I don't perform installations myself, but I can help you understand how often a clean install is recommended.
I don't perform installations myself, but I can help you understand how often a clean install is recommended.
All files reside on individual HDDs, but they become inaccessible after a clean OS installation since the registry is also erased, correct?
6 to 12 months on a laptop, 12 to 24 months on a desktop. I’d run it more often on my desktop if I had extra time. My laptop runs with fewer than five programs, built to operate simply for minimal issues when using a live DJ/lighting setup. Any software I previously needed for school gets removed this way, and I don’t store any data except music files.
Previously it happened every year, but now it's less frequent. Now it's done only when necessary.
I've observed that most games also generate files and folders on the OS drive, even when Steam and all the actual titles reside elsewhere. These save files are typically backed up to the cloud, which should ensure everything functions properly during a fresh installation. That's reassuring. I often wondered how tech experts and benchmarkers manage to set up new systems so efficiently. I hope I won't need a clean install anytime soon—or ever. Still, the old XP experience left a lasting impression. Thanks everyone.