Can I transfer the "windows" folder to another partition?

[Bangu]

Hey guys. Yesterday, my OS got corrupted. I reinstalled win7 on a different partition. I am wondering if there was any way I could repair the corrupt OS, or transfer the "windows" folder or something. Also. What is the best way to transfer programs? Is it possible I really do not want to download all of my games all over again.

 

[sminlal]

There isn't any easy way to "move" programs from one Windows installation to another, other than by reinstalling them.

This is why people do backups. I'd recommend that you reinstall everything and then use Windows backup (Start -> All Programs -> Maintenance -> Backup and Restore) to make a "System Image" backup of the OS drive.

 

[Bangu]

Hm. I have a "factory image" partition.. Is that a backup?

Can't I just move the windows folder? lol or repair it manually. Because On my "corrupt" install Its all still there, the windows folder everything.

 

[jefe323]

you can try a repair install if your os is corrupted or a complete reinstall

 

[Bangu]

I have already reinstalled it on another partition. So. you think I should reinstall it again on the same partition? I will try that, but are you sure It wont erase all my data on the corrupt os?

 

[jefe323]

reinstalling will erase everything on that partition, so make sure you back up everything you want save

 

[Ijack]

Can't I just move the windows folder? lol or repair it manually. Because On my "corrupt" install Its all still there, the windows folder everything.

No. All sorts of registery keys will be pointing to the original location. Move it to another drive and you will destroy your windows installation. (TBH, I doubt that Windows will let you move it, not that I've tried.)

 

[lazyperson17]

Hey guys. Yesterday, my OS got corrupted. I reinstalled win7 on a different partition. I am wondering if there was any way I could repair the corrupt OS, or transfer the "windows" folder or something. Also. What is the best way to transfer programs? Is it possible I really do not want to download all of my games all over again.

This is why its always good to keep installers stored away in a safe location If you still have them, put them somewhere safe. if its through Steam, then its really not that bad. Just tell it to download all and then leave it overnight.

 

[Bangu]

Danng. So there is no way to replace everything?

 

[jefe323]

files: yes
programs: no, not really

kinda sucks, but that is the reality

 

[Bangu]

Damnnnn! It took me forever to download world of warcraft! on my 70k/b wallmart connection <_<