How to factory reset Windows 11
If your Windows 11 PC is running slowly, has repeated errors, or you want to start fresh before selling it, a factory reset can help. This guide shows you how to reset Windows 11 using the built-in recovery options and explains the choices you’ll see along the way. You can keep your files or remove everything, depending on what you need.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Back up anything you want to keep
A factory reset can remove apps, settings, and personal files, depending on the option you choose. Copy important documents, photos, downloads, browser bookmarks, and anything else you need to an external drive or cloud storage before you begin.
If you use BitLocker or another device encryption feature, make sure you know your Microsoft account password and recovery key in case Windows asks for them after the reset.
- 2
Open recovery settings
Click Start, then open Settings. Select System, then Recovery. Under Recovery options, find Reset this PC and click Reset PC.
- 3
Choose whether to keep your files
Select Keep my files if you want Windows to be reset while leaving your personal files in place. Select Remove everything if you want a full factory reset that deletes files, apps, and settings from the PC.
If you are preparing to give away or recycle the computer, Remove everything is usually the best choice.
- 4
Pick how to reinstall Windows
Windows may ask whether you want to Cloud download or Local reinstall. Cloud download gets a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft and needs a stable internet connection. Local reinstall uses files already on your device and is often faster if your internet is slow or limited.
- 5
Review extra reset options
If you chose Remove everything, Windows may show extra choices such as cleaning the drive or resetting all drives. For most home users, the default options are fine. If you are keeping the PC, a standard reset is usually enough; if you are selling it, choose the option that fully cleans the drive if available.
- 6
Start the reset
Read the summary carefully, then click Next or Reset to begin. Your computer may restart several times, and the process can take a while. Keep the PC plugged in so it does not lose power during the reset.
- 7
Set up Windows again
After the reset finishes, Windows will restart and show the first-time setup screens. Follow the prompts to choose your region, keyboard, network, Microsoft account, privacy settings, and other preferences. If you backed up your files, copy them back once you are signed in.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between keep my files and remove everything?
Keep my files reinstalls Windows and removes apps and settings, but leaves your personal files in your user folders. Remove everything deletes personal files, apps, and settings for a more complete reset.
How long does a Windows 11 factory reset take?
Most resets take about 20 minutes to 1 hour, but it can take longer depending on your PC speed, the reset option you choose, and whether you use cloud download.
Will a factory reset remove viruses or malware?
A full reset can remove many software problems, including some malware. For the cleanest result, choose Remove everything and, if available, the option to fully clean the drive before reinstalling Windows.
Can I factory reset Windows 11 without logging in?
Yes. If you cannot sign in, you can usually reach recovery options from the sign-in screen by selecting Power, then holding Shift while clicking Restart. From there, choose Troubleshoot and then Reset this PC.
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