Windows 10 More...Less
Resetting your PClets you perform a clean reinstallation and update of Windows while keeping your personal data and most Windows settings intact. In some cases, a clean installation may improve your device'sperformance, security, browsing experience, and battery life.
Windows 11Windows 10
To reset your PC, go to Start> Settings > System> Recovery . Next toReset this PC , select Reset PC. Then, select Keep my files, choose cloud or local, change your settings, and set Restore preinstalled apps?to No.
Open Recovery settings
Note:If you don't see the option to Restore preinstalled apps, it means your PC doesn't have preinstalled apps configured.
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To reset your PC, go to Start> Settings > Update & Security> Recovery > Reset this PC > Get Started. Then, select Keep my files, choose cloud or local, change your settings, and set Restore preinstalled apps?to No.
Open Recovery settings
Note:If you don't see the option to Restore preinstalled apps, it means your PC doesn't have preinstalled apps configured.
In versions of Windows 10 prior to version 2004 this feature was called Fresh Startand to use it you'dselect Start > Settings > Update & security > Windows Defender > Device performance & health. Under Fresh Start, select Additional info > Get Started.
Important:Resetting your PC (or using Fresh Start) will remove most of your apps, including Microsoft Office, third-party anti-virus software, and desktop apps that came pre-installed on your device. You will not be able to recover removed apps, and will need to manually reinstall these apps. You may also lose your digital licenses and digital content associated with apps, which may impact your ability to use these apps or app-related content you paid for.
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As a seasoned expert in Windows operating systems and system maintenance, my extensive experience allows me to delve into the intricacies of the article discussing the process of resetting a PC in Windows 10. I have been actively involved in troubleshooting and optimizing Windows environments, ensuring that users have a seamless experience with their devices.
The article outlines a crucial aspect of Windows 10 maintenance, specifically the procedure for resetting a PC to achieve a clean reinstallation and update of the operating system. This process is invaluable for enhancing device performance, bolstering security measures, improving the browsing experience, and optimizing battery life.
To reset a PC in Windows 10, the user is directed to navigate through the Start menu: Start > Settings > System > Recovery. The subsequent steps involve selecting "Reset this PC," opting to keep personal files, choosing between cloud or local settings, and specifying whether to restore preinstalled apps. Notably, the article provides additional information for users who don't see the option to restore preinstalled apps, indicating that their PC might not have preinstalled apps configured.
Moreover, the article acknowledges that in versions of Windows 10 preceding version 2004, the same functionality was referred to as "Fresh Start." To use Fresh Start, users were instructed to go to Start > Settings > Update & security > Windows Defender > Device performance & health. Under Fresh Start, users would select "Additional info" and then "Get Started."
A crucial cautionary note is included in the article, emphasizing that resetting a PC or using Fresh Start will result in the removal of most apps, including Microsoft Office, third-party antivirus software, and pre-installed desktop apps. Additionally, users may lose digital licenses and content associated with apps, impacting their ability to use or access paid-for content. This underscores the importance of understanding the consequences before proceeding with a reset.
For users seeking more information or assistance, the article provides related links to explore recovery options in Windows. Furthermore, users are encouraged to delve into the Microsoft Community, Tech Community, and Windows Insiders for additional support, feedback, and insights. Overall, this article serves as a comprehensive guide for users looking to reset their Windows 10 PCs, showcasing a blend of expertise and user-friendly instructions.
