Before You Start
Before performing a reset, always create a backup of documents, photos, project files, browser data, or anything important. Even if you choose the “Keep my files” option, a backup ensures nothing is accidentally lost.
Method 1: Reset Windows 10 from the Settings App
Step 1: Back up your important files
Store your data on an external drive or cloud storage. Reset features are reliable, but backups protect you from unexpected errors.
Step 2: Open the Settings app
You can open the Settings app in several ways:
- Press Windows + I
- Search for “Settings” from the Start menu
- Right-click the Start button and select Settings
Step 3: Go to Update & Security
On Windows 11, this option appears under System instead.
Step 4: Go to Recovery
Scroll down the left panel and click Recovery.
Step 5: Click “Get started” under Reset this PC
This begins the reset process. On Windows 11, you’ll see Reset PC instead.
Step 6: Choose what to keep
- Keep my files – Reinstalls Windows but keeps personal files
- Remove everything – Wipes all data (recommended if selling or giving the PC away)
If you choose to remove everything, you may also see an option to fully clean the drive. This securely erases data and is recommended for resale.
Step 7: Choose cloud download or local reinstall
- Cloud download – Downloads fresh Windows files (good for corrupted systems)
- Local reinstall – Uses files already stored on the computer (good for slow internet)
Step 8: Wait for the reset to complete
The computer will restart several times. Avoid turning it off manually during this process.
Method 2: Reset Windows 10 from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
Step 1: Back up your data
Just like in Method 1, make sure your files are backed up.
Step 2: Enter Windows Recovery Environment
You can enter WinRE easily:
- Click Start → Power
- Hold Shift and click Restart
Alternatively: Settings → Update & Security → Recovery → Restart now (under Advanced startup).
Step 3: Select Troubleshoot
This menu includes tools for repairing or restoring Windows.
Step 4: Click Reset this PC
This opens the same reset options available in the Settings app.
Step 5: Choose whether to keep files or remove everything
- Keep my files – Resets Windows without deleting personal data
- Remove everything – Completely wipes the system
Step 6: Choose the reinstall method
- Cloud download
- Local reinstall
Step 7: Complete the reset
The reset process may take between 20 minutes to over an hour depending on computer speed. Let Windows finish without interruption.
Final Thoughts
A factory reset is one of the most effective ways to fix performance issues, remove unwanted programs, and return your system to a clean, fresh state. Whether you use the Settings app or the Recovery Environment, Windows 10 makes the process quick and simple.