I'm considering factory resetting my Acer Nitro V15 ANV15-51 laptop, which currently has two SSDs: a 512 GB drive that came with Windows 11 and a 1 TB drive that I added for extra storage. I want to do a clean install of Windows to get rid of bloatware and unwanted pre-installed apps, but I'm concerned about my data. My plan is to move all my important files from the main SSD to the second SSD before proceeding. After the fresh installation, I would insert the secondary drive back in. Will I still have access to all my files on the secondary SSD? Are there any extra steps required, or should it just work normally? Basically, I just want to ensure that I won't lose anything important during this process.
3 Answers
Yes, if you're just referring to documents and media files, they should be perfectly fine on the secondary SSD after you reinstall Windows on the main one. Just remember that any installed programs or games on the secondary drive will need to be reinstalled on your fresh Windows. I recommend using the Microsoft Windows Media Creation Tool for the installation process; it's straightforward and works well for a clean install. Also, just to be extra cautious, consider backing up any critical files to a USB drive before you start, just in case!
Right! And once you put the secondary SSD back, it should just show up in Windows. You can easily redirect any apps back to it, like Steam. Just keep an eye on which drive is which when reinstalling.
It's wise that you're planning to move your files first. If the secondary SSD wasn't a boot drive, then inserting it back after a fresh install usually doesn't cause issues. Just remember, any software or game installations will need to be done again. Wiping the main drive will just affect what's there, so your photos, documents, and similar files on the second drive will still be intact as long as you don’t format it. It's always best practice to double-check your backups, though!
Totally agree! You might also want to consider creating a new partition on that second drive if you haven't already. It might help with organization after you reinstall everything.
Sure! Just be cautious during the installation process to avoid accidentally losing data on the secondary SSD. As long as you're careful, everything should be fine!
If the secondary SSD was your boot drive in any scenario, you could face issues. But like you planned, moving your files is a smart choice. Just remember to wipe the main drive and set everything back up afterward.
Exactly! A backup is a good move. Just to clarify, when you reinstall Windows, as long as you don't format the secondary drive, you shouldn't lose access to your files. Just make sure to handle the drives carefully during the process.