Possible to reinstall Vista without formatting?

malachi · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:10

I’ve just purchased an Asus motherboard to replace my Gigabyte one and I would like to reinstall Vista and keep all my setting/programs intact without formatting. I know this was possible with Windows 2000/Xp/2003 by using the repair option. But I haven’t found a way to do it with Vista.

Robert1986 · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:14

From what i understand, when you do a simple re-install with vista it creates a folder with all your old files. Thats what happend to me. The folder is called "windows 1" and is located in your local disck. Someone else can give a better reply.

deuse · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:23

I belive there is a repair option in Vista as well.

You will have to delete all traces of the mother board drivers or it may mess Vista up.

I would go for a clean install so you dont get any problems.

something daft already!! · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:26

If you clean install, the files are put in a folder called "windows.old"

Columbo · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:28

If its an OEM copy, that version of vista will be tied to your old Mobo if I'm right. Not sure if it actually checks that however.

Robert1986 · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:30

howiepoohs said:
If you clean install, the files are put in a folder called "windows.old"

Is there a way to do a clean install without old files put into that folder?

deuse · 20 Nov 2007 at 16:52

Robert1986 said:
Is there a way to do a clean install without old files put into that folder?

The only way i know is to format the partion you are putting Vista on.
There is a option for this.

You will lose everything but if you have new hardware its better.