Will a new Windows install wipe the entire HDD?

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aaronb1874

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Sep 28, 2013
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Recently I got a new motherboard and processor. Im upgrading from an AMD 8320 to an Intel 6600k, as the 8320 burnt out after 5 years of use. I dont have a desktop currently, so theres no way i can pull the data off of it. I do have a laptop however and am considering a SATA to USB. Not the point though. When I get the new processor and motherboard, will i have to wipe the drive? And if so, can I only wipe the C drive, as i have the disk partitioned? Or will I have to wipe the entire HDD?
 
Solution
mjslakeridge
If you are worried about a new Windows install deleting your data, that implies that you don't have that data backed up to another place (external drive, cloud, etc.) You will want to get the important stuff backed up regardless of whether you can safely leave the data partition intact when installing the new OS.

Look into a docking station to transfer the data to your laptop before installing the OS just to be safe.
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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Bit confused here.
AMD to Intel, but you don't have a desktop?
What does the laptop have to do with anything?

More detail, please.
 
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A

aaronb1874

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Sep 28, 2013
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Damn mobile version of Tomshardware is a pain so i cant respond directly but what i mean is that my AMD 8320 died on me, so i no longer have a functioning desktop to use until my 6600k arrives. I pulled out the HDD windows is on, and im wondering if i have to take the data off of it before i reinstall windows so i dont lose whats on one of the partitions or does the windows instlal tool detect that there are different partitions i can install on?
 
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mjslakeridge

mjslakeridge

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Mar 6, 2013
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If you are worried about a new Windows install deleting your data, that implies that you don't have that data backed up to another place (external drive, cloud, etc.) You will want to get the important stuff backed up regardless of whether you can safely leave the data partition intact when installing the new OS.

Look into a docking station to transfer the data to your laptop before installing the OS just to be safe.
 
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Solution
USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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If you make the exact right selections, no, it won't wipe anything except the "C".

However...with any major change, hardware or software....you really, really need a fall back position.
The number of threads in here that start with "oops..."
One wrong click, all is gone.
 
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