When installing Windows 11 in UTM, some users encounter a prompt warning that “all your files will be deleted.” Understandably, this raises concerns, especially for those who don’t want to lose their existing data. If you decide to select the “Previous Version of Setup” option instead, you might wonder: Will this option also delete all your files? In this article, we’ll clarify what happens during this step and provide guidance on how to proceed without risking your data.
Understanding the Installation Process
Windows 11 installations, even in a virtualized environment like UTM, involve overwriting data on the designated virtual disk. Here’s what each option typically means:
- Fresh Installation: This overwrites the virtual disk and deletes all existing files, effectively creating a clean environment.
- “Previous Version of Setup”: This allows you to roll back to a previous version of the installer or repair an existing Windows installation. While it doesn’t format the disk outright, changes to the setup process could still affect your files.
Does “Previous Version of Setup” Delete Files?
The “Previous Version of Setup” option generally does not delete your files outright but has the potential to modify the current setup, which can result in unintended changes or file loss. Here’s how it works:
- If the virtual disk already has a partially installed Windows environment, this option will attempt to repair or continue that installation.
- However, if the setup process requires reinitializing the disk, files may still be lost.
- If you’re running the installer for the first time, this option will behave similarly to a fresh installation and erase everything on the virtual disk.
Recommendation:
To avoid accidental file loss, it’s best to back up any important data before proceeding with either installation option, even within a virtual machine environment.
Steps to Safeguard Your Files
Here’s how to ensure your data remains intact during the Windows 11 installation process in UTM:
1. Back Up Existing Files
Before proceeding with the installation, back up your files from the virtual machine to your host system. You can do this by:
- Mounting a shared folder between your host and the VM and copying files to your host machine.
- Exporting the entire VM as a backup using UTM’s export feature.
2. Choose the Correct Installation Option
During the installation process:
- If you’re prompted with the message “all your files will be deleted,” this applies to the virtual disk designated for Windows installation.
- To retain your data, ensure you select the Repair or Upgrade option rather than a clean installation.
3. Use a Separate Virtual Disk
For installations that require starting over, you can add a new virtual disk to the UTM VM and use it exclusively for the fresh installation. This will preserve the existing data on your old virtual disk, which can be mounted later for access.
4. Verify Disk Configuration in UTM
Before starting the installation, double-check your VM’s disk configuration:
- Open UTM and go to the settings for your Windows 11 VM.
- Ensure that the virtual disk containing your files is not selected as the primary installation target.
5. Pause and Confirm Before Proceeding
If you see any warnings about file deletion, take a moment to confirm that you’ve backed up important data and selected the correct disk or option before proceeding with the installation.
Conclusion
The “Previous Version of Setup” option in the Windows 11 installer is intended to repair or continue an existing installation, but it’s not guaranteed to preserve your files. To safeguard your data, always back up your files and verify your installation options before proceeding. For more detailed steps, watch the full YouTube tutorial on installing Windows 11 in UTM. By taking these precautions, you can complete your installation with confidence and avoid accidental file loss.