What is a key advantage of upgrading an OS rather than performing a clean install?

Upgrading an operating system offers several advantages, and one of the key benefits is the faster setup time with existing configurations. When an upgrade is performed, the current settings, user profiles, applications, and data remain intact. This means that, after the upgrade, the user can quickly resume their work environment without needing to set up everything from scratch.

This contrasts with a clean install, where the system is wiped, requiring a significant amount of time to reinstall operating systems, applications, and transfer files back from backups. The upgrade process allows users to maintain their previous configurations and reverts to a functional state more quickly than starting anew.

In terms of the other answer choices, complete data loss is not a benefit of upgrading; rather, it is a concern associated with a clean install. While upgrading may require less backup compared to a clean install, it does not completely eliminate the need for a backup strategy. Additionally, while an upgrade may streamline some aspects of application management, the need for reinstallation can depend on compatibility rather than being entirely negated. Overall, the key advantage of an upgrade lies in the continuity provided, allowing users to transition smoothly to a new OS version while retaining their established environment.