Reset this PC reinstalls Windows and can help with serious software problems or prepare a computer for a new owner. Windows 11 lets you choose whether to keep your personal files or remove everything, and whether to reinstall from local files or download a fresh Windows image from the cloud.
Before You Reset Windows 11
Back up important files before starting. Resetting removes apps and settings, and the Remove everything option also removes personal files. If the PC uses device encryption or BitLocker, make sure you can access the recovery key before beginning.
How to Reset a Windows 11 PC
- Open Settings.
- Select System.
- Select Recovery.
- Under Recovery options, select Reset PC next to Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
- Choose Cloud download or Local reinstall.
- Review the additional settings and the summary of what Windows will remove.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to begin the reset.
Keep My Files vs. Remove Everything
Keep my files reinstalls Windows while preserving personal files, but it removes installed apps and resets settings. Remove everything removes personal files as well as apps and settings, making it the more appropriate starting option when preparing a consumer PC for another person.
Cloud Download vs. Local Reinstall
Cloud download retrieves a fresh copy of Windows and is useful when local Windows files may be damaged. Local reinstall uses files already on the PC and can be faster when internet access is slow or limited.
Do Not Interrupt the Reset
Microsoft warns that the screen can remain black for an extended period and the PC may restart itself during resetting. Do not force the computer off simply because the display stays black for several minutes; interrupting the process can cause the reset to fail.
If Windows Will Not Start
Reset this PC is also available from Windows Recovery Environment. If the device is encrypted, Windows RE may require the BitLocker recovery key before you can continue.
Summary
In Windows 11, go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC. Back up first, have your recovery key available, then choose carefully between Keep my files/Remove everything and Cloud download/Local reinstall.