How to Factory Reset Windows 11

Is your Windows 11 computer running slowly? Having problems? Planning to give it away or sell it? A factory reset might be the answer. When you factory reset your PC, it erases everything and returns it to like-new condition.

This guide shows you two simple ways to reset Windows 11. We’ll use the Settings app and the Command Prompt tool.

Why Reset Windows 11?

• Speed up your slow computer: Resetting can fix problems and make your PC faster.
• Remove personal information: If you’re selling or giving away your PC, resetting erases your files.
• Fix big problems: If your computer has malware or keeps crashing, resetting can help fix it.

Resetting your PC is a helpful way to fix issues and start fresh.

How to Reset Windows 11 Using the Settings App

This is the easiest method if your computer still works well enough to use.

1. Open Settings. Click the Start button (Windows icon) at the bottom left. Then click Settings.

2. In Settings, click System on the left side. Then select Recovery on the right.

3. Click the Reset PC button under “Reset this PC”.

You will see two options:

• Keep my files: Removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files safe.
• Remove everything: Deletes all your files, apps, and settings. It’s like a completely fresh start.

4. For a full reset, choose Remove everything.
5. Next, choose how to reinstall Windows. You have two options:

• Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows 11 from the internet. You need an internet connection.
• Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows from your PC’s files. You don’t need internet.

6. You can also click Change settings for extra options. For example:

• Clean data: If you’re giving away your PC, this option deletes files more securely. It takes longer.

7. Click Next. Then click Reset to start the process.

Note: This process takes time. Sometimes it takes hours. Be patient and don’t turn off your PC.

How to Reset Windows 11 Using Command Prompt

If you prefer typing commands or can’t open Settings, try this method.

1. Click the Search icon (magnifying glass) on the taskbar. Type Command Prompt.
2. FLAG: Requires admin privileges — Right-click the Command Prompt app. Choose Run as administrator.

3. In the black Command Prompt window, type this command and press Enter:

systemreset --factoryreset

This opens the same reset wizard you saw in Settings. Choose whether to keep your files or remove everything. Then follow the steps to finish.

Remember, removing everything takes more time. But it’s better if you want to safely erase your data before selling or giving away your PC.

Summary

• Fix slow or broken PC: Resetting can make your computer faster and fix problems.
• Erase personal data: Good if you’re selling or giving away your PC.
• Recover from errors: Can fix malware or big system issues.
• Choose what to keep: Keep your files or wipe everything.
• Two ways to reset: Use Settings or Command Prompt.
• Take your time: Resetting can take a while. This is especially true when deleting everything.

By following these easy steps, you can reset your Windows 11 PC. Start fresh or prepare it for a new owner.