Returning your Windows 10 or 11 PC to its default settings with a factory reset can significantly boost performance, remove unwanted software, and provide a fresh start. This guide will walk you through the process of resetting both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Back Up Your Data
Before initiating a factory reset, backing up your important data is crucial. This includes documents, photos, music, and videos. Remember to save passwords, export browser bookmarks, and secure installation files for software you’ll want to reinstall. Don’t forget application-specific data like custom filters, game saves, and offline email data.
Resetting Windows 11
The Windows 11 factory reset process is similar to Windows 10.
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Open the Settings menu by pressing Windows + I. Select the Settings app with the gear icon.
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Choose Update & Security and then Recovery from the left-side menu.
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Select Reset this PC.
Windows 11 Reset Settings DigitalTrends
4. Choose between “Keep my files” or “Remove everything.” Select a reinstall method: “Cloud download” or “Local reinstall.”
- Review the chosen settings in the summary window and select Next. Finally, select Reset to begin the process.
After the reset, remember to configure your Windows security settings.
Resetting Windows 10
Windows 10’s reset feature, accessible through the settings panel, reinstalls a fresh copy of Windows, replacing drivers and resetting settings.
This may differ from manufacturer-provided “factory reset” options. Consult your documentation or contact technical support if you need to restore your PC to its out-of-box state using manufacturer-specific partitions or restore images.
- Open Settings by clicking the Notifications icon (or pressing Windows + A) and selecting All settings. Alternatively, select the Start button and then the gear icon.
Windows 10 All Settings Access DigitalTrends
2. Select Update & Security.
- Choose Recovery from the left-hand menu.
Windows 10 Recovery Options DigitalTrends
4. Click Get started under Reset this PC. The Advanced startup option offers deeper system modifications or alternative operating system installations. This can be useful for manufacturer-provided restore images. Proceed with caution unless you’re familiar with these advanced options.
- Choose between “Keep my files” (retains files and folders) or “Remove everything” (starts fresh). Both options necessitate reinstalling non-Microsoft Store apps and reset settings to defaults.
Choosing Reset Options in Windows 10 DigitalTrends
6. Select a source: Cloud download (latest version) or Local reinstall (current installation).
Choosing Reinstall Source DigitalTrends
7. Optionally, click Change settings to customize the reset process (e.g., deleting files from all drives, restoring preinstalled apps). Skip to Step 9 if not altering settings.
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Toggle the desired settings and select Confirm.
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Select Next.
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Review the summary. If using “Keep my files,” a link will show removed apps (saved to the desktop post-reset). Select Reset.
The PC will reboot into the Windows Recovery Environment. The process can take over an hour; ensure laptops are plugged in. After multiple reboots, Windows will restart and begin setup. Enter your information when prompted. After setup, update Windows and install the latest drivers.
Manufacturer Recovery Tools
Another reset method involves the manufacturer’s recovery tool, usually on a separate hard drive partition. Each manufacturer uses different names:
- Acer: Acer eRecovery or Acer Recovery Management
- Asus: Asus Recovery Partition or AI Recovery
- Dell: Dell Factory Image Restore, DataSafe, Dell Backup & Recovery, and others
- HP: HP System Recovery or Recovery Manager
- Lenovo: Rescue and Recovery or ThinkVantage Recovery (ThinkPads)
These tools are often accessible outside of Windows, even if the OS won’t load. Check your device’s documentation for the specific key to access recovery mode during boot-up (often F11).
Factory Reset FAQ
Is a factory reset the best way to speed up Windows?
While a factory reset can improve performance, consider exploring Windows speed optimization tips first. Sometimes, a fresh start is the most effective solution.
Does a factory reset remove Windows?
No. A factory reset restores the system to its original state with a basic Windows installation. You’ll need to reinstall applications and potentially restore data. It’s not a full format, but reinstalls a fresh Windows version.
How do you completely wipe and reinstall Windows?
A factory reset reinstalls Windows and removes unnecessary data and applications. For complete data eradication, use methods like zero-filling, described in SSD formatting guides. A factory reset may not completely remove all old data.
