How to Reset Windows 10 A Complete Guide for All UsersResetting your Windows 10 PC can solve many performance issues, fix system errors, and help you start fresh. Whether your device is running slowly, infected with malware, or you’re planning to sell or donate it, a system reset can bring Windows 10 back to a clean state. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to reset your PC safely and effectively.
What Does Resetting Windows 10 Do?
Before proceeding, it’s important to understand what a reset involves. Resetting Windows 10 reinstalls the operating system, removing installed applications and settings. You can choose to keep or remove your personal files. The reset process essentially restores Windows to its factory default condition.
When Should You Reset Windows 10?
Here are some common situations where resetting your PC can help
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The system is too slow or freezing frequently
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You’re experiencing software or driver conflicts
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A virus or malware attack has corrupted your files
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You’re preparing to sell or give away your PC
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System errors persist even after updates or troubleshooting
Things to Do Before Resetting
A reset can’t be undone, so it’s wise to take the following steps before starting
Backup Your Data
Even if you choose to keep your files during the reset, it’s best to back them up to an external drive or cloud storage.
Note Down Software Licenses
Some applications require license keys for reactivation. Keep these saved somewhere safe.
Disconnect External Devices
Unplug any USB drives, printers, or peripherals that aren’t necessary during the reset.
How to Reset Windows 10 from Settings
The easiest way to reset your Windows 10 computer is through the Settings menu.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Open Settings Click the Start menu and select Settings (gear icon).
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Go to Update & Security Click on Update & Security, then select Recovery from the left sidebar.
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Start the Reset Process Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
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Choose an Option You will see two options
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Keep my files Removes apps and settings, but keeps personal files.
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Remove everything Deletes all files, apps, and settings.
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Follow the Prompts Windows will guide you through the rest. Confirm your choices and click Reset.
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Wait for Completion The PC will restart multiple times during the reset. It may take up to an hour depending on your system.
Reset Windows 10 Using Advanced Startup
If your PC isn’t booting properly or you’re stuck in a loop, you can reset Windows from the recovery environment.
How to Access Advanced Startup
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Hold Shift while clicking Restart from the Start menu
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Or, power on and off the PC 2-3 times to trigger automatic recovery mode
Then Follow These Steps
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On the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot
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Click Reset this PC
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Choose either Keep my files or Remove everything
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Proceed with the reset as instructed
Reset Windows 10 Using a Bootable USB
If your system won’t load at all, you can use a bootable USB drive to perform a reset.
What You Need
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A working computer
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A USB drive (at least 8GB)
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Windows 10 Media Creation Tool
Steps
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Create Bootable USB Use the Media Creation Tool to create a Windows 10 installation USB.
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Boot from USB Insert the USB into your PC and boot from it (change boot order in BIOS if needed).
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Choose Install Options Select language and region, then click Repair your computer instead of Install now.
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Navigate to Reset Choose Troubleshoot, then Reset this PC, and proceed with the options available.
What Happens After the Reset?
Once the reset is complete, Windows 10 will restart with either your personal files intact or as a fresh install, depending on the option you chose. You’ll need to
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Reinstall applications
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Reconnect to Wi-Fi and other networks
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Restore your files from backup
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Reconfigure system settings if needed
Common Issues During Reset and How to Solve Them
PC Stuck During Reset
If your PC freezes during reset, wait at least an hour. If nothing changes, restart the system and try again.
Reset Fails with an Error
This could be due to corrupted files. You may need to use a bootable USB and perform a clean install.
Can’t Access Reset Options
Try entering Safe Mode or use the recovery environment from a bootable drive.
Alternatives to Resetting Windows 10
If you’re not ready for a full reset, consider these options
System Restore
Restore your computer to a previous point when it was working fine. This won’t affect your personal files.
Fresh Start
Previously available in Windows Security, this feature reinstalls Windows while keeping personal data and some settings.
Clean Install
You can perform a clean install using a bootable USB. It removes everything and gives you a completely fresh system.
Resetting Windows 10 can resolve many performance and software issues. Whether you want to start fresh or fix a problem, the built-in reset options are straightforward and accessible. Always back up your important data before starting, and be prepared to reinstall apps afterward. With a few clicks, you can give your computer a new lease on life and enjoy smoother performance.