Windows 10: Desktop went back to how it was four years ago, how do I restore it?

Last night I switched off my pc and the next morning it wouldnt start up. I had to turn it on 3 times and each time there was something about BIOS i couldnt really understand. When I finally got my pc up and running my desktop was back how it was in november 2019. All my new files and photos are still here but the desktop is full of old icons that are mostly blank with just names since ive deleted most of them since. This issue also runs a bit deeper since my browser got reset to internet explorer and all my accounts on chrome are gone. I tried to do a backup but it showed that it could only d

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Update restored to two years ago

Hi Andrew. I'm Greg, an installation specialist, 10 years awarded Windows MVP, and Volunteer Moderator. If you will work with me I will be here to help until the issue is resolved.

What is the version number in Settings > System > About?

What is the HomeScreen? Are you saying it has a Desktop background that you used 2 years ago?

Is it possible it signed you in to a Temporary account which Windows will do if your account is too corrupted to start? It should tell you this clearly so you can tell us.

So what do you see on the desktop? Are any of your files there?

How about in C:\Users. Do you see your old account? Are your files there? Copy them out now if so.

Report back what you find. I'll be standing by here to help you if you wait to choose whether my post resolved your problem.

 

Windows XP PRO error after restore

System restore is handy when it works like it did for me 2 days ago saving the need to reinstall all of my software as well as windows, id suggest using norton Ghost 12 for an excellent system restore feature.

 

Restoring Windows 10 Image using Macrium Reflect


In addition to the above. Here's my suggestion in step by step.
I assume you have Macrium Installed in your current HD and already made a backup copy.

1. Connect your new HD via USB port and boot up.
2. Run Macrium, click on Restore tab then select the Backup Image that you made to restore
3. click on "select a different target disk" then select your new HD as destination
   
   
   
4. Proceed to restore then Shutdown and disconnect the old HD and replace with the new HD
5. Boot up with your new HD.