In this guide, we will discuss how to reset Windows 11 without losing data. There may be many reasons why you might need to reset your Windows 11 to factory settings. Perhaps you are experiencing issues with the operating system or encountering errors on your system, among other reasons. Here’s how you can resolve these issues by resetting your Windows 11 to factory settings without losing your files.
Windows 11 has a reset feature that allows you to reset your PC without losing your data. All your files, folders, photos, music, and other personal content will remain intact on your hard drive or SSD.
How to Reset Windows 11 without Losing Data
If your Windows 11 PC is experiencing problems, showing strange errors, or you want to return it to its default state, follow these steps to reset Windows 11 while keeping your files:
If you prefer a video tutorial, you can follow the video mentioned below.
1. On Windows 11, we get a centered taskbar, click on the Windows icon to open the Start Menu.
2. Now look for the Settings app and open it.
3. In the Settings window, click on the System tab from the left panel of the Settings window.
4. Then, look for an option called Recovery and click on that option present to the right of your screen.
5. Here, you will find the Windows 11 recovery options. If you’re having problems with your PC or want to reset it, these recovery options might help. To reset your Windows 11 PC to factory settings, click the Reset PC option.
6. A window will pop up. Click on the Keep My Files option if you don’t want to lose your data. However, all of your settings will return to their default state, and third-party apps will be uninstalled.
Note
If you want to delete all the data and reset your computer to its default state, you can select the Remove Everything option. Before doing so, make sure to back up your important files.
7. After that, select how you would like to reinstall Windows. If you choose Cloud Download, Windows 11 will be downloaded and reinstalled without deleting any of your files. Additionally, this option ensures you get the latest Windows 11 build on your system. If you don’t have an active internet connection, you can choose Local Reinstall instead.
8. On the next screen, you will see the Additional Settings window. Here, confirm your current settings and then click Next to continue.
9. Then you will get new windows that say Getting things ready, wait until you get the Ready to rest this PC window. Here you’ll find the list of software that will uninstall from your Windows 11.
10. Finally, click the Reset button to restore your Windows 11 to its default settings.
Conclusion
After your PC resets, it will reboot into Windows, where you can set it up like a new PC. When you log in, you’ll notice that your settings have been reset, but your files will remain on your system. That’s it! This is how you can reset your Windows 11 without losing any data.
However, if you are on the latest build of Windows 11, you can also use the Fix Problems Using Windows Update feature. This will reinstall your current version of Windows without deleting apps, and your settings will be preserved. This is helpful for fixing current corrupt system files and issues with the Windows operating system.
