The process is straightforward, but choosing the correct reset option is important. Depending on your selection, Windows can keep your personal files or remove them, including an option to clean the drive more thoroughly before you sell or give away your computer.
In this guide, you will learn how to restore a Windows 10 computer to factory settings step by step, how to back up your files, which reset option to choose, and what to do if the reset process fails.
Whether you are troubleshooting a slow PC, dealing with software errors, or preparing your device for resale, this guide will help you understand your options before making changes.
How Do You Restore a Windows 10 Computer to Factory Settings?
The quickest way to reset a working Windows 10 computer is through the Settings app.
Follow these steps:
- Open the Start menu.
- Select Settings.
- Click Update & Security.
- Choose Recovery from the left-hand menu.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
- Select Keep my files or Remove everything.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.
Important: Back up your important files before starting. Choosing Remove everything can delete personal files, applications, and settings. If you plan to sell or give away your computer, you should also consider the drive-cleaning option when available.
What Does Restoring Windows 10 to Factory Settings Mean?
Restoring a Windows 10 computer to factory settings means resetting Windows to a fresh or near-fresh state using the recovery options available on your device.
The exact result depends on the recovery method and the computer manufacturer’s configuration.
A Windows reset can remove installed applications, reset system settings, reinstall Windows, and either preserve or delete personal files. A manufacturer-provided recovery tool may instead restore the computer to the original factory image, potentially including the software that came with it.
These methods are related, but they are not always identical.
What Happens When You Reset Windows 10?
The following table explains the main differences between the available reset options.
| Reset option | Personal files | Installed applications | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keep my files | Usually preserves personal files in your user folders | Removes many installed applications and resets settings | Troubleshooting Windows while keeping files |
| Remove everything | Removes personal files, applications, and settings | Removes installed applications | Starting fresh or preparing the PC for transfer |
| Remove everything with drive cleaning | Removes personal files and performs additional drive cleaning | Removes installed applications | Preparing a supported drive for resale or disposal |
The exact options and wording may vary depending on your Windows version, device configuration, and recovery method.
Before You Reset Windows 10: Important Preparations
Before restoring your computer, take a few minutes to prepare. These steps can prevent data loss and make it easier to get your computer working again.
1. Back Up Your Important Files
A factory reset can permanently remove data, particularly when you select Remove everything. Even the Keep my files option should not replace a proper backup.
Save important items such as:
- Documents, spreadsheets, and PDFs
- Photos and videos
- Desktop files
- Downloads you still need
- Work and school projects
- Browser bookmarks, if they are not synced
- Locally stored email archives
- Application configuration files
- Game saves that are not stored online
You can back up files to an external hard drive, USB storage device, or a trusted cloud storage service.
Open File Explorer, locate the folders containing your important files, and copy them to your chosen backup destination.
After copying, open several files from the backup to verify that they work.
2. Save Your Passwords and Recovery Information
Make sure you can sign in to your Microsoft account and any important online services after the reset.
If you use a password manager, confirm that your passwords are synced or backed up.
If your computer uses BitLocker or device encryption, save your recovery key somewhere separate from the computer. You may need this key to access an encrypted drive in certain recovery situations.
You can learn more through Microsoft’s BitLocker recovery guide.
3. Check Your Windows Activation Status
Before resetting, confirm that Windows is activated.
Follow these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Select Update & Security.
- Click Activation.
- Check the activation status.
If your computer has a valid digital license, Windows will generally reactivate automatically after you reinstall the same edition on the same device when it can connect to Microsoft’s activation servers.
If you are using a product key or a specialized business license, make sure you have the necessary activation information.
4. Make a List of Installed Programs
Resetting Windows typically removes applications you installed yourself.
Before proceeding, write down the names of programs you want to reinstall, such as:
- Microsoft Office or other productivity software
- Web browsers
- Photo and video editors
- Printer utilities
- Games
- Accounting or business software
- Device-specific utilities
Make sure you can access the installation files, license information, or accounts needed to reinstall them.
5. Connect Your Computer to Power
If you are using a laptop, connect the charger before starting the reset.
A reset can take a considerable amount of time, depending on your computer, storage device, and chosen options. Losing power during the process can cause recovery problems.
6. Disconnect Unnecessary External Devices
Remove external storage drives, USB accessories, memory cards, and other nonessential peripherals.
Keep only the devices needed to complete the reset, such as a keyboard, mouse, monitor, and power cable.
This reduces the chance of accidentally selecting or modifying an external storage device during recovery.
Method 1: Restore Windows 10 to Factory Settings Through Settings
This is the standard method when Windows starts normally and you can access the desktop.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Windows logo in the lower-left corner of your screen.
You can also press the Windows key on your keyboard.
Step 2: Open Settings
Click the gear-shaped Settings icon.
If you cannot find it, type Settings into the Start menu search box and select the Settings app.
Step 3: Go to Update & Security
In the Settings window, click Update & Security.
This section contains Windows Update, backup, troubleshooting, and recovery options.
Step 4: Select Recovery
Choose Recovery from the left-hand navigation panel.
Look for the section titled Reset this PC.
Step 5: Click Get Started
Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
Windows will display the available reset options.
Step 6: Choose Keep My Files or Remove Everything
You will generally see two primary options.
Keep my files: Windows reinstalls the operating system while attempting to preserve personal files in your user folders. It removes many installed applications and resets settings.
Remove everything: Windows removes personal files, installed applications, and settings as part of the reset.
Choose the option that matches your goal. If you are selling or giving away the computer, Remove everything is usually more appropriate.
Step 7: Follow the Additional Prompts
Depending on your selection and system configuration, Windows may ask how you want to reinstall the operating system or whether you want to clean the drive.
Read each prompt carefully.
If you selected Keep my files, review the list of applications that Windows says will be removed, if one is provided.
If you selected Remove everything, confirm that you have backed up the data you need.
Step 8: Review the Reset Summary
Windows will display a summary of what the reset will do.
Check that you selected the correct options before continuing.
If you notice that the wrong reset method is selected, cancel the process and start again rather than proceeding with an unwanted data deletion.
Step 9: Click Reset
When you are satisfied with your choices, click Reset to begin.
Your computer may restart several times. Do not turn it off or disconnect its power during the process.
Step 10: Complete Windows Setup
After the reset finishes, Windows may display its initial setup screens.
Follow the prompts to configure your region, keyboard, network connection, account, privacy preferences, and other settings.
If you chose Keep my files, check that your important personal files are still present. If you chose Remove everything, configure the computer as needed for your next use.
Method 2: Restore Windows 10 Using Cloud Download
Some Windows 10 installations offer a choice between Cloud download and Local reinstall.
Cloud download obtains a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft, while Local reinstall uses existing files already on your computer.
Step 1: Open the Reset Menu
Go to Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
Click Get started under Reset this PC.
Step 2: Select Your Reset Option
Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
Step 3: Choose Cloud Download
If Windows presents the Cloud download and Local reinstall options, select Cloud download.
Windows will download the files needed to reinstall the operating system.
This can be useful if local Windows installation files are damaged or incomplete.
Step 4: Check Your Internet Connection
Cloud download requires an internet connection and may consume several gigabytes of data.
If your internet connection is limited, slow, or unreliable, Local reinstall may be more convenient.
Step 5: Review and Confirm
Review the reset summary, check that your files are backed up, and confirm the reset.
Allow Windows to download the necessary files and complete the process.
Note: Cloud download is not available in every recovery environment or on every configuration. If you do not see this option, use the available recovery method or consider official Windows installation media.
Method 3: Factory Reset Windows 10 When the Computer Will Not Start
If Windows will not boot normally, you may still be able to reset it through the Windows Recovery Environment, often called WinRE.
This is useful when your PC repeatedly crashes, becomes stuck during startup, or cannot reach the desktop.
Option A: Use the Automatic Recovery Screen
If Windows fails to start correctly several times, it may open an automatic recovery screen.
Follow these steps:
- Wait for the recovery screen to appear.
- Select See advanced repair options, if shown.
- Choose Troubleshoot.
- Select Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
- Follow the instructions.
The available choices depend on your recovery environment and device configuration.
Option B: Enter Recovery From the Sign-In Screen
If you can reach the Windows sign-in screen but cannot sign in, you may be able to access recovery options.
- On the sign-in screen, click the Power icon.
- Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard.
- While holding Shift, click Restart.
- Continue holding Shift until the recovery screen appears.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Choose Reset this PC.
- Select the appropriate reset option and follow the prompts.
If Windows asks for a BitLocker recovery key, use the key you saved before starting.
Option C: Enter Recovery Through Windows Settings
If you can still access Windows, you can restart directly into the recovery environment.
- Open Settings.
- Select Update & Security.
- Click Recovery.
- Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot after the computer restarts.
- Choose Reset this PC.
This method is convenient if the regular desktop works but you prefer to run recovery outside the normal Windows session.
Method 4: Restore Windows 10 Using a Windows Installation USB
If built-in recovery options are unavailable or damaged, a Windows installation USB may help you reinstall Windows.
This method requires more preparation than the standard reset procedure.
Step 1: Prepare a USB Drive
Use a separate computer that works properly to create official Windows installation media.
You will need a USB drive with sufficient capacity. The creation process can erase the drive, so back up any files stored on it first.
Use Microsoft’s official Windows 10 download page to check available installation-media options.
Step 2: Boot the Computer From the USB
Insert the installation USB into the computer you want to repair.
Restart the computer and open its boot menu. The key varies by manufacturer and may be F12, F9, Esc, F11, or another key.
Select the USB drive to start Windows Setup.
If the USB does not appear, consult your computer manufacturer’s instructions for boot-menu and firmware settings.
Step 3: Choose a Recovery or Installation Option
When Windows Setup appears, follow the available prompts.
Depending on the media and environment, you may be able to access repair options or proceed with a clean installation.
If your goal is to repair an existing installation without immediately deleting files, check the repair options before choosing a clean installation.
Step 4: Proceed Carefully
A clean installation can delete existing data, especially if you format or delete partitions.
Do not delete or format partitions unless you understand which drive contains Windows and have backed up your data.
If you are unfamiliar with disk partitions, stop before making changes and consult Microsoft’s installation instructions or a qualified technician.
Step 5: Complete Setup
After installation, follow the on-screen instructions to configure Windows.
Install the necessary device drivers and updates, reinstall your applications, restore your backed-up files, and verify activation.
Important: A USB installation is not always equivalent to the computer manufacturer’s original factory recovery. It may install a clean Windows environment without the manufacturer’s original applications or configuration.
Method 5: Restore a Computer to Its Original Manufacturer Settings
Some computers from manufacturers such as Dell, HP, Lenovo, and ASUS include their own recovery tools or factory recovery partitions.
These tools may restore the computer to its original software configuration, including certain manufacturer applications and drivers.
The steps vary by model.
Step 1: Identify Your Computer Model
Check the model number on your computer, its packaging, or the system information screen.
Step 2: Visit the Manufacturer’s Support Website
Open the official support website for your computer’s manufacturer.
Search for your model and look for recovery instructions or factory restore documentation.
Step 3: Review the Recovery Requirements
Some manufacturer recovery tools use a recovery partition. Others require a recovery USB or a separate download.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and check whether the process will erase your files.
Step 4: Run the Factory Recovery Process
Follow the exact instructions for your computer model.
Avoid using recovery instructions intended for a different model, because recovery menus and procedures can differ significantly.
Which Windows 10 Reset Option Should You Choose?
Choosing the correct reset method depends on why you want to restore your computer.
| Your situation | Recommended approach |
|---|---|
| Windows is slow, but your files are important | Back up your files, then consider Keep my files |
| Windows has persistent software problems | Try standard troubleshooting first; consider Reset this PC |
| You want to remove your files and start fresh | Remove everything |
| You plan to sell or give away your computer | Remove everything, with drive cleaning where appropriate |
| Windows will not start normally | Use Windows Recovery Environment |
| Recovery files are damaged or missing | Consider official Windows installation media |
| You want the original manufacturer configuration | Check the manufacturer’s recovery instructions |
A reset is not always necessary for a slow computer. Before resetting, you can try uninstalling unwanted applications, checking available storage, scanning for malware, or repairing Windows system files.
How Long Does a Windows 10 Factory Reset Take?
There is no single time estimate that applies to every computer.
A reset may take anywhere from several minutes to a few hours, depending on factors such as:
- Whether you choose Cloud download or Local reinstall
- Your internet speed
- The speed and condition of your storage drive
- The amount of data on the computer
- Whether you choose additional drive cleaning
- The computer’s hardware and recovery configuration
Cloud download can take longer on a slow internet connection. Thorough drive cleaning may also extend the process.
It is normal for the computer to restart multiple times. However, if the reset appears stuck for an unusually long time with no visible progress, consult your computer manufacturer’s support guidance before forcing a shutdown.
What Happens to Your Files After a Factory Reset?
The result depends on which reset option you selected.
If You Choose Keep My Files
Windows attempts to preserve personal files in your user folders while reinstalling the operating system and removing many applications and settings.
Nevertheless, you should always back up important data before proceeding. Do not assume every file, application setting, or locally stored application database will be preserved.
If You Choose Remove Everything
Windows removes personal files, applications, and settings from the selected Windows installation as part of the reset.
Depending on the options available, you may also be able to clean the drive more thoroughly.
If You Choose a Clean Installation
A clean installation can remove existing Windows data and applications, particularly if you format or delete partitions during setup.
Check the target drive carefully before proceeding.
If You Need to Recover Files
If you accidentally deleted important files, stop using the affected drive as much as possible. Continued use may overwrite recoverable data.
Recovery is not guaranteed, particularly after a reset that cleans the drive. If the files are valuable, consider professional data-recovery assistance.
How to Prepare Windows 10 for Sale or Transfer
If you are giving away or selling your computer, protecting your personal information is essential.
1. Back Up and Verify Your Data
Copy the files you want to keep to a separate storage location and verify the backup.
2. Sign Out of Important Accounts
Sign out of personal services where appropriate and make sure you can access your accounts from another device.
3. Choose Remove Everything
Open Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Reset this PC → Get started.
Select Remove everything.
4. Review Drive-Cleaning Options
If Windows offers a drive-cleaning option, consider it when transferring ownership of the computer.
Additional cleaning can make ordinary file recovery more difficult, but the protection provided depends on the storage device, the cleaning method, and the system configuration.
For highly sensitive information, follow appropriate secure-erasure guidance for your specific drive rather than relying solely on a standard reset.
5. Leave Windows at the Initial Setup Screen
After the reset, stop when Windows displays the initial setup experience, if your goal is to let the new owner configure the computer.
This allows the new owner to create their own account and choose their preferences.
Troubleshooting Common Windows 10 Factory Reset Problems
Even though Windows includes built-in recovery tools, the reset process can sometimes fail. The following solutions cover common issues.
Problem 1: Reset This PC Is Missing
If you cannot find the reset option, check Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
If it is still unavailable, your Windows installation or recovery environment may be damaged, or your device may use a manufacturer-specific recovery method.
You can also enter Windows Recovery Environment or use official installation media.
Problem 2: Windows Says There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC
This message may appear when Windows cannot access the files or components needed to complete the reset.
Try the following:
- Restart the computer and try again if Windows is otherwise stable.
- Disconnect unnecessary external devices.
- Check for available Windows updates if you can access the desktop.
- Try the recovery environment if the normal Settings method fails.
- Consider official installation media if built-in recovery remains unavailable.
Back up your files before attempting more extensive repair or installation procedures.
Problem 3: The Reset Gets Stuck
Some resets take longer than expected, especially when downloading Windows or cleaning a drive.
Keep the computer connected to power and allow the process time to finish.
If there is no progress for an unusually long period, check the manufacturer’s support instructions before forcing a shutdown, as interrupting a reset can create additional problems.
Problem 4: The Computer Keeps Restarting
Multiple restarts are normal during a reset.
If the computer repeatedly returns to the same error screen or cannot finish Windows setup, use the recovery environment or official installation media to troubleshoot the installation.
If the system also experiences hardware errors, the problem may not be limited to Windows software.
Problem 5: Windows Asks for a BitLocker Recovery Key
If the Windows drive is encrypted, recovery may require a BitLocker recovery key.
Use your saved key or follow Microsoft’s official instructions to locate it. Do not assume you can bypass encryption without the correct recovery information.
Problem 6: Windows Is Not Activated After the Reset
First, connect to the internet and open Settings → Update & Security → Activation.
Confirm that the installed Windows edition matches the license associated with the device.
If activation still fails, use the Activation troubleshooter if available or contact Microsoft Support. Computers with unusual licensing arrangements may require additional steps.
Problem 7: Wi-Fi or Other Drivers Are Missing
A reset or clean installation may remove some drivers or manufacturer utilities.
Use another working device to download drivers from the official computer manufacturer’s support website if necessary.
Transfer the installers using a USB drive, then install the required network, graphics, audio, and chipset drivers.
Avoid downloading drivers from unfamiliar websites.
Is It Safe to Restore Windows 10 to Factory Settings?
A reset is a standard Windows recovery feature, but it can still cause problems if you choose the wrong options or have not prepared properly.
To reduce the risk:
- Back up important files.
- Save your BitLocker recovery key if applicable.
- Check your Windows activation status.
- Keep the computer connected to power.
- Read the reset summary before confirming.
- Avoid interrupting the process.
- Use official Microsoft or manufacturer recovery tools.
- Verify that your backup works before erasing data.
Also remember that a factory reset does not repair failing hardware. If your computer has a damaged drive, faulty memory, overheating problems, or another hardware issue, those problems may remain after Windows is reset.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I restore a Windows 10 computer to factory settings without a password?
If you cannot sign in, try accessing Windows Recovery Environment from the sign-in screen by holding Shift while selecting Restart from the Power menu. Then choose Troubleshoot → Reset this PC.
The process may require a BitLocker recovery key, and the available options depend on your device configuration. If you cannot access recovery, official installation media may be another option.
2. Will restoring Windows 10 to factory settings delete everything?
It depends on your selection. Keep my files attempts to preserve personal files while removing many applications and settings. Remove everything removes personal files, applications, and settings from the selected Windows installation. Always create a backup before resetting.
3. How can I factory reset Windows 10 without a CD?
You can usually reset Windows through Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Reset this PC. If Windows cannot start, use its recovery environment when available. A USB installation drive is an alternative if the built-in recovery tools are unavailable.
4. Can I restore Windows 10 to factory settings without losing my files?
The Keep my files option is designed to preserve personal files while reinstalling Windows and removing many applications and settings. However, it is not a substitute for a backup. Save your important data somewhere separate before starting.
5. Does a factory reset make Windows 10 faster?
A reset can improve performance when slowdowns are caused by unwanted applications, corrupted software, or problematic system settings. It will not necessarily solve performance problems caused by limited hardware resources, a failing drive, overheating, or other hardware issues.
Conclusion
Restoring a Windows 10 computer to factory settings can be an effective way to resolve persistent software problems, remove unwanted programs, or prepare a device for a new owner.
For most computers that still start normally, the simplest method is to open Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Reset this PC and follow the prompts.
Choose Keep my files if you want Windows to attempt to preserve personal files, or Remove everything if you want a fresh start. If Windows will not boot, try the Windows Recovery Environment. If the built-in recovery tools are damaged, official installation media or the manufacturer’s recovery tool may be necessary.
Most importantly, back up your files, check your recovery information, and review every option before confirming the reset. A little preparation can help you avoid unnecessary data loss and get your Windows 10 computer ready for its next use.
Key Takeaways
- Use Reset this PC to reinstall Windows 10 without needing a traditional installation disc in many cases.
- Choose Keep my files to attempt to preserve personal files, or Remove everything to delete them.
- Back up your data before beginning any reset or clean installation.
- Use Windows Recovery Environment if your computer cannot start normally.
- Use official Microsoft installation media or your manufacturer’s recovery tool if built-in recovery fails.
- For selling or transferring a computer, review the drive-cleaning options and take appropriate steps to protect your personal information.