Sometimes you just need to start fresh. Maybe your PC is slowing down, you’re selling it, or you simply want a clean slate. In these cases, the best solution is to delete everything on Windows 11 and restore your computer to factory settings.
But wiping your system isn’t something to take lightly — once your data is gone, it’s gone. That’s why in this guide, we’ll explain step by step how to delete everything on Windows 11, the different reset options, and how to make sure your data is securely erased.
📝 Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
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Use Reset this PC in Windows Settings to delete files and reinstall Windows 11.
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Choose between “Keep my files” (soft reset) and “Remove everything” (full wipe).
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For selling or recycling a PC, use the “Remove files and clean the drive” option.
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You can also reinstall Windows 11 using a bootable USB drive.
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Always back up important files before wiping your computer.
Why Delete Everything on Windows 11?
Here are the most common reasons users choose to wipe their PCs:
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Performance issues: A clean install removes bloatware and corrupted files.
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Virus or malware: Deleting everything ensures infections are wiped out.
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Selling or donating your PC: Protects your privacy by removing personal data.
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Fresh start: Ideal if you want a clean environment without old apps.
Important Precautions Before Deleting Everything
Before you reset your PC, take a few precautions:
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Back up your files: Use OneDrive, an external hard drive, or cloud storage.
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Save your license keys: For paid software like Office or Adobe.
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Disconnect external devices: Such as USB drives or printers.
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Ensure stable power: Plug in your laptop or PC to avoid interruptions.
Method 1: Delete Everything Using Reset This PC
The easiest way to wipe Windows 11 is through the built-in reset option.
Steps:
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to System > Recovery.
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Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC.
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Choose Remove everything.
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Select one of two options:
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Cloud download: Downloads and installs a fresh copy of Windows 11.
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Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows from your device.
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Choose whether to:
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Just remove my files (faster, but less secure).
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Remove files and clean the drive (slower, but safer if selling your PC).
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Click Reset and wait.
Your PC will restart and reset itself — this can take from 30 minutes to a few hours.
Method 2: Delete Everything via Advanced Startup
If Windows 11 won’t boot properly, you can reset it using advanced recovery.
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Restart your PC and hold Shift + Restart.
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Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
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Choose Remove everything.
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Follow the prompts (cloud or local reinstall).
Method 3: Delete Everything Using Installation Media
If you want the cleanest possible installation, use a bootable USB drive.
Steps:
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Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
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Create a bootable USB drive with Windows 11.
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Restart your PC and boot from the USB.
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Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
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Delete all existing partitions to wipe the drive.
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Install Windows 11 fresh.
This method guarantees that everything — including system files and partitions — is wiped.
Method 4: Delete Everything from BIOS (Secure Wipe)
Some PCs allow you to securely erase drives directly from BIOS/UEFI.
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Restart your computer and enter BIOS (F2, Del, or Esc key).
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Look for a Secure Erase or Wipe Drive option.
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Follow the instructions to wipe the drive completely.
⚠️ This option is final — your data cannot be recovered.
Which Reset Option Should You Choose?
| Reset Option | Best For | Security Level | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Just remove my files | Personal use, quick reset | Low | Fast |
| Remove files and clean the drive | Selling/donating PC | High | Slower |
| Cloud download | Latest Windows version | Medium | Depends on internet |
| Local reinstall | No internet access | Medium | Faster |
| USB clean install | Maximum performance/fresh start | Very High | Longest |
Troubleshooting: Issues During Reset
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Reset failed or stuck → Try reinstalling via USB installation media.
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Windows won’t boot after reset → Use Advanced Startup > Repair.
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Files still recoverable → Always use “clean the drive” or third-party secure erase tools if privacy is a concern.
Extra Tip: Use Third-Party Secure Erase Tools
If you’re selling or recycling your PC, consider tools like:
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DBAN (Darik’s Boot and Nuke)
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CCleaner Drive Wiper
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Eraser
These ensure data is unrecoverable, even with recovery software.
Conclusion
Learning how to delete everything on Windows 11 gives you full control over your PC. Whether you want better performance, a clean slate, or to securely erase data before selling your computer, Windows 11 provides multiple reset options to suit your needs.
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For a quick refresh → Use Reset this PC.
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For maximum security → Choose Remove files and clean the drive.
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For a brand-new start → Perform a USB clean install.
Whatever your goal, make sure to back up important files before wiping everything. Once the process is complete, you’ll have a fresh Windows 11 system ready to go.
FAQs: Deleting Everything on Windows 11
1. Will deleting everything remove Windows 11 itself?
No, Windows 11 will be reinstalled — only your apps, files, and settings are removed.
2. How long does it take to delete everything on Windows 11?
Between 30 minutes and a few hours, depending on your hardware and chosen method.
3. Can I recover files after “Remove everything”?
If you only choose Just remove my files, recovery might be possible. For full security, use Remove files and clean the drive.
4. Do I need a Windows license key after reset?
No — Windows 11 will automatically activate if it was previously activated on your device.
5. What’s the safest method for selling a PC?
Use Remove files and clean the drive or a third-party secure erase tool.