In this article, we will show you how to reset PC to factory settings to fix performance issues, remove viruses, and restore your computer to its original state.

At some point, you might encounter performance issues on your computer that seem hard to fix. Or maybe you want to give your old PC a fresh start. Resetting your PC to factory settings is often the best solution.

Whether you’re preparing to sell your computer, troubleshooting persistent problems, or simply looking for a clean slate, resetting to factory settings is a great way to restore your Windows PC to its original state.

Here we will walk you through how to reset your PC to factory settings with ease.

See Also: 3 Methods to Connect Xbox Controller to PC

What Does Factory Reset Mean?

A factory reset is a process that restores your computer to its original settings, erasing any data, files, apps, and programs that were added since you first got your PC. It’s essentially like starting with a brand-new computer. However, it’s crucial to back up your important data before proceeding, as a factory reset will wipe everything from your computer’s hard drive.

Why Should You Reset Your PC?

You may want to reset your PC for several reasons, including:

• Fixing performance issues: Over time, your PC might become sluggish due to outdated software, too many apps, or junk files. A factory reset removes these, offering improved performance.
• Eliminating viruses and malware: If your PC has been infected with a virus or malware that’s hard to remove, a factory reset can wipe out the infection completely.
• Preparing to sell or donate: Resetting your PC ensures that all your personal data is erased before handing it over to someone else.
• Starting fresh: A reset can be a great way to remove unnecessary programs and clean up your system.

See Also: 2 Ways to Add Bluetooth to PC without it

How to Reset a Windows 10 PC to Factory Settings

Step 1: Backup Your Files

Before you reset your Windows PC, it’s essential to back up your data. A factory reset will erase everything, including documents, photos, and applications. You can use external storage, cloud services like OneDrive, or a dedicated backup solution to save your important files.

Step 2: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start Menu (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
2. Select Settings (the gear icon).

Step 3: Navigate to Recovery

1. In the Settings window, click on Update & Security.
2. In the left sidebar, select Recovery.

Step 4: Begin the Reset Process

Under the Reset this PC section, click on Get Started. You’ll be prompted with two options:

• Keep my files: This option removes apps and settings but retains your personal files.
• Remove everything: This option removes all files, apps, and settings, essentially returning your PC to factory settings.

If you want a complete reset (and are ready to erase everything), select Remove everything.

See Also: 3 Ways to See Mutual Friends on Snapchat

Step 5: Choose a Reset Option

Once you’ve chosen to remove everything, you’ll be asked to select one of the following options:

• Just remove my files: This option is quicker and less thorough. It simply deletes your files without fully wiping the drive.
• Remove files and clean the drive: This option is more secure and takes longer. It wipes the drive completely, making it harder to recover any data.

For a fresh start, we recommend choosing Remove files and clean the drive, especially if you’re planning to sell or give away your Windows PC.

Step 6: Reset and Wait

Once you’ve selected your preferred option, click Reset to begin the process. The reset will take some time, and your Windows PC will restart several times during the process. Be patient—this is normal.

See Also: 5 Steps to Uninstall Wuthering Waves on PC

How to Reset a Windows 11 PC to Factory Settings

The process for resetting Windows 11 is similar to Windows 10, but with a few minor differences.

Step 1: Backup Your Files

Before starting, back up your files to avoid losing important documents, photos, or videos.

Step 2: Open Settings

1. Click on the Start Menu (Windows icon).
2. Select Settings.

Step 3: Go to System and Recovery

1. In the Settings window, click on System.
2. Scroll down and select Recovery under System.

Step 4: Start the Reset

Under the Reset this PC section, click on Reset PC. You’ll be asked whether you want to Keep my files or Remove everything. Select Remove everything if you want a fresh start.

Step 5: Select How to Reinstall Windows

Next, you’ll be prompted to select how you want to reinstall Windows:

• Cloud download: This option downloads the latest version of Windows from the cloud.
• Local reinstall: This option reinstalls Windows using files stored locally on your Windows PC.

Choose the option that works best for you. Cloud download is usually the best option if you want to ensure you’re getting the latest version of Windows.

See Also: 4 Steps to Unblock on Snapchat

Step 6: Complete the Reset

Click Next, then follow the on-screen prompts to finish the process. Windows will reset and may restart multiple times during the process.

What Happens After a Factory Reset?

Once the reset is complete, your Windows PC will be like new. The setup process will be similar to when you first turned it on. You’ll need to go through the usual steps:

• Set up your user account.
• Connect to Wi-Fi.
• Reinstall apps and programs.
• Restore your files from backup.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Backup before resetting: Always make sure to back up your data. A factory reset will remove everything from your PC.
• Resetting takes time: Be patient! The process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on your PC’s performance and the reset options you chose.
• Reinstalling apps: After the reset, you’ll need to reinstall any programs or apps you were using.

See Also: 4 Easy Steps to Unpin Someone on Snapchat

Conclusion

Resetting your PC to factory settings can breathe new life into your computer, fix issues, or prepare it for a new owner. Whether you’re dealing with slow performance, software errors, or just want a clean start, a factory reset can restore your PC to its original, optimized state. Just make sure to back up your files before you begin!

If you’re ready to reset your PC, follow the simple steps outlined in this guide, and you’ll be back up and running in no time.

Share This Post: