Windows 10 System Restore

Some years ago, I got a Win 7 system. I think it was XP Pro. Upgraded to 7. When Windows 10 offer made, I downloaded 10. Worked like a charm. Computer ran fine for years. Then, HD went down. The tech took his time. I got it back with Windows 7 OS. Now, trying to get key for Win 10 reinstall. Not getting any direction with online searches.

I did a Windows system backup just a month before the crash. I see it on System Restore. I want to know what experience people have had with restoring a restore point using Windows/MS. I am scared of it. Not worried about entering data since January. I am worried about losing nine (yes 9) years of data critical to the business, taxes, etc. Losing access to the data if the restore fails. Losing my past if there is a conflict with restoring the newer OS.

Any guidance? Experience? Special prayers that worked for someone?

 

Why not "clone" your drive to an external drive before you attempt the Restore? That way you will not lose your 9 years of data.

 

Your Win10 key would most probably stored with MS in cloud. Why don't you just install Win10 on a new drive & see ? I had also suffered a HDD malfunction in one of my computers & it got the key from the cloud. Didn't have to do anything.

 

I've used System Restore many times in the past - I can't remember whether it was W98 or XP after an update screw up. Never had to use Restore in W10, but always backup BEFORE in case there is a problem. Just make sure you follow ALL the procedure listed by MS. Once started - you cannot change your mind!!!

 

That's the one I'm trying to restore, a backup, not a clone. Backup has 9 years, not replacement HD.

 

I do not have W10 CD. Installed it based on promo from W7. W7 installed by computer tech/repairman. I have key posted somewhere for W10. Thanks.

 

What Is UEFI, and How Is It Different from BIOS?
Is this a possible problem in your setup?

 

You can always download the cd from Microsoft.

Download Windows 10 - MajorGeeks

Download Microsoft Windows ISO Download Tool - MajorGeeks

 

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/products/windows?os=windows-10
Should find all your answers in this link. There is a lot of info on W10 if you check through ALL expansions.