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Tips for saving data and apps prior to a fresh Windows setup

Tips for saving data and apps prior to a fresh Windows setup

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seomilk77
Member
181
09-10-2016, 08:39 PM
#1
I've been facing some PC problems lately, so my plan is to reinstall Windows using the repair tool. Like everyone else, I have a lot of apps and files that are important for my gaming needs. My question is: should I just back everything up to this old 10-year-old 2TB external HDD? That means using Windows FileHistory for personal backups and copying the Programs and Programs (x86) folders onto the same drive so I have a record of what I installed. My main goal is to fix this so I can play Diablo IV again, but I’ll make sure to note which programs are currently installed.
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seomilk77
09-10-2016, 08:39 PM #1

I've been facing some PC problems lately, so my plan is to reinstall Windows using the repair tool. Like everyone else, I have a lot of apps and files that are important for my gaming needs. My question is: should I just back everything up to this old 10-year-old 2TB external HDD? That means using Windows FileHistory for personal backups and copying the Programs and Programs (x86) folders onto the same drive so I have a record of what I installed. My main goal is to fix this so I can play Diablo IV again, but I’ll make sure to note which programs are currently installed.

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RadGold
Junior Member
8
09-12-2016, 10:10 AM
#2
had difficulty getting the system to start, probably because of the file system and certain files. most operating systems require a fresh install rather than just copying files. the recovery feature has never helped me, so it’s best to manually organize folders and copy them to the correct location. I often miss files, which is why I prefer the whole C drive. changing or replacing files can cause problems. maybe just luck was on my side. Edited June 7, 2023 by thrasher_565
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RadGold
09-12-2016, 10:10 AM #2

had difficulty getting the system to start, probably because of the file system and certain files. most operating systems require a fresh install rather than just copying files. the recovery feature has never helped me, so it’s best to manually organize folders and copy them to the correct location. I often miss files, which is why I prefer the whole C drive. changing or replacing files can cause problems. maybe just luck was on my side. Edited June 7, 2023 by thrasher_565

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iTestify
Member
95
09-26-2016, 02:15 AM
#3
I believe reviewing the program folders will give you a clear overview of the applications in use.
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iTestify
09-26-2016, 02:15 AM #3

I believe reviewing the program folders will give you a clear overview of the applications in use.

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CatV_
Junior Member
3
09-26-2016, 02:27 AM
#4
It's possible programs place files in unusual locations. I suspect some games like Diablo 2 Signal Player Saver might be stored in the D2 folder instead of where you expect. Probably depends on which programs you installed and how long it took to reformat your drive. Seems like a bit of disorganization on my part. Even after a format, things can still behave differently.
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CatV_
09-26-2016, 02:27 AM #4

It's possible programs place files in unusual locations. I suspect some games like Diablo 2 Signal Player Saver might be stored in the D2 folder instead of where you expect. Probably depends on which programs you installed and how long it took to reformat your drive. Seems like a bit of disorganization on my part. Even after a format, things can still behave differently.