Windows 11/10: Restore Factory Settings While Keeping Your Files Safe with 'Reset This PC'

Table of Contents

When your Windows 11 or Windows 10 operating system starts experiencing problems and is no longer performing optimally, a powerful built-in feature called “Reset this PC” can help restore its functionality. This feature allows you to effectively perform a refresh or a factory reset of your operating system installation. Crucially, depending on the option you choose, you can do this without losing your valuable personal files and data. It’s a significant step for troubleshooting persistent system issues that might not be resolved by simpler fixes.

Using the “Reset this PC” function can resolve many common operating system problems. These include slowdowns, crashes, errors, and instability. Rather than performing a complete, clean installation of Windows from scratch, which requires backing up and restoring all your data and reinstalling all applications manually, the reset feature streamlines the process. It aims to provide a fresh start for the operating system files and settings while minimizing disruption to your personal environment.

Before initiating a reset, it’s prudent to try less drastic troubleshooting steps. These might include running system file checker, checking for Windows updates, updating drivers, or uninstalling recently installed software that might be causing conflicts. However, if these steps fail to resolve the issues, “Reset this PC” becomes a very viable and often effective solution to get your computer running smoothly again. It essentially replaces the core Windows system files with a fresh copy, offering a clean slate for the operating system itself.

How to Reset Your PC in Windows 11¶

Resetting your Windows 11 PC is a straightforward process designed to fix system issues by restoring Windows to a clean state. This can often resolve performance problems or errors that are difficult to diagnose otherwise. The “Reset this PC” option is easily accessible through the Windows Settings application. It provides clear choices regarding whether you wish to keep your personal files or remove everything for a completely fresh start.

The process involves navigating through the system settings to the recovery options. From there, you initiate the reset utility, which guides you through the necessary steps. You will be presented with important decisions regarding file retention and how the new Windows installation should be sourced (e.g., local reinstall or cloud download, although the latter might be presented differently depending on updates). Following the on-screen instructions carefully is essential to ensure the process completes successfully and achieves your desired outcome.

Here is a step-by-step guide to using the Reset this PC feature in Windows 11:

1. Begin by opening the Settings application. The quickest way to do this is by pressing the Windows key + I simultaneously on your keyboard. This keyboard shortcut directly launches the Settings window, saving you time searching for it in the Start menu.
2. In the Settings panel, locate and select the Windows Update option. This is typically found in the left-hand navigation pane of the Settings window. Clicking on it will take you to the Windows Update section where you can manage updates and access related system recovery options.
3. Within the Windows Update section, look for and click on Advanced options. This link usually appears below the main update status area. Accessing advanced options opens up more detailed settings related to updates and system recovery.
4. On the Advanced options screen, you may need to scroll down to find the Additional options section. Under this section, you will see various tiles or links for system utilities. Click on the Recovery option. This specifically relates to options for restoring or reinstalling Windows.
5. Under the Recovery options section, you will find the Reset this PC button. Clicking this button will launch the Reset this PC utility interface. This is the starting point for the reset process, where you will make key decisions about how the reset should proceed.

Once you click the “Reset this PC” button, the utility will launch and present you with crucial options. These options determine what happens to your personal data and applications during the reset. Understanding these choices is vital before proceeding, as they have a direct impact on the outcome of the reset process.

The two primary options you will encounter are:

• Keep my files: Selecting this option is ideal if your goal is to fix system issues without losing your personal documents, photos, videos, and other files. When you choose “Keep my files,” the reset process will remove all installed applications and programs (except those that came pre-installed with Windows), as well as system settings that you have changed. However, it will make an effort to preserve your personal files located in your user profile folders (like Documents, Pictures, Downloads, etc.). This is often the preferred option when troubleshooting problems while wanting to minimize data loss. Windows will typically provide a list of applications that will be removed before the process begins, and may even save this list as a file on your desktop after the reset for your reference.
• Remove everything: This option performs a more thorough reset, essentially bringing your computer back to a state very close to how it was when Windows was first installed. If you select “Remove everything,” Windows will delete all your personal files, applications, and settings. This is useful if you are selling or giving away your computer, or if you want a completely fresh start to eliminate any potential data corruption or conflicts. After selecting this, you might be given further choices on whether to clean the drives more thoroughly (which makes recovering data more difficult) or just perform a quick file removal.

After making your selection (“Keep my files” or “Remove everything”), the utility will prepare for the reset. This preparation phase might take a few minutes. You will then see a summary screen outlining what will happen based on your choice. For example, if you chose “Keep my files,” it will list the apps that are about to be removed. Review this information carefully.

The process may also warn you if you recently upgraded to Windows 11, stating that resetting will prevent you from going back to the previous version of Windows. This is an important consideration if you were planning to potentially revert your upgrade.

Finally, you will be presented with a confirmation screen. Clicking the Reset button on this screen will initiate the actual reset process. Once started, the reset cannot be easily stopped or undone. Your computer will restart multiple times during the process, and it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour to complete, depending on your system speed and the options chosen. Ensure your laptop is plugged into a power source to prevent interruption during the reset.

How to Reset Your PC in Windows 10¶

The process for resetting your PC in Windows 10 is very similar to that in Windows 11, although the navigation path through the Settings app differs slightly. The “Reset this PC” feature serves the same purpose: to help you fix problems with your Windows 10 installation by restoring it to a clean state while giving you the option to keep your personal files. It’s an invaluable tool for resolving persistent system instability or errors without the need for a complete manual reinstallation.

Much like Windows 11, resetting in Windows 10 involves accessing system recovery options via the Settings application. The steps guide you through selecting the type of reset you need – one that preserves your files or one that removes everything. Understanding what each option entails is crucial for achieving the desired outcome and protecting your data.

Here are the steps to perform a reset on your Windows 10 PC:

1. Open the Settings application. You can do this by clicking the Start button and selecting the gear icon, or by pressing the Windows key + I shortcut, which works in both Windows 10 and 11.
2. In the Settings window, click on the Update & security tile. This section contains settings related to Windows Update, security, backup, and recovery options.
3. In the left-hand pane of the Update & security window, select Recovery. This will display various recovery-related options in the right pane, including options for advanced startup, going back to a previous version, and the “Reset this PC” feature.
4. In the right-hand pane, under the “Reset this PC” section, click on the Get started button. This button launches the Reset this PC utility, which is the same interface used in Windows 11 for guiding you through the reset process.

Upon clicking “Get started,” the same two core options for resetting your PC will appear as in Windows 11:

• Keep my files: Choosing this option will reinstall Windows 10, remove your installed applications and programs (those not originally included), and reset system settings to their defaults. Your personal files and data, such as documents, pictures, music, and videos, stored in your user folders are intended to be preserved. This is the go-to option when you need to fix Windows problems but want to avoid the hassle of backing up and restoring all your personal data.
• Remove everything: This option performs a clean reset, deleting all personal files, applications, and settings. It’s the most thorough reset option, suitable for situations where you want to wipe the slate clean or prepare the PC for a new user. If you select this, Windows will give you further choices on how completely the data should be removed (just remove files or remove files and clean the drive). Cleaning the drive is more secure if you are disposing of the computer, but it takes significantly longer.

After you select either “Keep my files” or “Remove everything,” Windows 10 will spend a few moments getting things ready for the reset process. This preparation phase involves gathering necessary files and confirming the selected options.

Similar to Windows 11, before the reset commences, you will typically see a screen listing the applications that will be removed during the process. This list can be saved to your desktop for later reference after the reset is complete. You might also see warnings, such as if you recently upgraded to Windows 10, notifying you that resetting will prevent you from rolling back to the previous OS.

Finally, you will reach a readiness screen. Review the summary of what will happen. Clicking the Reset button will start the reset operation. Ensure your computer is connected to a power source, especially if it’s a laptop, as the process can take a considerable amount of time and involve multiple restarts. Once the reset begins, it is difficult to interrupt safely.

Comparison of Reset Options¶

Understanding the difference between the “Keep my files” and “Remove everything” options is critical when using the “Reset this PC” feature. While both options reinstall the Windows operating system, their impact on your data and installed programs differs significantly.

Here is a comparison of the two reset options available in Windows 11 and Windows 10:

Feature	Keep my files	Remove everything
Personal Files	Preserved (e.g., Documents, Pictures, Downloads)	Removed
Installed Apps	Removed (except pre-installed ones)	Removed
System Settings	Reset to defaults	Reset to defaults
User Accounts	Typically kept	Removed (requires setting up during initial Windows setup)
Purpose	Fix OS issues while retaining personal data	Clean slate, prepare for new user, resolve deep-seated corruption
Time Taken	Generally faster	Can take longer, especially with ‘clean the drive’ option
Reinstallation Source	Uses existing system files or requires download/media	Uses existing system files or requires download/media
Data Recovery	Data remains on drive (intended)	Data removed, harder to recover (especially with cleaning)

Choosing the right option depends entirely on your objective. If you simply want to resolve system problems without losing your personal information, “Keep my files” is the appropriate choice. If you want a completely fresh installation, perhaps to improve performance drastically or before transferring ownership, “Remove everything” is necessary.

Important Preparations Before Resetting¶

While the “Reset this PC” feature is designed to be relatively straightforward, especially the “Keep my files” option, it is still a significant system operation. Taking a few precautionary steps before initiating the reset can prevent potential issues and ensure a smoother experience. Being prepared is key to mitigating risks associated with system changes.

Here are some important preparations you should consider before resetting your Windows PC:

• Back Up Your Data: Even if you select the “Keep my files” option, it is highly recommended to back up your critical personal data to an external drive, cloud storage, or another computer. While “Keep my files” aims to preserve your data, unforeseen issues during the reset process, though rare, could potentially affect your files. Having a recent backup provides peace of mind and is your best defense against data loss. Copy important documents, photos, videos, music, and any other files you cannot afford to lose.
• Ensure Adequate Power: If you are resetting a laptop, make absolutely certain it is plugged into a reliable power source. The reset process can take a long time and involve multiple restarts. Running out of battery power during the reset could potentially corrupt the operating system installation and lead to bigger problems, possibly requiring a full manual reinstallation.
• List Installed Applications: If you choose the “Keep my files” option, remember that your installed applications (except those pre-installed) will be removed. It is a good idea to make a list of the programs you want to reinstall afterward. You can often find this list in the Control Panel under “Programs and Features” or in Settings under “Apps > Apps & features.” Windows may also save a list of removed apps to your desktop after the reset, but having your own list beforehand can be helpful.
• Locate Installation Media/Product Keys: While a standard “Reset this PC” often doesn’t require external installation media or your product key if Windows was previously activated, it is wise to have them accessible just in case. For example, if the reset encounters a severe issue, you might need to perform a clean install using a USB drive, which would require installation media and possibly your key. Similarly, gather product keys or login information for important software you will need to reinstall.
• Disconnect Non-Essential Peripherals: To avoid potential conflicts, disconnect any non-essential external devices like printers, scanners, or external hard drives (unless you are using one for backup) before starting the reset. Keep only the essential devices connected (monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power).

Taking these steps can significantly reduce the stress and potential complications associated with resetting your PC, allowing the process to run more smoothly and ensuring your data is safe.

What Happens During and After the Reset¶

When you initiate the “Reset this PC” process, several things occur behind the scenes to restore your operating system. Understanding this can help manage expectations during the potentially lengthy procedure. The computer will enter a recovery mode, perform the necessary operations, and then configure the freshly reset Windows environment.

During the reset, Windows replaces its core system files with a clean set, similar to a fresh installation. If you chose “Keep my files,” it will attempt to identify and preserve your personal files. If you chose “Remove everything,” it will proceed to delete all user data. The process then reinstalls default applications and drivers that originally came with your PC. Any applications, drivers, or programs you installed yourself after acquiring the PC will be removed, regardless of the “Keep my files” setting. System settings will be reverted to their default configurations.

The computer will restart multiple times during this process. You will see progress indicators on the screen. It is important not to interrupt the process once it has started by forcing a shutdown, as this can lead to system corruption.

After the reset is complete, your computer will boot into a setup experience similar to setting up a new Windows PC, although it might skip certain steps if you chose “Keep my files” (e.g., setting up a user account). You will need to go through initial configuration steps, such as connecting to a network, reviewing privacy settings, and potentially logging back into your Microsoft account.

Once you reach the desktop, you will notice that your custom settings are gone, and the desktop background, theme, and taskbar are back to default. If you chose “Keep my files,” your personal files should be present in your user folders. You will then need to reinstall any applications you need that were removed during the reset. If you chose “Remove everything,” your PC will be like it was out of the box, requiring you to set up user accounts and reinstall everything.

Troubleshooting Common Reset Issues¶

While the “Reset this PC” feature is generally reliable, you might occasionally encounter issues that prevent the reset from completing successfully or result in unexpected outcomes. Awareness of these potential problems and basic troubleshooting steps can be helpful. If the reset fails, don’t panic; there are often ways to address the issue.

Here are some common problems you might face and general approaches to troubleshooting them:

• “There was a problem resetting your PC” Message: This is a common error where the reset process fails to complete. Possible causes include corrupted recovery files, system errors, or issues with the Windows installation itself.
  • Troubleshooting: Try running the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM tools first (sfc /scannow in Command Prompt as admin, followed by DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth). If that doesn’t work, you might need to try resetting from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) accessed from outside the running OS (usually by restarting while holding Shift or from Advanced Startup options). In severe cases, using a Windows installation media (USB drive) to perform a repair or a clean install might be necessary.
• “Your PC has been reset, but we couldn’t remove all your personal files”: This message indicates that the reset completed, but some files that were supposed to be removed (if you chose “Remove everything”) were left behind.
  • Troubleshooting: This usually isn’t a critical error in terms of system functionality, but it means the drive wasn’t completely wiped. If you were preparing the PC for transfer, you might need to manually delete the remaining files or use a dedicated data wiping tool for sensitive information. For security, choosing the “clean the drive” option during the “Remove everything” reset is more effective.
• Reset This PC Option is Not Working or Missing: Sometimes, the “Get started” button or the entire “Reset this PC” section in Settings might be unresponsive or missing.
  • Troubleshooting: Ensure your Windows installation is up to date. Run the System File Checker and DISM tools as mentioned above, as corrupted system files can affect this feature. If the issue persists, accessing the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and trying to reset from there is often more successful, as WinRE operates outside the main Windows environment.
• PC Goes into a Boot Loop After Reset: The computer restarts repeatedly without reaching the desktop. This indicates that the reset process likely failed or resulted in a corrupt Windows installation.
  • Troubleshooting: This is a more serious issue. You will need to access the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) during startup (usually by interrupting the boot process multiple times or using a recovery drive). From WinRE, you can try Startup Repair, System Restore (if a restore point exists), or attempt the “Reset this PC” again. If those fail, you will likely need to perform a clean installation of Windows using installation media.

These troubleshooting steps are general guidelines. Dealing with system-level issues can be complex, and in some cases, seeking assistance from a qualified technician might be necessary. However, often these basic steps can help resolve common problems encountered during or after a reset.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)¶

Here are answers to some common questions regarding the “Reset this PC” feature:

Does factory resetting your computer delete everything?¶

No, using the term “factory resetting” can be misleading when discussing the “Reset this PC” feature in Windows 10 and 11. A true “factory reset” would typically revert the computer to the exact state it was in when it left the factory, including any manufacturer-installed software and partitions.

The “Reset this PC” feature, however, specifically deals with the Windows operating system installation itself. It puts the operating system and its included applications back into their original state. It removes applications, drivers, and programs that you installed yourself after you started using the PC. System settings are also restored to their defaults.

Crucially, the feature gives you the choice to either “Keep my files” or “Remove everything.” If you choose “Keep my files,” your personal documents, pictures, videos, etc., are not deleted. If you choose “Remove everything,” then yes, your personal files are deleted along with everything else. So, whether it “deletes everything” depends entirely on the option you select during the process.

How long does the reset process take?¶

The duration of the “Reset this PC” process can vary significantly depending on several factors:
* The speed of your computer’s hardware (CPU, RAM, storage type - SSDs are much faster than HDDs).
* The size and number of files being processed (especially if choosing “Keep my files”).
* The option you chose (“Remove everything” with the “clean the drive” option takes considerably longer).
* Whether the process needs to download files (e.g., using Cloud Download).

Generally, the process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or even longer. The “Remove everything” option with thorough drive cleaning could take several hours. It is best to allocate sufficient time and ensure the computer will not be needed urgently during the process.

Alternatives to Resetting¶

While “Reset this PC” is a powerful tool, it’s not the only way to address Windows problems. Depending on the nature of the issue, other options might be more suitable or less disruptive.

• System Restore: If the problem started recently, you can try using System Restore to revert your system files and settings to a previous point in time when the PC was working correctly. This does not affect your personal files.
• Uninstalling Recent Updates or Software: If a problem appeared after a specific Windows update or application installation, uninstalling that item might resolve the issue.
• Running SFC and DISM: As mentioned in troubleshooting, these command-line tools can scan for and repair corrupted Windows system files.
• Clean Installation: In cases of severe corruption or persistent issues that “Reset this PC” cannot fix, performing a completely clean installation of Windows from bootable USB media is the most drastic, but sometimes necessary, step for a fresh start. This option definitely removes everything.

Choosing the right approach depends on diagnosing the specific problem you are facing. However, for many common performance and stability issues, “Reset this PC” (especially with “Keep my files”) offers a good balance between effectiveness and convenience.

Restoring your Windows PC to factory settings using the “Reset this PC” feature is a valuable troubleshooting step for resolving performance issues and errors. By understanding the process, the available options, and taking necessary precautions, you can effectively refresh your operating system installation while keeping your personal data safe.

Have you used the “Reset this PC” feature before? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!