Each time I reinstall windows 10 does, the data stored on the harddrive of the laptop

When you reinstall Windows 10, the treatment of the data on your hard drive depends on the method you choose for the installation. Here are the common scenarios: 1. **Keep Personal Files and Apps**: If during the installation process you choose the option to keep your personal files and apps, your data (like documents, photos, and installed programs) should remain intact. However, it's always good practice to back up your data before proceeding, just in case something goes wrong. 2. **Keep Personal Files Only**: This option will keep your personal files but remove installed apps and settings. Again, while your personal files should remain, backing up everything is advisable. 3. **Remove Everything**: If you choose the option to remove everything, all your personal files, apps, and settings will be deleted from the hard drive. This is essentially a clean installation and will erase all data. If you go this route, ensure that you have backups of anything you want to keep. 4. **Custom Install**: If you perform a custom installation (especially if you format the drive during the installation), all data on your hard drive will be lost. ### Recommendations - **Backup Your Data**: Regardless of the option you choose, always back up your important data to an external drive or cloud storage before reinstalling. - **Check Settings**: Pay attention to the installation prompts to ensure you select the option that aligns with your preferences regarding data retention. ### Summary In summary, the data stored on your hard drive may or may not be preserved based on the installation method you choose. Always back up before proceeding.