will my computer be reformatted

[Dking25]

So i ordered Window 8.1 pro and i was just wondering, when i get the program and start to install it will it reformat my computer back to default setting?? i am guessing it will since its a new OS but i really don't know. P.S if it wont reformat will it give me the option to because i would like to in the end.

 

[kamehameha1]

If you have Windows 7, or 8, you should have the "Upgrade" option. If you're using Vista(Or Older), and/or Linux, you will only have the "Clean Install" option which will make your format your system, before installing the OS.

 

[bryonhowley]

Using a custom install from the boot disk you can choose to format the drive and install a clean OS should be no problem and is really the best way to do it anyway. Doing a upgrade install can cause problems in the end and I would not recommend it to anyone.

 

[USAFRet]

With any OS or major hardware change, have all of your personal stuff backed up elsewhere first.
Just in case.

Your Win 8.1 Pro will likely present you with a clean fresh OS install. All your applications need to be reinstalled. And any personal data need to be retrieved from wherever you saved it first.

I don't know whether you got an upgrade, or a full install....but always, always, always have any personal data elsewhere and offline first.
Things may be upgrading just fine....and then poof.. whole house power outage. Or the dog trips over the power cord. Or whatever. All is gone.

Never, ever count on an OS (or major hardware) change to preserve your critical stuff.