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Cloud Download vs Local Reinstall: What’s the Difference?
Learn the differences and then opt for the suitable option
6 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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If you come across any issues with your Windows PC, then the most common solution to fix this issue that you will get suggested is toreset the Windows OS.
There are two ways to do that, i.e., Cloud download and Local reinstall. In this guide, we will share with you all the details between Cloud download vs Local reinstall. Let us check out the guide.
The differences: Cloud download vs Local reinstall
Let us first understand the differences between Cloud download vs Local reinstall and then go onto the details.
Cloud download
When you choose to install the Windows OS via Cloud download, you are basically downloading the files from the official Microsoft servers.
Cloud storage allows the user to securely save their files over the cloud and download them whenever needed. So, this could be handy when you are running out of space. All you need to have is an internet connection.
However, do note that when you do Cloud download, the size of the file that you are downloading may vary and can go up to several gigabytes.
Here, you need to ensure that your internet connection is strong, and you have a data pack supporting the file size that you are downloading.
Moreover, when we talk about installing Windows OS, Cloud download can be a good option in case the PC system files go corrupt, and you have to freshly install them from the cloud.
Local reinstall
When you choose the Local reinstall option, you are essentially using the local files stored in your PC for the purpose.
In the case of Windows reset, you are using the files stored on your PC for the reset process. Windows has to make a bit more work when you select Local reinstall.
Notably, the Windows OS will have to locate the files from the PC and then reassemble them to install a fresh Windows system.
According to Microsoft’s official, the Local reinstall process will take more than 45 minutes to build a new copy of Windows from the existing installation.
This method comes in handy when you are running on a limited data plan or where internet connectivity is unavailable. Moreover, it will keep the latest Windows update that you have installed preserved even after the reset.
Where do I get the Cloud download and Local reinstall options?
Do note that the options of Cloud download and Local reinstall are only available on Windows 10 20H1 and later versions. You won’t find them in previous versions.
Pros and Cons: Cloud download vs Local reinstall
Let us now understand the pros and cons of Cloud download vs Local reinstall in some points to give you some better clarity on which option to choose between the two.
Cloud download
Local reinstall
Which one to choose? Cloud download vs Local reinstall
For a typical PC, going ahead with either Cloud download or Local reinstall will work. However, there are certain situations where you might have to specifically choose from each other.
So, basically, the choice between Cloud download vs Local reinstall totally depends on you. Whichever scenario suits you better, you can go for that option.
Moreover, if the Local reinstall doesn’t work, then you should not worry, as your system won’t continue the installation with corrupt system files. If the reset process is completed, then there were no issues with the files.
That is it from us in this guide. You should check out our guide that explains2 easy steps to reinstall Windows 11on your PC.
To safeguard your PC, you should always keep at least Windows Security enabled on it. We have a guide that explains how you canreinstall Windows Security, in case you come across an issue with it.
Feel free to drop a comment below and let us know if you learnt something about Cloud download vs Local reinstall in this guide.
More about the topics:PC Reset
Sagar Naresh
Sagar is a web developer and technology journalist. Currently associated with WindowsReport and SamMobile. When not writing, he is either at the gym sweating it out or playing country music on his guitar.
He is an avid traveler and has been to 15 countries, going to more places soon. TRAVEL and WORK is his mantra for a peaceful life.
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