Let’s say you find that constant lag is slowing down the performance of your Windows 7 PC. Maybe it’s time to reinstall the OS. From registry problems to malware to being cluttered with large amounts of unnecessary software, a fresh OS install can solve several common problems. If your computer came with a factory restore disc, it probably has several different reinstallation options aimed at getting your machine up and running.
Feel free to also see our guide on how to speed up Windows. In addition, if you encounter any problems while using Windows 7, we explain how to solve known Windows 7 problems.
Unfortunately, Microsoft is no longer offering official support for Windows 7 as of January 14, 2020, leaving users with few options if their computer crashes. As such, Digital Trends not Recommend for our readers to use Windows 7 on their devices. If you choose to ignore this advice, please note that we cannot be held responsible for any errors or problems that may occur. We recommend that you upgrade to Windows 10 immediately.
Prepare your Windows 7 CD/serial key
After you finish installing Windows 7, the OS will ask you to insert the CD/serial key. This key allows Microsoft to verify that you have a legitimate, legal copy of Windows 7, even though updates are no longer available. Avoiding the constant pop-ups from Windows asking you to confirm the installation with a key is also a nice bonus.
Be sure to have this handy – if your PC or Windows 7 recovery disc came in a paper or plastic sleeve, the key would likely be on it. Since Windows 7 is no longer supported, this key is the only way to get a legitimate copy of Windows 7 from Microsoft.
How to back up your data
Regardless of which type of Windows installation you choose, it’s always a good idea to back up your data before starting the process. Check out our guide on how to back up your computer if you prefer step-by-step instructions, or our top picks for the best free backup software if you’re looking for a few quality options to back up your data. It’s never a bad idea to have an extra copy of your data just in case something goes wrong during the installation process.
How to mount installation media
If you have a copy of the disc that originally came with your computer or another copy of Windows on CD or DVD, go to the next page to learn more about installation types. If not, you’ll need to first create a Windows 7 reinstallation disc by uploading the image to a USB drive or burning it to a DVD, as shown below.
How to get a copy of Windows 7
If you don’t already have a Windows installation disc, you can download a fresh copy of Microsoft’s operating system. Note that you will still need a legitimate, matching serial key to activate Windows 7.
Once you have downloaded the appropriate Windows 7, go to this Windows 7 USB/DVD download tool page and click the download link located under the Installation section of the page. Then install the tool and follow the on-screen instructions. While the tool is running, you’ll need to select the Windows 7 ISO you downloaded, then tell the Windows 7 USB/DVD download tool whether you want to burn that file to a USB flash drive or a DVD.
How to choose the type of installation
Make sure your new Windows installation disc or USB drive is inserted into your computer, then reboot. While your computer is booting up, you will be prompted to press any key to boot from the disk or flash drive. Do so. When you’re in Windows 7 Setup, click Install. You will see one of two installation options — Upgrade and Custom (Advanced).
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If you choose Upgrade, Windows should leave your files and programs intact while replacing core system files and changing some settings. Choosing to upgrade essentially prevents you from reinstalling all your apps and restoring your data from a backup, but it doesn’t give your PC the full spring cleaning treatment. However, if you choose Custom, your files and programs will not be saved.
Although there may be only one installation option available to you, depending on your system configuration, you’ll likely have a small partition labeled System Reserved if you’re using Windows Vista or an earlier version of Windows. Start by selecting the drive or partition you want to use to install the new OS. It would help if you refrained from reformatting or installing Windows on the System Reserved partition, although it will likely be too small for a full OS installation anyway. This will minimize your chances of experiencing any related complications. Since reinstalling Windows 7 is already a tedious process, you won’t want to deal with any other problems.
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Keep clicking through the installer until the process starts. Copying the Windows files and expanding the setup files can take a while, so feel free to leave your computer alone for about 15-20 minutes. Your computer will probably restart at least once during the process, but it should immediately restart into the installer and pick up where it left off.
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Keep moving through the installer until the actual process begins. The copy and setup process can take a while, so feel free to let your computer take care of things for a few minutes — 15-20 should be enough to get you started. Your computer may restart one or more times during this process, but it should always be restarted in the installation process if this happens.
The installer will ask you to provide information in the final stages of the process. The information you provide will directly affect all future use of Windows 7, so don’t ignore the instructions or give half-hearted answers to the questions they ask.
The questions will include your user preferences and information like your time zone, which can help you customize your Windows 7 experience. Run Windows Update to make sure everything is up to date when you start the system.
Reinstalling Windows 7 on your computer can be a tedious process, but it’s worth it. An OS with the latest updates and meals will keep your machine running as fast and efficient as a brand new computer.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn