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How to Reset Windows 11 to Factory Defaults

Paul L.
Updated

Resetting your Windows 11 PC to factory settings can help fix performance issues, remove malware, or prepare the device for a new user. You can choose to keep your personal files or remove everything for a clean reinstall.

Before You Begin

  • Back up important files (documents, photos, passwords, product keys, etc.)
  • Plug in your device if using a laptop or tablet.
  • Be ready to reinstall apps and reconfigure settings after reset.

How to Reset Windows 11 to Factory Defaults

Step 1: Open Reset Options

  1. Click Start > Settings (or press Windows + I).
  2. Navigate to System > Recovery.
  3. Under Recovery options, find Reset this PC and click Reset PC.

 

Step 2: Choose What to Keep

You’ll be asked to choose between two options:

  • Keep my files
    → Removes apps and settings, but retains your personal files.
  • Remove everything
    → Removes all files, settings, and apps. Choose this for a true factory reset.

 

Step 3: Choose Reinstall Method

Next, choose how you want to reinstall Windows:

  • Cloud download
    → Downloads a fresh copy of Windows 11 from Microsoft. Requires internet (~4 GB download).
  • Local reinstall
    → Reinstalls Windows from files already on your device.

Use Cloud download if you're having system problems or think local files may be corrupted.

 

Step 4: Review and Confirm

Windows will show you a summary of what’s about to happen.

  • If all looks correct, click Next, then Reset.

Your PC will restart and begin the reset process.

What to Expect

  • Reset takes 30–90 minutes depending on your system and selected options.
  • After reset, Windows will reboot to the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE), where you can set up your user account and preferences.

Alternative: Reset from Windows Recovery (if PC won’t boot)

If Windows won't start normally:

  1. Power on the PC and force shut down 2–3 times to enter Windows Recovery.
  2. Click Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
  3. Follow the same options to keep files or remove everything.

After Reset Tips

  • Reinstall important software and drivers.
  • Run Windows Update to get the latest patches.
  • Sign back into your Microsoft account if you use one.

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