How to Reset My Computer in Windows 11

08.12.2025 Smith, Erin Comments Off

When your PC slows down, crashes frequently, or becomes unstable, you may start looking for how to reset my computer safely. Windows 11 offers multiple reset options that can restore system performance and fix software issues. However, many users accidentally choose the wrong reset mode and lose personal files during the process. The good news is that even if your data was deleted after a reset, you still have a chance to recover it. This guide explains how to reset your computer properly and how to recover lost files using Magic Data Recovery after the reset is complete.

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Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Windows Server

Why You May Need to Reset Your Computer

Windows may require a reset for several reasons:

① Persistent system errors or constant freezing

② Performance drops after updates or driver conflicts

③ Malware infections affecting system stability

④ Corrupted system files causing crashes

⑤ Preparing the computer for a new user

A reset often fixes these issues, but some reset options remove apps, settings, and personal files. If you selected the wrong option by mistake, recovery is still possible.

How to Reset My Computer in Windows 11 Using Built-In Tools

Below are the primary methods Windows 11 provides for resetting your PC.

1. Reset This PC (Recommended Method)

This feature lets you reinstall Windows with or without removing your personal files.

Steps:

① Open Settings → System → Recovery

② Click Reset this PC

③ Select Keep my files or Remove everything

④ Choose Cloud download or Local reinstall

⑤ Confirm and wait for the reset to finish

Tip: Cloud download provides a fresh Windows copy and helps if the system is corrupted.

2. Reset Through Advanced Startup

Use this when Windows cannot boot normally.

Steps:

① Press and hold Shift, then click Restart

② Choose Troubleshoot

③ Select Reset this PC

④ Choose your preferred reset mode

3. Manufacturer Factory Reset

Some devices allow factory resets via keys such as F11 or F12 during startup.

These restore the system to its original state with factory-installed software.

4. Reset Using Windows Installation Media

If the system cannot load, you can reset it using a USB installer.

Steps:

① Create Windows 11 installation media

② Boot from the USB

③ Select Repair your computer

④ Choose Troubleshoot → Reset this PC

What If I Lost Files After Resetting My Computer?

Many users accidentally click Remove everything instead of Keep my files, or they discover missing documents, photos, and app data after the reset process completes. Although Windows does not provide a built-in way to undo a reset, your files are often still recoverable—especially if the data has not been overwritten.

This is where Magic Data Recovery becomes extremely helpful.

How to Recover Data After Resetting Your Computer

Magic Data Recovery performs a non-destructive scan, allowing you to extract data safely from a resetting computer.

Step-by-Step Recovery Process

①. Download and Install: Get Magic Data Recovery from the official website and install it on your computer.

Download Magic Data Recovery

Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Windows Server

②. Select the Drive: Launch the software and choose your drive from where you lost files.

③. Start the Scan: Click “Search for Lost Data” to begin. It will start Quick Scan first then Deep scan to find more lost files.

④. Preview and Select: Browse and preview the found files after the scan.

⑤. Recover: Select the files you need and save them to a different drive (not the one your lost files from).

You can also watch the video to learn about the usage steps of Magic Data Recovery.

Conclusion

Understanding how to reset my computer helps you resolve system issues while minimizing risk. Windows 11 offers several reset options suitable for different situations. However, if you accidentally lose files after resetting, you can still recover them.

To restore your important data safely, you can download Magic Data Recovery and attempt to bring back files lost during or after a Windows reset.

Download Magic Data Recovery

Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and Windows Server

FAQs

1. How do I factory reset my computer?

You can factory reset your computer through Settings → System → Recovery → Reset this PC. Choose Remove everything if you want a complete factory-style reset. Then select either Cloud download or Local reinstall to reinstall Windows. After confirming, the system will begin the reset process automatically.

2. Is F11 or F12 factory reset?

This depends on the manufacturer. Many brands use F11 to open the recovery environment for a factory reset, while F12 often opens the boot menu. For Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS, and others, the recovery key may vary, so checking your device’s documentation is recommended.

3. How do I wipe my computer and start again?

To completely wipe your computer and start fresh, go to Settings → System → Recovery → Reset this PC and select Remove everything. This option deletes all personal files, applications, and settings. If Windows cannot boot, you can wipe the computer through the Windows Recovery Environment or by using installation media.

4. How to do a factory reset?

A factory reset reinstalls Windows and removes all personal data. Simply open Settings, go to System → Recovery, and click Reset this PC. Choose Remove everything, then select Cloud download or Local reinstall. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

5. How to factory reset laptop Windows 11?

On a Windows 11 laptop, open Settings, go to System → Recovery, and select Reset this PC. Choose whether to keep your files or remove everything. For a full factory reset, select Remove everything, then choose your reinstall method. Windows will perform the reset automatically.

6. How to factory reset laptop Windows 10?

In Windows 10, go to Settings → Update & Security → Recovery. Under Reset this PC, click Get started. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything. Selecting Remove everything performs a full factory reset similar to Windows 11.

7. How do I force my laptop to factory reset?

If Windows will not boot normally, you can force a reset through Advanced Startup. Turn on the laptop, then repeatedly press the manufacturer’s recovery key (often F11, F12, or Esc). Choose Troubleshoot → Reset this PC, and select your reset option. This method works even when the desktop is inaccessible.

8. Does Windows 11 factory reset delete everything?

It depends on the option you choose. Keep my files preserves personal files but removes apps and settings. Remove everything deletes all personal data, installed programs, and system settings. If you accidentally choose the wrong option, you may still recover lost files using a professional tool like Magic Data Recovery.

9. How to do a full factory reset on a Windows 11 laptop?

To perform a complete factory reset on a Windows 11 laptop, open Settings → System → Recovery, select Reset this PC, and choose Remove everything. Then pick Cloud download or Local reinstall. This process removes all files and reinstalls Windows as if the device were new.

Smith, Erin

Erin Smith is recognized as one of the most professional writers at Amagicsoft. She has continually honed her writing skills over the past 10 years and helped millions of readers solve their tech problems.

How to Reset My Computer in Windows 11

Table of Contents

Why You May Need to Reset Your Computer