Create a full backup of your Windows PC.
Create a full backup of your Windows PC.
I don't have personal experience, but I can share general guidance. Checking compatibility and backup methods is important before proceeding. If you restore from a backup and reinstall Windows 8, it may work depending on the state of your system and files. Always back up critical data first.
I would simply duplicate the entire disk using tools such as Seagate Disc Wizard and MBR via MBRWizard. Links: http://www.raymond.cc/blog/5-free-tools-...store-mbr/ http://www.seagate.com/support/downloads/discwizard/
I don’t need to copy the OS since I’ll reinstall Windows 8. I have the 8.1 preview and want to maintain my programs, user settings, etc., but then reinstall 8 and restore everything.
Consider using Windows backup or manually transferring your files to an external drive.
I usually prefer Macrium Reflect Free. It generates an image of the disk so you can examine it later or recover it if necessary—it's saved me several times already. EDIT: I notice you're not interested in copying the operating system itself... would you like to perform a straightforward file copy instead?
Eh... it seems you're facing a challenge with two distinct tasks. First, you can simply transfer user files by dragging and dropping or copying them to another storage device like an external hard drive. This includes all your documents, photos, videos, music, saved games, and more. You can also save user settings and profiles for various applications. Second, copying programs is much trickier. Most software saves information in the "Registry," which Windows uses to manage how everything interacts. You can transfer program folders from one installation to another, but this won't include registry changes. Some programs keep data in folders such as ProgramData or AppData. While some may still function after copying, others might lose features or break entirely. Others may fail to launch at all. Only by testing each program will you discover what happens. The better approach is to back up user settings before reinstalling the software, then reinstall Windows afterward. You'll need product keys for certain programs, and some can be recovered with specialized tools, though success isn't guaranteed.