Reset Windows 10 PC

Oct 31st 2023

Note: Before proceeding, make sure to back up all your important data as resetting your computer will erase everything on the system drive.

Step 1: Open Settings

  1. Click on the Start button (Windows icon) in the lower-left corner of your desktop.
  2. Click on the Settings icon, which looks like a gearwheel. It should be on the left side of the Start menu.

Step 1

Step 2: Access Update & Security

  1. In the Settings window, click on the Update & Security option.

Step 2

Step 3: Choose Recovery

  1. In the Update & Security window, select the Recovery tab from the left sidebar.

Step 3

Step 4: Reset This PC

  1. Under the "Reset this PC" section, click the Get started button.

Step 4

Step 5: Choose Reset Option

  1. You'll be presented with two options:
    • Keep my files: This option will remove apps and settings but keep your personal files.
    • Remove everything: This option will remove all your personal files, apps, and settings.

    Choose the one that suits your needs. If you want to reset your computer to its original state, select "Remove everything."

Step 5

Step 6: Choose a Target Drive

  1. Windows will ask you whether you want to Just remove my files (quicker) or Remove files and clean the drive (more secure but takes longer). Select your preference.

Step 6

Step 7: Confirm the Reset

  1. Windows will provide you with a summary of what will happen when you reset your PC. Review the information, and if you're ready to proceed, click the Reset button.

Step 7

Step 8: Wait for the Reset

  1. Your computer will now begin the reset process. It may take some time, and your computer will restart several times.

Step 9: Set Up Windows 10

  1. Once the reset is complete, you'll be greeted with the initial Windows 10 setup screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your computer as if it were a brand new one.

Step 10: Restore Your Files

  1. If you chose the "Keep my files" option in Step 5, you can now restore your personal files from your backup.

That's it! You've successfully reset your Windows 10 computer to its original settings. Remember to reinstall any software or applications you need, and restore your files from backup if necessary.