How to reset Windows 11 or Windows 10

July 7 2022 9:36pm • Est. Read Time: 2 MIN

Windows 11


Microsoft has shared a range of methods to reset or recover Windows 11 installations with or without removing data.  We've provided a step by step guide on one of the more common reset scenarios, getting back to a clean starting state:

When you reset Windows you are going back to square one, you're essentially starting from scratch since resetting means that all your programs, data, and settings will be permanently erased.  It is important to back up any data you want to preserve before starting this process.  

1. Type Settings in the search bar, and click on the Settings option under Best match

2. Click System


3. Click Recovery on the right hand side


4. Click the Reset PC button under Reset this PC 


5. The Reset this PC window will open. You’ll be presented with two options. Click the second option, Remove everything


The window below will appear, do not click Cancel unless you want to interrupt the process.


6. Click Next to continue


7. Removing Windows is a destructive process, meaning you will lose all data and applications.  So Windows is confirming again that you want to remove the program. Click Reset


Your Laptop will now restart.  This will take a few minutes.  The process will be complete once your Laptop restarts. 


Windows 10


Microsoft has shared a range of methods to reset or recover Windows 10 installations with or without removing data.  We've provided a step by step guide on one of the more common reset scenarios, getting back to a clean starting state:

When you reset Windows you are going back to square one, you're essentially starting from scratch since resetting means that all your programs, data, and settings will be permanently erased.  It is important to back up any data you want to preserve before starting this process.  

1. Type Settings in the search bar, and click on the Settings option under Best match

2. Click Update and Security


3. Click Recovery on the left hand side


4. Click the Get started button under Reset this PC 


5. The Reset this PC window will open. You’ll be presented with two options. Click the second option, Remove everything


The window below will appear, do not click Cancel unless you want to interrupt the process.


6. Click Next to continue


7. Removing Windows is a destructive process, meaning you will lose all data and applications.  So Windows is confirming again that you want to remove the program. Click Reset


Your Laptop will now restart.  This will take a few minutes.  The process will be complete once your Laptop restarts. 


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