This option requires over 4GB of available storage space, but it is meant to be a faster and more reliable alternative to booting from a USB stick. Choose Local reinstall if you prefer the more hands-on approach of installing Windows from local storage.įor an an easier route, click Cloud download to pull files directly from Microsoft's servers. Reinstall Optionsīefore you can hit the reset button, you must determine how to reinstall Windows. If your drive is beyond saving or you plan to get rid of the computer, select Remove everything, which wipes the drive clean by removing downloaded apps, settings, and personal files. This will preserve your personal files and is recommended if you are trying to roll back an issue. On either OS, you can choose Keep my files to remove only downloaded apps and settings. Click Reset PC next to the Reset this PC option. In Windows 11, open Settings > System > Recovery (or Settings > Windows Updates > Advanced options > Recovery).

Under Settings, click Update & Security > Recovery, then select Get started under Reset this PC. You can also select the Settings app from the app list. In Windows 10, click the Start menu and select the gear icon in the lower left to open up the Settings window. PCMag-Recommended Windows Accessories Reset Windows 10

Windows factory reset