Reset this PC reinstalls Windows 11 and clears many software problems in one move. You can keep personal files or remove everything for a fresh start.
This applies to Windows 11 PCs and laptops using the built-in reset feature. Back up important files before starting.
Does This Affect You?
A reset is useful when Windows is slow, cluttered, broken, or not worth troubleshooting one setting at a time. It is not a replacement for hardware repair if the drive, memory, or other parts are failing.
Reset from Settings
- Back up important files to an external drive, USB drive, or cloud service.
- Open Settings > System > Recovery.
- Next to Reset this PC, click Reset PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything. Choose Remove everything if selling or giving away the PC.
- Choose Cloud download for fresh Windows files or Local reinstall to use files already on the PC.
- Open Change settings if you want to clean the drive more thoroughly. This is slower but better before handing the PC to someone else.
- Review the summary and click Reset. Do not power off the PC while it restarts and reinstalls.
Reset from Recovery When Windows Will Not Start
- Turn the PC off and on, then interrupt startup by holding the power button. Repeat two or three times until recovery appears.
- Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
- Follow the prompts to reinstall Windows.
Before and After Reset
Cloud Download vs Local Reinstall
Cloud download uses a fresh copy from Microsoft and can help if local recovery files are damaged. Local reinstall is faster and does not require a large download.
What Reset Does Not Fix
A failing drive, bad RAM, overheating, or firmware-level malware can return after a reset. If the same symptoms come back immediately, check hardware.
Activation
Windows 11 normally reactivates automatically because the license is tied to hardware or your Microsoft account. Use Activation troubleshooter if it does not.
Reinstall Only What You Need
After reset, run Windows Update, check optional drivers, and reinstall only the apps you actually use.
Sources
- Microsoft Support: Recovery options in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Back up your Windows PC
- Microsoft Support: Create a recovery drive