Factory Reset in Windows 10 and Windows 11

Guide on how to reset your Windows PC to factory settings, wiping data or keeping files.

When to Factory Reset?

• Persistent Issues: Computer is running slow, crashing, or has malware.
• Selling the PC: You want to wipe all personal data.
• Fresh Start: You want a clean Windows installation without manual reformatting.

Step-by-Step Guide

Windows 11

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to System > Recovery.
3. Under "Recovery options", click Reset PC.
4. Choose an option:
   • Keep my files: Removes apps and settings, but keeps personal files.
   • Remove everything: Wipes all data, apps, and settings (Recommended for selling).
5. Choose how to reinstall Windows:
   • Cloud download: Downloads fresh files from Microsoft (Best if system files are corrupted).
   • Local reinstall: Uses existing files on your drive.
6. Review settings and click Next.
7. Click Reset. The PC will restart and begin the process (30-60 mins).

Windows 10

1. Open Settings (Win + I).
2. Go to Update & Security > Recovery.
3. Under "Reset this PC", click Get started.
4. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
5. Select Cloud or Local reinstall.
6. Click Reset.

Advanced Methods

Reset from Sign-in Screen

If you can't log in:

1. Hold Shift key while clicking Power > Restart.
2. PC boots into recovery mode (Blue screen).
3. Go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.

Clean Install via USB

For a completely fresh start (wipes partitions):

1. Create bootable USB with Media Creation Tool.
2. Boot from USB (F12/Del at startup).
3. Select "Custom: Install Windows only".
4. Delete all partitions until you see "Unallocated Space".
5. Click Next.

Post-Reset Checklist

1. Run Windows Update: Get latest drivers and patches.
2. Install Drivers: GPU, Chipset, Audio (from manufacturer website).
3. Debloat: Remove unwanted pre-installed apps.
4. Install Software: Browser, Office, Steam, etc.