Other than media, what do I need to back up before doing a reset

[Jack413]

Earlier I posted about couple issues I have been having and got me thinking of just doing a reset so I can start fresh without the issues if that does fix it. However doing a reset means all my data is gone so I need to back it up. The issue is I can't just backup everything on my computer, not only will I loose time, but I will have junk I dont need on my backup drive.

One issue I have is I do not have my computer organized so finding everything can take a while & I might miss something. Another is that I might already have backed up some files and will have duplicates.

So what I need to know is what to backup outside of media such as photos or videos. Do I need to back up any system files & after its all set and done, how to I put everything backed up, ok maybe not everything, so I can begin to reinstall programs & update once I see issues are gone? Plus my computer has been sluggish from when I first got it 4 years ago.

I know it's a lot but these issues such as updates not finishing installing and my computer resetting on its own is causing me stress & i need it gone.

[WAWood]

@Jack413 

There is no need to back up any of the Windows system file because those would all be replaced by a reset.

But, and this is important, you can NOT backup any applications.  You will have to reinstall those after the reset.

If you look online for an app known as CloneApp, the claims are that can be used to backup your Settings.

As to personal data, you will simply have to hunt around for all of it and back that up to a USB stick or external drive.

Also, follow these instructions to back up the HP drivers already installed:  https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/68426-backup-restore-device-drivers-windows-10-a.html

That said, a reset is probably NOT going to fix the PC if is is sluggish -- as that is nearly always due to a failing drive.

So, let's check that first, because if it is failing, it would need to be replaced and there is no point then in doing anything else until we confirm that.

If your PC is new enough to support UEFI, you can use these steps to test the hard drive: http://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c00439024

If not, to check the drive you have to follow these steps:
1) Press Esc key repeatedly, several times a second, while rebooting the laptop. Do NOT hold the key down, just press it over and over.
2) Eventually, you will see an HP Startup Menu
3) Press the Function key for testing the hard drive (usually F2) and let it run.
If the drive checks out OK, then report that and I can provide you options for reinstalling Windows on your PC.