How to Reset Your Windows 10

Microsoft Windows includes a valuable built-in feature known as System Restore. This feature enables Windows users to revert their computer's current state to a previous point in time, referred to as a Restore Point. By utilizing System Restore, users can effectively recover from system malfunctions or other operating system problems that may arise, providing a reliable method for restoring their system to a stable and functional state.

How to restore Your Windows 10

Within System Restore, Windows users have the flexibility to manually create new restore points, while the system also generates restore points automatically. Users can choose to roll back to existing restore points or modify the System Restore configuration as needed. This feature proves highly beneficial in cases where installed programs encounter issues, as System Restore can effectively rectify any malfunctions. Moreover, if critical system elements such as the registry, system scripts, batch files, or other system files become corrupted, System Restore serves to restore them to their previous functional state, ensuring the system operates smoothly and reliably.

When you recover Windows 10 from a drive:

  1. All personal files and user account on your PC will be removed.

  2. Any apps and programs that didn't come with your PC will be removed.

  3. Windows 10 will be reinstall the version of Windows that came with your PC.

  4. If you've repartitioned your system drive, this will restore its default partitions.

The Windows operating system offers several options to restore your computer to an earlier state. To determine the appropriate recovery option, consider the following methods:

  1. Reset your PC
  2. Restore from a system restore point
  3. Remove an installed Windows update
  4. Use a recovery drive to restore or reset your PC
  5. Use installation media to restore or reset your PC
  6. Use installation media to reinstall Windows 10
  7. Go back to your previous version of Windows

How to Reset your Windows 10 PC?

Navigate to Settings. You will get there by clicking the gear icon on windows Start.

windows 10 settings

Select "Update & security"

windows 10 update security

Click Recovery in the left pane.

windows 10 recovery

From Recovery screen, you will get three major options:

  1. Reset this PC : This is the best option for starting fresh.

  2. Go back to an earlier build : This option is made for Windows Insiders who want to roll back to a previous version of the OS.

  3. Advanced startup : This option lets you boot off a recovery USB drive or disc.
windows 10 recovery options

In order to get a fresh reset, click Get started under Reset this PC.

windows 10 restart

In the Windows operating system, during the restoration process, you are presented with two options: "Keep my files" or "Remove everything." Opting for "Keep my files" will reset Windows to its default state, removing any installed apps and settings, but your personal files will remain unaffected. On the other hand, selecting "Remove everything" will result in the erasure of all data, including your personal files, providing a complete reset to the system's original state. It's crucial to make a careful choice between these options based on your specific needs and the importance of preserving your personal data.

windows 10 options

Before proceeding with the restoration process, please consider the following crucial steps. First, ensure that you have backed up all your important personal data and software to prevent any data loss during the recovery. Once you have securely backed up your data, you can confidently click on either "Just remove my files" or "Fully clean the drive" based on your specific requirements. Exercise caution and be certain of your decision, as this process will impact the data on your computer. Always prioritize data safety and preparedness before proceeding with any significant system changes.

windows 10 remove files

If you get a warning message, click Next to continue.

windows 10 warnings

Clicking on the Reset button will start the process, which you will not be able to interrupt, so proceed only when you are sure about it.

windows 10 reset

Click Continue when prompted.

windows 10 recovery

Conclusion

Windows 10 System Restore is a built-in feature that enables users to revert their computer's state to a previous point in time known as a Restore Point. This helpful tool allows users to recover from system malfunctions, operating system issues, or other problems by restoring their system to a stable and functional state.