How to Factory Reset Windows 11 from Command Prompt: A Guide

By / September 19, 2025

Summary — Key Takeaways

  • You can factory reset Windows 11 directly from Command Prompt (CMD) using built-in recovery tools.

  • The main command is systemreset -factoryreset, which launches the reset wizard.

  • If Windows won’t boot normally, you can access Command Prompt via Advanced Startup and reset from there.

  • Reset options let you either keep your files or remove everything for a fresh install.

  • This guide covers both working Windows and unbootable systems, with step-by-step instructions.

Introduction

Sometimes, your Windows 11 PC just won’t cooperate. Maybe it’s slow, full of errors, or infected with malware. In those cases, a factory reset can give your computer a fresh start.

While most people reset their PC using Settings → System → Recovery, you can also do it with the Command Prompt (CMD). This is especially useful when:

  • The Settings app won’t open.

  • Your system is corrupted and unstable.

  • You’re stuck in Safe Mode or Advanced Startup.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to factory reset Windows 11 from Command Prompt, step by step.

Why Reset Windows 11 from CMD?

Here’s why you might prefer Command Prompt over the regular method:

  • Faster access → Just one command instead of navigating menus.

  • Fix broken Settings app → If Settings won’t open, CMD is a reliable alternative.

  • Recovery mode option → Works even if Windows doesn’t fully boot.

  • IT administrators → Use CMD for scripting and remote resets.

Important Things to Know Before Resetting

Before you proceed, keep these points in mind:

  • Backup important files → Resetting may erase apps and data.

  • Two reset modes:

    • Keep my files → Reinstalls Windows but keeps your personal files.

    • Remove everything → Wipes all files, apps, and settings.

  • Laptop users → Keep your device plugged in during reset.

  • Time required → Reset may take 30 minutes to several hours depending on hardware.

Step 1 — Open Command Prompt in Windows 11

There are different ways to access Command Prompt depending on your situation:

If Windows is running normally:

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd.

  2. Right-click Command Prompt → Run as administrator.

If Windows won’t boot:

  1. Restart your PC and press F11 (or Shift + F8 / check manufacturer key) to enter Advanced Startup Options.

  2. Go to:
    Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Command Prompt.

Step 2 — Run the Factory Reset Command

Once Command Prompt is open, type the following command:

systemreset -factoryreset

  • Press Enter.

  • The Reset this PC wizard will appear.

👉 If you see an error like “systemreset is not recognized”, try booting into Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) first.

Step 3 — Choose a Reset Option

The wizard gives you two choices:

  1. Keep my files

    • Removes apps and settings.

    • Keeps personal files like documents, pictures, and videos.

  2. Remove everything

    • Completely wipes your PC.

    • Recommended if selling or giving away your computer.

Step 4 — Cloud Download vs Local Reinstall

Next, you’ll be asked:

  • Cloud download → Downloads a fresh copy of Windows 11 (needs internet, ~4GB).

  • Local reinstall → Reinstalls from files already on your device (faster, no internet required).

Step 5 — Complete the Reset

  1. Review the summary screen.

  2. Click Reset to start.

  3. Your PC will restart and begin the factory reset process.

⚠️ Do not turn off your PC during this process.

Advanced Method — Using reagentc for Recovery

If systemreset doesn’t work, try re-enabling the recovery environment:

  1. In Command Prompt, type:

    reagentc /info

    • This checks if Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) is enabled.

  2. If disabled, re-enable it with:

    reagentc /enable

  3. Restart your PC and try systemreset -factoryreset again.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem Solution
systemreset command not working Boot into WinRE and run it from there.
Reset stuck at certain % Be patient; if stuck >2 hours, restart and try again.
No recovery image found Use Cloud download option.
Can’t access CMD Boot from a Windows 11 USB installer → Repair your computer → Command Prompt.

When Should You Use CMD Reset vs Settings Reset?

  • Use Settings Reset if your PC works fine and you can access menus.

  • Use CMD Reset if Settings is broken, PC won’t boot, or you need recovery mode.

Conclusion

Factory resetting Windows 11 using Command Prompt is a powerful way to fix stubborn problems, even when your PC won’t boot.

  • Use systemreset -factoryreset for quick access.

  • Choose Keep my files or Remove everything depending on your needs.

  • Use Cloud download if local recovery files are missing.

With these steps, you can bring your PC back to life without needing complicated tools.

FAQs About Factory Resetting Windows 11 from CMD

1. Does resetting from CMD delete everything?
Not always. You can choose between keeping files or removing everything.

2. What if my PC won’t boot at all?
You can access Command Prompt from Advanced Startup (WinRE) or a Windows 11 USB installer.

3. Can I reset without internet?
Yes, choose Local reinstall. But if system files are missing, you’ll need Cloud download.

4. Is resetting from CMD different from using Settings?
No, both methods use the same Windows reset tool — CMD just provides another way to launch it.

5. How long does a CMD factory reset take?
Usually 30–90 minutes, depending on your PC’s speed and reset type.

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