Note: This guide is for users who want to fix common Windows 10 issues without losing files, apps, or settings.
🛠️ What Is a Repair Install?
A Repair Install (also known as an in-place upgrade) allows you to reinstall Windows 10 while keeping your personal files, installed applications, and system settings intact. It’s useful for fixing boot errors, update problems, corrupted system files, and more — all without a full format or reset.
📌 Prerequisites
✅ You’ll Need:
- A Windows 10 PC that needs repair
- A USB flash drive with at least 8GB of storage
- Stable internet connection
- Microsoft’s Media Creation Tool
🖼️ Step-by-Step Visual Guide (Example Image)
Overview of the Windows 10 Repair Install process.
🔧 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Download the Media Creation Tool
- Go to the official Microsoft page: Download Windows 10
- Click on “Download tool now” to get the Media Creation Tool
- Save the file and run it
🟢 Important: Always use the official Microsoft tool to ensure authenticity and avoid malware!
Step 2: Create a Bootable USB Drive
- Launch the Media Creation Tool
- Select “Create installation media (USB flash drive, DVD, or ISO file) for another PC”
- Choose your preferred language, edition, and architecture (64-bit or 32-bit)
- Insert your USB drive
- Click Next and wait for the tool to finish creating the bootable USB
🔴 Warning: This will erase all data on the USB drive. Make sure to back up any important files first!
Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive
- Plug the USB into the affected PC
- Restart the computer
- Enter the BIOS/UEFI setup (usually by pressing F2, F12, Del, or Esc during startup)
- Set the USB drive as the primary boot device
- Save changes and exit
🖼️ Example:
Step 4: Start the Installation Process
- Once the Windows Setup screen appears, click Install now
- Skip entering a product key (you can add it later if needed)
- Click I don’t have a product key (if necessary)
- Accept the license terms
- On the next screen, choose the option:
🟢 Upgrade: Keep personal files, apps, and settings
🔴 DO NOT select “Custom: Install only Windows (Advanced)” — this would erase everything!
Step 5: Wait for the Installation to Finish
- The system will begin installing and restart several times automatically
- Your desktop, documents, and apps should remain untouched
- After the final reboot, log in with your account
⏳ Estimated Time: 30–60 minutes depending on hardware speed
Step 6: Verify the System Integrity
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Run the following command to check for system file corruption:
sfc /scannow- Also consider running:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth🟢 Tip: These commands help ensure your system files are fully healthy after the repair install.
⚠️ Important Notes
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Personal Files | ✅ Preserved |
| Installed Apps | ✅ Preserved (some may need reactivation) |
| User Accounts & Settings | ✅ Mostly preserved |
| Drivers | ✅ Most will be kept; some may need updating |
| System Version | 🔄 Updated to the version on the USB |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I do a repair install without a USB drive?
A: Yes, you can also use a mounted ISO file or DVD, but a USB drive is the most common method.
Q: Will this remove my programs?
A: No, but some incompatible or outdated apps might not work properly afterward.
Q: Do I need a product key?
A: Not immediately — your Windows license is tied to your hardware or Microsoft account.
📬 Summary
Performing a Repair Install of Windows 10 using an In-place Upgrade is a powerful yet safe way to fix many system issues. It preserves your files, apps, and settings while refreshing the core operating system components.
🔧 This method is ideal for resolving system instability, update failures, and performance issues without starting over.
🔗 Related Links:
🔚 Good luck with your Windows 10 repair! Let us know if you hit any snags.