Is your Windows 11 PC acting sluggish, full of errors, or simply in need of a fresh start? Sometimes, the easiest solution is to reset your PC. Think of it like giving your computer a clean slate—wiping away problems and starting fresh. But don’t worry, resetting your PC doesn’t always mean losing all your files. Windows 11 makes the process simple and gives you options to keep or remove your personal data.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to reset your Windows 11 PC the right way, what to expect during the process, and how to prepare so you don’t lose anything important.
Why Should You Reset Your Windows 11 PC?
Resetting a PC isn’t something you do every day, but it can solve many common issues:
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Sluggish performance that won’t go away with basic troubleshooting
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Persistent system errors or glitches
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Malware or bloatware infections
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Preparing a PC for resale or donation
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Starting fresh without reinstalling Windows from scratch
What Happens When You Reset Your PC?
Windows 11 gives you two main reset options:
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Keep my files: Removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files.
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Remove everything: Wipes everything and reinstalls Windows as if it were brand new.
It’s like choosing between a light spring cleaning and a full house renovation.
Things to Do Before Resetting Windows 11
Backup Important Files
Even if you choose “Keep my files,” it’s always smart to back up your important documents, photos, and videos to an external drive or cloud storage.
Sign Out of Accounts (If Giving Away)
If you plan to sell or give away your PC, sign out of your Microsoft account and any other linked accounts.
Note Down Installed Apps
After a reset, you’ll lose most apps and programs. Make a list of essentials so you can reinstall them later.
How to Reset Your Windows 11 PC – Step by Step
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Click the Start menu, then select Settings, or press Windows + I
to open it quickly.
Step 2: Navigate to Recovery Options
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In the left sidebar, click System.
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Scroll down and select Recovery.
Step 3: Start the Reset Process
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Under the Recovery options section, find Reset this PC.
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Click Reset PC.
Step 4: Choose a Reset Option
You’ll see two choices:
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Keep my files – Keeps personal files but removes apps and settings.
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Remove everything – Wipes the PC completely.
Pick the one that fits your needs.
Step 5: Select Cloud Download or Local Reinstall
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Cloud Download: Downloads the latest version of Windows 11 from Microsoft servers (requires internet).
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Local Reinstall: Uses files already on your device (faster, no internet needed).
Step 6: Confirm and Reset
Review your choices, then click Next > Reset. Your PC will restart and begin the reset process.
How Long Does It Take to Reset Windows 11?
The time varies depending on your hardware and chosen options:
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Keep my files: Around 20–45 minutes.
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Remove everything (cloud): 1–2 hours.
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Remove everything (local): 30–60 minutes.
What to Expect After Resetting
Once your PC resets, you’ll go through the initial setup just like when you first bought it. If you chose to keep your files, they’ll be in the same place, but you’ll need to reinstall apps and reconfigure your settings.
Troubleshooting: If the Reset Fails
Sometimes the reset may fail or get stuck. If that happens:
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Try running the reset again using a different option (cloud vs local).
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Boot into Advanced Startup Options and select Reset this PC.
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As a last resort, create a Windows 11 installation media using a USB drive and do a clean install.
Is Resetting Better Than Reinstalling Windows?
Resetting is faster and easier because it uses built-in tools, but a full reinstall can sometimes solve deeper problems, especially if your PC is heavily corrupted or infected.
Tips to Keep Your PC Running Smooth After Reset
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Keep Windows 11 updated regularly.
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Install only the apps you truly need.
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Run built-in tools like Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense.
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Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources.
Final Thoughts
Resetting your Windows 11 PC can feel like pressing the refresh button on your digital life. Whether you’re fixing performance issues or preparing your computer for a new owner, Windows makes the process straightforward. Just remember to back up your files, choose the right reset option, and follow the steps carefully.
FAQs
1. Will resetting Windows 11 delete everything?
Not necessarily. If you choose Keep my files, your personal data stays intact.
2. Can I stop the reset once it starts?
No, interrupting the process may corrupt your system. Always let it finish.
3. How many times can I reset my PC?
There’s no strict limit, but frequent resets might indicate a deeper problem.
4. Do I need a product key after resetting?
Usually, no. Your Windows 11 license is tied to your hardware.
5. Is cloud download better than local reinstall?
Cloud download ensures you get the latest version of Windows, but it requires internet and more time.