Sometimes, you just need a clean slate. Maybe your computer feels sluggish, or you’re prepping it for a new owner. A factory reset can fix that, but it wipes everything—so back up your files first. Photos, videos, documents—save them somewhere safe. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Steps to Factory Reset Windows 11
- Tap the Windows icon at the bottom of your screen.
- Click on Settings (the gear icon).
- On the left-hand menu, select System.
- Scroll down until you find Recovery, then click it.
- Under “Recovery options,” look for Reset this PC.
- Click Reset PC on the right side.
- Choose what to remove. You’ll see two options:
- Keep my files (keeps personal files but removes apps and settings).
- Remove everything (completely wipes the system).
- For a full reset, pick Remove everything.
- Select reinstall method. Choose between:
- Cloud download (downloads a fresh copy of Windows from the internet).
- Local reinstall (uses existing files on your PC).
- Go with Local reinstall if you want a faster process.
- A summary will appear showing what will be reset.
- Click Next, then hit Reset when you’re ready.
- Your PC will restart and begin resetting itself. This might take some time, so be patient.
Pro Tips
- Always back up important files before starting. Once erased, they’re gone for good.
- Make sure your device is plugged in during the reset to avoid interruptions.
- If selling your PC, double-check that all personal data is removed by choosing “Remove everything.”
Factory resetting can feel like hitting a giant “refresh” button on your computer—it’s worth it when done right!