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Reset Windows but keep your files (Reset this PC)

Step 1 of 3

Open Settings › System › Recovery › Reset PC

Back up important files to a flash drive or the cloud first, just in case.

The simulation shows Windows in English, like most laptops.

  1. Open Settings › System › Recovery › Reset PC

    Back up important files to a flash drive or the cloud first, just in case.

    SettingsSystemRecoveryReset PC

  2. Choose Keep my files

    Documents, photos and the desktop stay. All apps are removed.

  3. Choose Cloud download, then Reset

    Windows downloads a fresh copy and reinstalls (30–90 minutes). Plug in the charger.

    Write down the apps you need to reinstall before you start.
Technical details (for the curious)

Keep my files vs Remove everything

Keep my files reinstalls Windows and its built-in apps and keeps the files in your user folders. Remove everything wipes it all; use it only before selling or giving the laptop away.

Cloud download vs Local reinstall

Cloud download (about 4–5 GB) uses fresh files from Microsoft, best when system files are damaged. Local reinstall uses files already on the laptop and is faster without internet.

After the reset

Run Windows Update until there is nothing left, install drivers from the laptop maker’s site, then reinstall your apps. A “Removed Apps” file on the desktop lists what was removed.

Coming soon

Still not fixed?

In the next update you can tell us what happened, and our AI helper will suggest another way. Until then, restart the device and go through the steps once more.