How well does the reinstall option work?

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Ardems

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Jan 23, 2013
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I need to do a clean install of windows 8 on the machine I already have it on and was wondering if this option works as well as formatting my HDD and installing the OS all over again.
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dodger46

OK, same here, though it won't be quite 'Factory Settings' if you don't have a W8 Recovery Partition, it will ask for your Installation Media and install basic Windows having removed all your personal data and software, which may well suit you? Meanwhile I'd be surprised if your Upgrade version doesn't activate using the...
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Ardems

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Jan 23, 2013
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Well I know what it says it will do, just wondering if anyone knows if it works better than formatting and installing 8 again. Reinstalling 8 is kind of a pain since I got the upgrade version, I have to install windows 7 again before I can actually start the installation of 8.
 
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dodger46

dodger46

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Nov 19, 2011
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Actually, no, you can clean install W8 if that is what you prefer, just boot to your Installation Media, use Drive Options (Advanced) to delete old Windows Partitions and install to Unallocated Space. As you've already activated W8 on this machine it will automatically re-activate.
However, the option to Restore your machine to Factory using the Recovery Partition will do exactly as it says, and restore everything including drivers/bloatware etcetera. (which is why some refer to do a clean install!) BUT I'm wondering if that option will restore your original OS from the Recovery partition, rather than perform a full Windows 8 Reset...
 
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dodger46

dodger46

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How exactly did you arrive at that Option? Reset your PC from the W8 interface doesn't mention Factory Settings as an option, just all personal data will be removed and PC back to original settings. Did you use an F key to access your Recovery Partition?
 
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Ardems

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Jan 23, 2013
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Ah, didn't know that this worked. I've tried this before but it just puts me into the trial state of windows 8, for my version to be activated and started there has to be another OS on my HDD before I start the installation.
 
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Ardems

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Jan 23, 2013
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It's just in the general tab of PC settings for me, didn't have to look anywhere special. It's right under refresh your PC without affecting your files.
 
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dodger46

dodger46

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Nov 19, 2011
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OK, same here, though it won't be quite 'Factory Settings' if you don't have a W8 Recovery Partition, it will ask for your Installation Media and install basic Windows having removed all your personal data and software, which may well suit you? Meanwhile I'd be surprised if your Upgrade version doesn't activate using the Refresh method...it has worked every time for me using off-the-shelf W8 Pro Upgrade Disks..

 
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