Resetting Windows 10 to factory settings isn’t just for those major problems that can’t be fixed otherwise — it’s also a quick way to give your PC a fresh start, especially if it’s running slow, acting weird, or just hasn’t been the same since you installed a bunch of different stuff. Yeah, of course, it wipes out your files if you’re not careful, so backing things up is a no-brainer. But honestly, if you want to get rid of bloatware, fix stubborn errors, or prep the device for a new owner, this process is pretty effective. Just know that the “Reset this PC” feature is layered behind a couple of menus, and it’s not always obvious where everything is or what options to pick — that’s where this guide comes in. Expect some downtime, but once it’s done, you’ll pretty much have a clean slate to start fresh.
How to Reset Windows 10 to Factory Settings
Accessing the Reset Option and What to Expect
First thing — you’ll find the reset option in the Settings app. It’s under Update & Security, then Recovery. On some setups, this can be buried, especially if your system is a bit tweaked or a OEM-installed version with customized menus. Not sure why it works, but on a handful of laptops, clicking through sometimes takes a couple of tries to get to the right spot. Once you’re there, click or tap on Get started under Reset this PC. The interface will ask whether you want to keep your files or remove everything. And that’s where the choice gets real — because keeping files isn’t a full reset and might not solve deeply ingrained issues, but it’s faster and less destructive. If you want a true fresh start, go for “Remove everything.”
Method 1: Resetting via Settings
- Open Start menu and click the gear icon to open Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, hit the Get started button.
- Choose Remove everything if you want a complete wipe, or Keep my files if you’re just trying to troubleshoot or clean up.
- Follow the prompts. If removing everything, you might be asked if you want to clean the drive thoroughly or just remove files quickly. On the one hand, choosing “clean the drive” takes longer but helps prevent recovery of files — useful if you’re selling or passing on the device.
- Your PC will restart, and the reset will begin. On some machines, there’s a weird moment where it just sits there, or you see the spinning circle for a while, especially if it’s a big drive or slow SSD. Be patient — it may take around 20 minutes to a couple of hours, depending.
Method 2: Using Advanced Startup (if normal route is flaky)
Sometimes, the normal reset isn’t working, or Windows is too broken to even get to the Settings menu. In that case, try booting into Advanced Startup options. Restart your PC and keep pressing Shift + F8 during startup, or force shutdown 3 times (hard shutdown with power button) to trigger automatic repair mode. Once there, go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. From here, same options apply — keep files or erase everything. This route sometimes helps if your system’s in a weird state or if Windows just refuses to open normally.
Tip: Prepare for the Reset
Before diving in, double-check your backups or cloud sync for important stuff. Resetting erases everything if you pick that option, and even keeping files doesn’t save installed programs — they’ll have to be reinstalled later. Also, make sure your device is plugged in, because losing power mid-reset can cause bigger headaches than you want.
Post-Reset Step
After the reset finishes, Windows will walk you through initial setup — choosing language, privacy, and account info. If it asks for product keys or licenses for Windows or software, have them handy. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary. Once done, you’re back to a clean system — faster, leaner, and hopefully happier.
Tips for a Smoother Reset Process
- Back up all important data, just in case. Better safe than sorry.
- Keep your PC on power during the whole process.
- If you’re removing everything, be ready to reinstall your favorite programs afterward.
- If it feels stuck or takes forever, try forcing a shutdown and starting again — sometimes it’s just a glitch.
- Read the prompts carefully, especially if it asks about drive cleaning or resetting settings. It’s easy to miss the significance of choosing one over the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will resetting Windows 10 erase my personal files?
If you choose “Keep my files, ” your docs, pictures, and stuff should stay put. But anything installed or changed outside of default OS files will likely go. Picking “Remove everything” is the nuclear option — everything is wiped, so back things up first.
How long does it take to reset?
Depends on the machine and options. Expect anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour, especially if you pick to thoroughly clean the drive or have a lot of data.
Is an internet connection needed?
Not for the reset itself, but after it completes, you’ll probably want to connect to download Windows updates and drivers. Some reset options even re-download system files during the process, so a connection here helps.
Can I stop a reset midway?
Better not. Interrupting the reset can brick the system or cause corruption. Wait it out if possible.
Will I lose my programs?
Yes, all non-Windows programs are removed. You’ll need to reinstall them afterward. Make a list or take screenshots if you want, easier than re-guessing what’s installed.
Summary
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
- Hit Get started under Reset this PC
- Pick whether to keep files or wipe everything
- Follow the prompts and wait it out
Wrap-up
Resetting Windows 10 can be surprisingly straightforward once you know where to find everything. Yeah, sometimes it feels like Windows intentionally makes it harder than it should, but once it’s rolling, it’s mostly just patience. Expect some time investment, but in the end, you get a cleaner, hopefully faster system that’s ready for whatever’s next. If this gets one step closer to resolving an issue, that’s a win — and hey, maybe it even helps someone avoid calling tech support. Fingers crossed, this helps someone save time and hassle.