Re-format / Re-install ...?

Question

My PC is acting "funny". A friend suggested that I re-format my hard drive, but I'm concerned about re-installing all of my software; for most programs, I don't have a disc. Can I just copy my entire C: drive file for file to an external drive, and then copy it back?

Answer 1

No, most programs create registry entries and DLL links and a bunch of other stuff that cant just be copied back.  The short answer - that wouldnt work.

Answer 2

Depending on what the problem is you may be able to fix it without formatting everything.  

I would suggest you try to find out what is causing the problem and fix it, since you do not have the disks to reinstall your software.  If you describe your exact symptoms, I'm sure someone can help you here.

Answer 3

Your PC is acting "funny". What do you mean with that.

Does it wave or smile at you, Does it sing a lullaby before you go to sleep ??

I am asking this, because formating your pc is very very drastic and when you have no disc, it is very very difficult. Why don\t you tell what your pc exactly does. perhaps we can help you solve the problem without having to format it.  

Answer 4

No, copying your files back and forth will not work. And if you do manage to copy really everything, you'll end up with the same problems. The Windows (assuming your are running MS Windows) registry keeps track of application and user settings which will be gone when you simply copy files back and forth.

The reason behind the re-install is to get a completely fresh machine. So yeah, go hunt those discs and _do_ backup your files (like documents, images, music files etc) for they will all be gone after a format. Then format, reinstall the programs and copy your documents back to where they were.

It's not for the faint hearted ... I'd suggest to have that friend of yours help you through this.

Answer 5

go to start-all programs-accessories-system tools-files and transfer wizard. You can use this to copy all your files and setting to an external hard drive. then it will be safe to format the drive. Make sure you have the operating system disk with serial number.