A clean OS install can make your computer run faster and smoother, but it can also erase your personal data and settings. Fortunately, there are ways to preserve your important files and preferences before you wipe out your old OS and install a new one. Here are some tips to help you keep your data and settings when doing a clean OS install.
The first and most essential step is to backup your data to an external drive, cloud service, or another device. You can use built-in tools like Windows Backup and Restore or Time Machine for Mac, or third-party software like Acronis or EaseUS. Make sure you backup everything you need, such as documents, photos, music, videos, downloads, and bookmarks. You can also backup your email, contacts, and calendar if you use a local client like Outlook or Thunderbird.
For back up we have multiple option, like time machine/or network drive or any other external hard drive where we can keep our important documents and files. If we have cloud storage then also it's good we can access those easily from other device. Like onedrive/google Drive Or some others like aws etc.
The next step is to export your settings for your applications, browsers, and OS. This will allow you to import them later and restore your preferences and customizations. For example, you can export your settings for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari using their sync features or extensions. You can also export your settings for Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, or other programs using their built-in options or third-party tools. For your OS settings, you can use Windows Easy Transfer or Migration Assistant for Mac to copy your user accounts, network settings, and system preferences.
For export settings if we are using any license part then well n good but we don't have then we can use migration assistant that's also a good option
The third step is to create a bootable media that will allow you to install the new OS on your computer. You can use a USB flash drive, DVD, or external hard drive as your bootable media. You will need to download the ISO file of the OS you want to install, such as Windows 10 or macOS Big Sur, and use a tool like Rufus or Disk Utility to create the bootable media. Make sure you have enough space on your bootable media and that it is compatible with your computer's hardware and BIOS.
The fourth step is to install the new OS on your computer using the bootable media. You will need to restart your computer and boot from the bootable media. You will then follow the instructions on the screen to choose your language, keyboard layout, partition scheme, and license agreement. You will also have the option to format your hard drive and erase your old OS. This is where you will perform the clean OS install, which will remove all your data and settings from your computer. Make sure you have a backup of your data and settings before you proceed.
The final step is to restore your data and settings from your backup and export files. You can use the same tools that you used to backup and export your data and settings, such as Windows Backup and Restore or Time Machine for Mac, or Acronis or EaseUS for third-party software. You can also use Windows Easy Transfer or Migration Assistant for Mac to restore your user accounts, network settings, and system preferences. You can then import your settings for your applications, browsers, and OS using their sync features or extensions. You can also reinstall any programs that you need and activate them with your license keys.
By following these steps, you can keep your data and settings when doing a clean OS install. This will save you time and hassle, and make your computer feel like new without losing your personal touch.
1. Export and save application settings: Some applications allow you to export or back up your settings. Check if your important applications offer such functionality and save the exported settings to a safe location. This can include settings for email clients, web browsers, productivity tools, and other software you frequently use. 2. Take note of custom configurations: If you have customized system settings, preferences, or configurations, take note of them or take screenshots so that you can reapply them after the clean OS installation. 3. Verify your backups: Before proceeding with the clean OS installation, double-check that your backups are complete and accessible. Ensure that you can restore your data from the backups successfully.