Question about W10 clean install

mwddrwg

Hi all,


Have a laptop which is painfully slow since upgrading to W10 from W7 in some things like opening File Explorer and saving documents so was hoping a clean install would do the trick.


HD is in 2 partitions, C: and , where C: holds the OS and app data and d: holds my files, pics, docs, etc.


When reinstalling W10, is it OK to format C: only so that the data in remains or do I need to format the whole thing? Data will be backed up regardless but just thought I'd spare some time if I can get away with wiping C: only.


Many thanks for any help

NiftyDigits

Just C: is fine.

Fightsback

If you have external storage then I'd suggest backing up the drive to that (eg external HDD) just to be on the safe side before you start just in case something goes wrong.

robmar0se

In my experience upgrades to W10 can be troublesome, especially on systems over 4 years old. Frequent culprit is the AV (must be latest version, I usually uninstall first), also ensure that system is cleaned and defragged before you start. Other causes can be driver software, not all manufacturers are making W10 software available (eg scanners/printers).

So a clean install on a wiped hdd is best, as previous poster said backing up yr personal stuff too. Then run any subsequent software/drivers, where there isn't specific W10 versions, in compatibility mode.

Good luck.

Fightsback

robmar0se wrote: »

In my experience upgrades..............

Add to that wifi, particularly centrino 2230 and sound.

grumpycrab

mwddrwg wrote: »

Have a laptop which is painfully slow since upgrading to W10 from W7...

Tried a refresh? (keeping data). You should still backup data (just in case) but it's a less aggressive reinstall.
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows-10/refresh-is-part-of-reset-in-windows-10

EDIT: also worth checking that the upgrade activated correctly when you upgraded... To check activation status in Windows 10, select the Start button, then select Settings > Update & security > Activation.