Windows will erase everything on the drive and then return your computer back to the exact state it was in when you first purchased in. This option only shows up on some computers and isn't reflected in the screenshot example above.Ĭhoose Restore factory settings to remove your personal files, remove all installed software, and reinstall the operating system and preinstalled software that originally came with your computer. You may need to reconfigure some custom settings and you will need to reinstall any software you want again. When complete, Windows will appear much like when you first bought your computer or installed it yourself. Windows will erase everything on the drive its installed onto and then reinstall itself from scratch. You may need to reconfigure some custom settings, and you will need to reinstall any software you want again, but your saved files will be waiting for you.Ĭhoose Remove everything to remove your personal files, remove all installed software and apps, and reinstall Windows 11/10 from scratch.

Windows will back up your personal data and tuck it away safely while it reinstalls itself from scratch. This is a very important choice, so we want to make sure you completely understand what you're doing before you move forward:Ĭhoose Keep my files to keep your personal files, remove all installed software and apps, and reinstall Windows 11/10 from scratch. In Windows 11 and 10, this is the Reset This PC screen you'll see next, headed with Choose an option.Ĭhoose either Keep my files, Remove everything, or Restore factory settings to continue.

Reset my pc