to fix Windows problems when nothing else works.
- If you have questions or want to share tips, feel free to leave a comment where you found this guide.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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