How to perform an In-Place Dist Upgrade on Windows 7 (Due to Failed updates)

[dugadugadid]

I read online that a In-Place Dist Upgrade of Windows 7 is possible and a better option than doing a "repair" install.  How do I do this and what are the benefits over a repair install?

[dugadugadid]

Looks like I spoke too soon, just came across this: https://www.pcworld.com/article/243190/how_to_repair_a_corrupt_windows_7_installation.html?page=2

[dugadugadid]

If I do an in-place dist upgrade with the option (install updates) enabled, will I have the option to uninstall unwanted updates later or do these become an embedded part of the system? There are over a dozen telemetry updates that I do not want included in my installation. 

The list, for example: https://superuser.com/questions/972501/how-to-stop-microsoft-from-gathering-telemetry-data-from-windows-7-8-and-8-1#972506
and importantly: https://www.ghacks.net/2016/09/12/ancile-block-spying-on-windows-7-and-8/

Thanks

[Boggin]

I'd leave that option to include updates and when it has completed, you will be prompted at some time they are ready to download.

Go to Windows Update and change your settings to Check for but let me choose then click on Important and uncheck the box to deselect all of them and just install a few at a time, after vetting them by right clicking on those you don't want and select Hide.

Click on OK then go into Optional and uncheck the box to deselect all of those while you install the important ones and then you can vet those when done.

I usually Ethernet connect for updates so that I get max download speed.