Microsoft is planning to add the ability to reinstall the system without deleting user files to Windows 11, according to Windows Latest. To do this, a new item called “Fix Problems using Windows Update” will be added to the Recovery menu. The new feature is intended to simplify and replace local reinstallation of Windows 11 by creating a system image on removable media.

Such a reinstallation may be necessary to solve critical system problems that cannot be fixed by other means, but it can be quite time-consuming and difficult for most users. In addition, its use is associated with the fear of losing all programs, files, and settings, so Microsoft wants to provide users with a simple and secure tool for reinstalling Windows 11.

Microsoft is already testing this feature in the beta channel, and it can be found in the Settings > System > Recovery section.

“This operation reinstalls the OS that you have and will not remove any files, settings, or apps. Devices may need to complete in progress updates prior to this process taking effect,” Microsoft says, but does not say when the new tool will become available to users.

Apparently, it may be included in the system as early as February-March 2024 as part of the Windows 11 Moment 5 update.