If you’re thinking about giving your Windows 10 PC a bit of a reboot, a system reset could be just what’s needed. It’s kind of like hitting refresh on your web browser, but for your entire computer — wiping out a bunch of bugs and slowing-down issues, and hopefully making everything snappy again. The catch is, it’s not always straightforward. Sometimes, your files get caught up in the process, or it doesn’t work the first time. But if you’re fed up with software glitches or random freezes, resetting can really do some good. Just keep in mind, you’ll need to follow the right steps, and having a backup of critical stuff is always smart before starting.
How to System Reset Windows 10
Resetting Windows 10 basically reinstalls the OS, fixing corrupted files or broken settings along the way. It’s a pretty handy fix for a slow or problematic system — the kind that refuses to behave, no matter how many tweaks or updates you try. Of course, it’s not magic; if hardware’s failing or a drive is dying, that’s a different story. But for software issues, a reset can bring your PC back from the dead. Here’s how to get it done, step by step — or at least the most common way.
Method 1: Using the Settings Menu — The “Official” Way
This method is the most straightforward, assuming Windows can boot up normally. It’s the way most people do it, through the familiar Settings interface. You might need to boot into Safe Mode if your system is acting wonky, but hopefully, you’re good to go. On some scenarios, Windows just refuses to start properly, and that’s where recovery options from a boot screen or recovery drive come in, but we’ll get to that next if needed.
Open Settings
- Click on the Windows icon (bottom left corner), or press Win + I.
- Select Settings — looks like a gear icon.
This is the usual control hub for your PC settings, and that’s where the reset options are hiding.
Navigate to Update & Security
- In Settings, click on Update & Security. It’s usually near the bottom of the window.
- This section handles Windows updates, troubleshooting tools, and recovery options.
Access Reset Options
- From the left sidebar, click on Recovery.
- In the main pane, you’ll see a section called Reset this PC.
Start the Reset Process
- Click on Get Started.
- Choose your reset style — whether you want to keep your personal files or wipe everything out.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Windows will likely ask you to confirm a few things and then restart the PC to kick off the process.
Honestly, on some setups, this can get a bit buggy — especially if your PC is already acting flaky — but usually, it just works. If Windows doesn’t boot normally, you might need to access the recovery menu manually by booting into Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).That can be done by forcing shutdown three times in a row or using a recovery drive, which is where a USB stick with the Windows recovery files comes in handy.
Choose the Reset Type
- Keep my files: Will remove apps and settings but leave your documents, pictures, downloads, etc. It’s the safer option if you’re just trying to fix a sluggish system without losing everything.
- Remove everything: Full wipe — good if you’re selling or giving away the PC, or if things are really messed up. Expect a clean slate afterward.
On some machines, selecting “Remove everything” can sometimes hang or fail if the drive is corrupted, so be prepared for that. If needed, boot into Windows RE and run the reset from there.
Follow Those Prompts and Wait
Windows does most of the heavy lifting here. It’s gonna reboot several times. It might tell you to remove external drives or disconnect peripherals — don’t ignore it. Could be a bit frustrating if it stalls, but usually, patience (or a forced shutdown and retry) sorts it out. Once done, your PC should be back on a fresh Windows 10, ready to go.
Tips for System Reset Windows 10
- Back up all your important files first — because you never know.
- Make sure your laptop or desktop is plugged into power if it’s a laptop — no one wants it dying halfway through.
- Have your Windows 10 installation media or recovery drive ready, just in case. You can create one from the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
- If your PC is really unresponsive, accessing the recovery options via boot (holding Shift + clicking Restart) might be quicker.
- Remember, resetting can’t fix hardware problems. If your hard drive is dying, this isn’t going to save your data or fix the drive’s physical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to my apps after a reset?
All apps you installed will be gone. Built-in Windows apps pop back up after, but third-party ones are wiped clean. So, you’ll need to reinstall everything later.
Can I undo a system reset?
Actually, no. Once you start the reset, it’s pretty much final. There’s no “undo” button. Double-check before confirming.
Will I lose my documents if I choose “Keep my files”?
Most personal files stay put, like documents, photos, etc. But all your installed apps and custom settings will reset. Think of it as a refresh, not a full wipe.
Do I need a recovery drive to reset my PC?
Not necessarily. If Windows can boot, you can do it right from Settings. But if it won’t start or is failing, a recovery drive really helps — you can create one on another Windows PC using the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
Does resetting Windows 10 remove viruses?
It can wipe out most software-based malware, but it’s not a guarantee. For really stubborn infections, run a good antivirus scan afterward. Resetting is more about fixing corrupt files and settings than a full malware removal tool.
Summary
- Head to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Pick your reset type — keep files or wipe everything
- Follow the prompts, wait for Windows to do its thing
Wrap-up
Resetting Windows 10 can be a game-changer if things get really buggy. It’s not perfect, especially if hardware problems are involved, but for software chaos, it’s a decent fix. Just remember to backup everything important before hitting that reset button — because once it starts, there’s no turning back. Usually, it’s smooth sailing after that, and you get a much cleaner, faster system at the end of it. Fingers crossed this helps anyone stuck in a loop of crashes or lag.