How to Remove Windows from a Hard Drive Without Formatting

Yes, you can remove Windows from a hard drive without formatting.

To delete OS from hard drive but keep files, there are two simple processes to go:

First, remove your Windows boot entry and all related system files.

Secondly, erase the old Windows folders from the hard drive. And then run the disk cleanup utility to eliminate any leftovers from the previously removed OS.

However, to protect your data from accidental deletion, it is highly advisable to perform a backup before proceeding with the removal of Windows. You risk losing your data if something goes wrong during the process. To backup files on hard drive easily, you can turn to AOMEI Backupper Standard for help.

This software is a highly practical and easy-to-use backup and recovery solution. It allows you to create entire disk backups, as well as individual file backups. You can backup files to external hard drive, NAS, network drive, and other devices, and it can also help you create system backup in case of accidental deletion or system failures. Moreover, you create Windows recovery disk to reinstall Windows or fix OS errors effortlessly.