Question Resetting my PC and Reinstalling Drivers - Where to Start?

[edwardpawley221]

Hello!

I've been contemplating giving my PC a fresh start by resetting it, but I'm feeling a bit lost about where to begin. I know I'll need to reinstall my drivers, but I'm not sure if that's all there is to it. Are there any other components or software that I should be reinstalling to ensure my PC works properly again?

My plan is to upload the necessary drivers onto a USB stick and reinstall them from there. However, I'm still confused about the broader scope of what should be reinstalled for a complete system refresh. If anyone has experience with this process or can provide some guidance, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Specifically, I'd like to know:

1. Besides drivers, what other components or software might need to be reinstalled after resetting my PC?
2. Are there any important steps or precautions I should be aware of during the reinstallation process?
3. Is there a particular order in which I should reinstall the drivers and other software?
4. Are there any recommended tools or resources that can help streamline the process?

I want to ensure that my PC is in its optimal state and performing at its best after the reset. I don't have any personal files I need from this PC so a full reset is what I'm planning on.

Thank you in advance for your support and expertise!

 

[rgd1101]

2) always do backup of your data

 

[edwardpawley221]

2) always do backup of your data

Yes I plan to, but I'm not sure specifically what to backup? I don't plan on keeping anything personal just system requirements.

 

[PEnns]

The most important thing to back up is your own data. Look where you store it (some people store stuff in Documents, for example). Look at all the folders where you keep your data and back it up.

Always a good idea to go to your C drive, look under Users and find your user name folder. Open this folder and have a look, there are folders and data there that may also need to be backed up.

All other applications don't need to be backed up, it's better to reinstall. Just grab screen shots of Program Files and Program Files (x86) so you have an idea what apps you need to reinstall.