When you perform a factory reset on your desktop or laptop, the system performs a clean installation of Windows 11. This process restores your PC to its original factory settings. It removes your applications and settings, effectively clearing the device of any malware. However, you can reinstall Windows without losing your files and applications if you create a backup before initiating the reset. If the Local Security Authority protection is disabled on Windows 11, remember to re-enable it after resetting the PC.
How to Factory Reset Windows 11
Understanding how to factory reset Windows 11 enables you to troubleshoot and resolve various issues affecting Windows 11 PCs. Here, you'll discover different methods to reset your Windows 11, providing it with a fresh start. All of these methods allow you to either keep your files or remove them as part of the reset options.
Using Settings
The primary method for factory resetting Windows 11 is through the Settings app. If your device can boot normally, you can access Settings and navigate to the Reset button. Here are the steps:
- Press the Windows key + I to open Settings and select System > Recovery.
- Click the "Reset PC" button located under Reset this PC within the Recovery options.
- In the Choose an option window, you can select either "Keep my files" or "Remove everything".
- When you choose "Keep my files", you'll have the option to restore your files and applications after the reset. It's recommended to log into your Windows account and back up your data, such as personal files, before proceeding with the reset.
- Selecting "Remove everything" will erase all data on your computer. The "Help me choose" button at the bottom left provides details about both options, aiding you in making a quick decision.
- After selecting an option, you'll encounter two more choices – "Cloud download" and "Local reinstall".
- Choosing "Cloud download" will utilize the Windows installation file from Cloud servers for the installation. Selecting "Local reinstall" will use the installation file present on your PC to reinstall Windows 11.
- Choose the appropriate option and proceed to the Additional settings page. You can press "Next" if you don't wish to modify any settings. Clicking "Change settings" allows you to adjust specific settings.
- Finally, follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset process.
From Windows Recovery Environment
The Windows Recovery Environment, or WinRE, provides a secure environment for troubleshooting issues with the Windows operating system. If you're unable to boot into Windows normally, you can utilize this method to factory reset Windows 11. You can even access WinRE from Settings if you can access the app. Here's how:
From Settings
- Press the Windows key + I to open Settings and select System > Recovery.
- Click the "Restart now" button located under Advanced Startup within the Recovery options.
- Your PC will restart and enter WinRE.
- The subsequent screen will present three options. Select "Troubleshoot".
- In the following window, choose "Reset this PC".
- You can select either "Keep my files" or "Remove everything", similar to the method described earlier. Making a selection will lead you to the "Cloud download" and "Local reinstall" options. Again, you must choose one and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset of your computer.
From the Sign-In Screen
On the sign-in screen, click the Power button. Then, press the Shift key + Restart button to enter WinRE. Once you're in WinRE, you can choose the Troubleshoot option and proceed as described above.
Using Command Prompt
The Command Prompt utility allows you to initiate the reset process with a single command. You can follow the instructions in the previous methods to navigate through the reset process. Here's how to factory reset Windows 11 using Command Prompt:
- Type "cmd" in the search bar and open Command Prompt by selecting "Run as administrator".
- Enter the following command in the Command Prompt window and press Enter:
systemreset –factoryreset - You'll then be presented with two options – "Keep my files" and "Remove everything". Proceed as explained in the previous methods and complete the reset.
Conclusion
Many users opt for a factory reset on their Windows 11 laptop or desktop to restore the PC to its default settings. This action will erase all the settings you've modified and the applications you've installed. However, you can retain your files and applications if you've backed them up beforehand.
This article has explored how to factory reset Windows 11 using various methods. Once the reset is completed, the OS will be reinstalled. You can then restore your preferences and files if you've created a backup.
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