Refresh the OS without removing programs?

[jamesleduc313]

My work computer has Windows 7 Home Premium. I want to reinstall the OS without losing any programs is that possible? I believe there is some corrupted system files causing issues.

Also, is there a way to backup ONLY your program files and then add it back onto a new installation of Windows 7/10?

 

[USAFRet]

My work computer has Windows 7 Home Premium. I want to reinstall the OS without losing any programs is that possible? I believe there is some corrupted system files causing issues.

Also, is there a way to backup ONLY your program files and then add it back onto a new installation of Windows 7/10?

1. I don't believe that functionality exists for Win 7.

2. No, you can't apply the Programs folder back into a whole new OS.

 

[ex_bubblehead]

My work computer has Windows 7 Home Premium. I want to reinstall the OS without losing any programs is that possible? I believe there is some corrupted system files causing issues.

Also, is there a way to backup ONLY your program files and then add it back onto a new installation of Windows 7/10?

1. I don't believe that functionality exists for Win 7.

2. No, you can't apply the Programs folder back into a whole new OS.

Actually, you can do a repair install with Windows 7.

https://www.pcgamer.com/how-to-repair-a-faulty-windows-installation-without-reformatting/

However, if all that's wrong is some system file corruption you are much better off following method 1 rather than a full reinstall. If method 1 doesn't work then you go to method 2.