Corrupted Windows OS

[bad at PCs]

Hello! 

 

TLDR; My OS is corrupted (many OS files untouchable, can't update, certain security features dont work) and wont repair/wipe/restore or whatever else is usually the way to fix, how do I get a clean install of windows onto a different drive? I'm worried I'll have to pay again.

 

The plan is to install a new OS onto a storage HDD along with all the files I want to keep, and wipe everything else, then format properly and move the OS back to the main M.2 SSD. 

 

What is the best partition/formatting software to assist with this?

 

Thank you for reading! 

 

Edit: If its the SSD thats failing how'd I diagnose & fix? 

 

[Mumintroll]

You shouldn't need to buy a license again. If it's bound to your Microsoft account you'll have to login to that again in the new installation and do the reactivation procedure. (If it is a Windows 10/11 you're running...)

 

If the SSD is failing you should get an app that you can view the SMART table. CrystalDiskInfo for example. Look for any errors and bad sectors.

Post a screenshot of the SMART table on that drive.

Also write your specs and what OS you're running.

[Needfuldoer]

Try creating a new user profile. I've seen Windows start acting funny when the local user profile gets corrupted.

 

You can check your SSD's health with the manufacturer's tool or a generic tool like CrystalDiskInfo.