How to Factory Reset Windows 11 from Boot: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Windows 11 computer is running into serious issues like system crashes, malware infections, or performance slowdowns that can’t be fixed with simple troubleshooting, a factory reset from boot may be the ultimate solution. Unlike a regular reset from within Windows, this method allows you to restore your PC even when it won’t start properly.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through how to factory reset Windows 11 from boot safely and effectively. Whether you’re preparing to sell your device, removing stubborn errors, or starting fresh, you’ll find everything you need here — explained in plain, beginner-friendly language.

Table of Contents

📝 Key Takeaways

Factory reset from boot helps when Windows 11 won’t start normally.
You can reset using Advanced Startup Options or Recovery Media.
Two reset options: Keep my files (retains personal files) and Remove everything (full wipe).
Always backup important files before proceeding.
Factory resetting can solve issues like malware, crashes, or corrupted system files.

Why Factory Reset Windows 11 from Boot?

Before diving into the steps, let’s answer the big question: why would you reset from boot instead of within Windows?

Windows won’t load — If your PC is stuck in a boot loop, black screen, or blue screen, a reset from boot bypasses the normal startup.
Severe malware infection — Sometimes, malicious software prevents access to settings.
System corruption — If critical system files are broken, a boot-level reset can restore them.
Preparing to sell your PC — A full wipe from boot ensures no personal data lingers.

Think of it like restarting your phone with a hard reset when it completely freezes — sometimes you need a deeper fix.

⚠️ Things to Do Before Factory Reset

Even though a factory reset is powerful, it also comes with risks. Take these precautions first:

Backup your files: Save documents, photos, and videos to an external drive or cloud storage.
Note your software licenses: Apps like Microsoft Office may require reactivation.
Charge your device: A reset can take time — ensure your laptop has at least 50% battery or stays plugged in.
Disconnect peripherals: Remove unnecessary USB devices to avoid conflicts.

Methods to Factory Reset Windows 11 from Boot

There are two primary ways to reset your Windows 11 PC from boot:

Using Advanced Startup Options (built-in recovery environment)
Using Windows 11 Installation Media (USB or DVD)

We’ll cover both in detail.

Method 1: Factory Reset Windows 11 via Advanced Startup Options

This is the easiest method if your PC can at least reach the recovery screen.

Step 1: Access Advanced Startup Options

You can trigger recovery mode in several ways:

Automatic Repair Mode: If Windows fails to boot three times in a row, it will automatically launch the recovery screen.
Manual Shortcut: Turn on your PC → Hold Shift → Click Restart (works if you can access login screen).
Boot with Power Button: Shut down your PC completely → Press the power button → As soon as Windows logo appears, hold the power button to force shutdown. Repeat 3 times. On the fourth boot, Windows should enter recovery mode.

Step 2: Navigate to Reset Option

Once inside recovery:

Select Troubleshoot.
Click Reset this PC.

Step 3: Choose Reset Type

You’ll see two options:

Keep my files – Removes apps & settings but keeps personal files.
Remove everything – Full wipe, removes all files, apps, and settings.

👉 For serious problems or selling your PC, choose Remove everything.

Step 4: Cloud Download vs. Local Reinstall

Windows 11 will ask:

Cloud download – Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft (needs internet, ~4GB).
Local reinstall – Reinstalls from your device’s existing system files (faster, no internet needed).

Choose based on your situation. Cloud download is safer if system files are corrupted.

Step 5: Confirm and Reset

Review the changes.
Click Reset.
Wait while Windows wipes and reinstalls.

This process may take 30–60 minutes depending on your hardware.

Method 2: Factory Reset Using Windows Installation Media

If recovery options don’t work, you can use a bootable USB drive.

Step 1: Create Installation Media

On another PC, download the Windows 11 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
Use it to create a bootable USB drive (at least 8GB).

Step 2: Boot from USB

Insert the USB into your PC.
Restart and press F2, F12, ESC, or DEL (depending on manufacturer) to open Boot Menu.
Select your USB drive.

Step 3: Enter Recovery Mode

On Windows Setup screen, click Repair your computer (bottom-left).
Go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.

Step 4: Follow Reset Process

The reset steps (Keep my files / Remove everything / Cloud vs Local reinstall) are identical to Method 1.

Alternative: Fresh Install Instead of Reset

Sometimes a clean install is better than a reset. If you choose this route:

Boot from installation media.
Instead of “Repair your computer,” click Install now.
Select Custom: Install Windows only.
Delete partitions and reinstall.

This wipes everything and installs Windows from scratch — ideal if you want a brand-new system.

Pros and Cons of Factory Reset from Boot

Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Pros	Cons
Fixes startup issues	Removes installed apps
Removes malware deeply	Data loss if not backed up
Restores system stability	Takes 30–60 minutes
Prepares PC for resale	May require reinstalling drivers

Common Issues During Reset and How to Fix Them

❌ Windows Reset Stuck at 1% or 100%

Wait at least 2–3 hours before assuming it’s frozen.
If truly stuck, force restart and retry.

❌ “There was a problem resetting your PC”

Try Cloud download instead of local reinstall.
Use installation media if recovery environment is corrupted.

❌ PC Keeps Restarting After Reset

Update BIOS/firmware.
Reinstall Windows cleanly if issues persist.

Tips to Speed Up the Reset Process

Use SSD instead of HDD — resets are much faster.
Disconnect external drives.
Ensure stable internet if using Cloud download.
Disable extra startup devices in BIOS.

After Reset: What to Do Next

Once your PC resets, it’ll feel like a brand-new device. Here’s what to do:

Complete Windows Setup — Choose language, region, and sign in with Microsoft account.
Update Windows — Install latest security patches.
Install drivers — Windows does this automatically, but check manufacturer’s site.
Reinstall apps — Download your essentials like Office, Chrome, or Steam.
Restore your files — Move back the data you backed up earlier.

✅ Conclusion

Factory resetting Windows 11 from boot is a powerful way to fix stubborn errors, remove malware, and restore performance — even when your system won’t start. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently reset your PC using either Advanced Startup Options or installation media.

Remember:

Always backup data first.
Choose Remove everything for a full wipe.
If reset fails, a clean install is your best fallback.

With these methods, you’ll have your Windows 11 PC running like new in no time.

🔍 FAQs About Factory Resetting Windows 11 from Boot

1. Can I reset Windows 11 from boot without losing data?
Yes, choose Keep my files during reset. But apps and settings will still be removed.

2. How long does a factory reset take in Windows 11?
Typically 30–60 minutes. Cloud download may take longer depending on internet speed.

3. Do I need a product key after factory reset?
No. Windows 11 will auto-activate if your PC was previously activated.

4. What if my PC won’t enter recovery mode?
Use Windows installation media on a bootable USB drive to access reset options.

5. Is factory reset the same as reinstalling Windows?
Almost. Reset uses built-in recovery files, while reinstall wipes everything and installs fresh from media.