How to Reset Apps in Windows 11: Easy Step-by-Step Guide
Resetting an app in Windows 11 clears out all saved data and settings to put the program back to its original factory state. This built-in fix on Windows 11 version 22H2 and newer gives you a clean slate when an app freezes, crashes, or refuses to open.
You can also try repairing the app first from your settings to fix minor bugs without losing any saved files. If that does not work, clearing the app data starts the program fresh.
Open Settings , go to Apps, then Installed apps. Click the three dots next to the app, select Advanced options, and click Reset. This restores the app to its default state, deleting its data and settings.
How to Reset an App Using Windows Settings
You can reset apps Windows 11 through the main system settings to clear broken data and fix stubborn bugs without uninstalling the program. Open Settings and go to the apps menu to find the specific program you want to fix. This built-in tool clears out saved caches and temporary files that often cause crashes or freezing.
- Open the Settings app : Click the Start menu button (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner) and then click Settings. Or, press Win+I on your keyboard to open it quickly.

windows 11 new settings button Click the Start menu then select Settings or press Win+I. - In the Settings window, click Apps from the left side menu.

windows 11 settings apps on menu Click on Apps in the Settings menu. - Next, click on Installed apps (or it may say Apps & features) on the right side.

windows 11 apps and features tile Click Installed apps or Apps & features. - Find the app you want to reset. Click the three dots (More options) button next to that app, then click Advanced options.

windows 11 more advanced options button for app Click the three dots next to the app, then choose Advanced options. - In the Advanced options page, click the Terminate button to close the app completely.

windows 11 advanced options terminate button Click Terminate to stop the app and its background processes. - Now, click the Reset button.

windows 11 advanced options reset button Click Reset to start resetting the app. - When asked to confirm, click Reset again.

windows 11 advanced options reset button confirm Confirm the reset by clicking Reset again. - Wait a few moments. When done, you’ll see a checkmark next to the Reset button.

windows 11 advanced options reset sucessful The app has been reset successfully.
How to Reset Apps Using PowerShell (Advanced Users)
You can reset apps using PowerShell when the standard settings menu fails to show the option or the program refuses to open normally. This command-line tool lets you force a complete wipe and reinstall of stubborn built-in Windows programs by running specific text commands with administrator rights.
- Open PowerShell as an administrator: Search for PowerShell in the Start menu , right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
- Type the following command to see a list of all installed apps:
Get-AppxPackage | Select Name
Scroll through the list to find the app you want to reset. Note the exact name.
To reset the app, use this command, replacing AppName with the app’s name:
Get-AppxPackage *AppName* | Reset-AppxPackage
Example: To reset Microsoft Teams, run:
Get-AppxPackage *MicrosoftTeams* | Reset-AppxPackage
This will reset the app to its default settings.
Important Things to Remember
- Resetting an app deletes all its data and settings permanently. Make sure you back up anything important before you reset.
- If you just want to fix small problems, try repairing the app first instead of resetting.
- Using PowerShell is more advanced and should be done carefully.
- If you run into any problems or have tips, feel free to share in the comments below!
Resetting apps Windows 11 erases all saved personal data, login details, and custom preferences stored by the program. You should always try using the repair option first to fix minor issues without losing your files, and make sure you back up any important documents before you run a full reset.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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