ByResetting Windows 11 may be necessary at times, especially when the system becomes slow, there is a virus threat, or any other problem arises. However, it is important to know how to complete this process without losing your important data. In this article, we will give you a step-by-step guide so that you can reset your Windows 11 safely and effectively.
Benefits of resetting Windows 11
1. Improve system performance: Resetting makes Windows 11 as fast and smooth as before.
2. Protection from viruses and malware: This is an effective way to remove any malware or virus.
3. Resolve system errors: Resetting automatically resolves many types of software problems.
Necessary preparations before resetting
It is important to take some necessary steps before starting the reset process:
1. Take a data backup
Back up your important files and documents.
Use an external hard drive or cloud storage like Google Drive, or OneDrive.
2. Create a recovery drive
Creating a recovery drive can be useful to restore Windows if something goes wrong.
To create it:
Go to Control Panel > Create a recovery drive option.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Note installed programs and login details
Write down all important programs and their serial numbers or license information.
Keep the login details of your Microsoft account and other accounts safe.
Ways to reset Windows 11 without losing data
1. Use the Reset this PC option
This is the easiest and safest method available in Windows 11. Through this process, you can reset Windows while keeping your personal files safe.
Step-by-step guide:
1. Open Settings (press Windows + I).
2. Go to the System section and click on Recovery.
3. Under Reset this PC, click the Reset PC button.
4. On the Choose an Option screen, select the Keep My Files option.
5. On the next screen, select the Cloud download or Local reinstall option.
Cloud download: This will install fresh Windows from the Internet.
Local reinstall: This will use the Windows files already present in the system.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions and complete the process.
2. Use the Windows Recovery Environment
If your system is not booting normally, you can use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).
Step-by-step guide:
1. Restart the system and press F11 or Shift + F8 repeatedly during the boot process.
2. On the Choose an Option screen, select Troubleshoot.
3. Click on the Reset this PC option.
4. Select the Keep My Files option and proceed.
5. Wait for the reset process to complete.
3. Reset via Command Prompt
For technical users, using Command Prompt can be an alternative method.
Step-by-step guide:
1. Go to Advanced Startup Options (Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced Startup > Restart now).
2. Open Command Prompt.
3. Type the following command and press Enter:
“`
systemreset -cleanpc
“`
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and select the Keep my files option.
Things to keep in mind after the reset process
1. Reinstall all programs
After the reset process, the programs you used before will have to be reinstalled.
2. Update Windows
After resetting Windows, make sure you install all the latest updates:
Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates.
3. Install antivirus
Install a good antivirus to keep the system safe. You can use Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus.
Common problems and their solutions
1. The reset process failed
Make sure the battery is sufficiently charged. Restart the process.
2. Fear of data loss
Always start the process after taking a backup.
3. Essential programs are not running
Download the latest versions of the programs.
Conclusion
Resetting Windows 11 without losing data is a simple process, but it needs to be done carefully. We have discussed all the reset methods and necessary preparations in this article.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Will resetting Windows 11 delete all my data?
No, your data will be safe if you select the “Keep my files” option. However, installed programs and settings will be removed.
2. Will I have to reactivate Windows 11 after the reset?
No, usually no. Windows 11 will be activated automatically with your system’s digital license.
3. Will I need an internet connection during the reset process?
It depends on whether you select the “Cloud download” option or “Local reinstall”. Cloud download will require the internet, while local reinstall works offline.
4. How long does it take to reset Windows 11?
The reset process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour or more, depending on your device speed and the options selected.
5. Can I reset Windows 11 if my system won’t boot?
Yes, you can reset using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). To access it, go to Advanced Startup Options.
6. Will the data on all my drives be deleted after the reset?
No, if you select the “Keep my files” and “Only the drive where Windows is installed” options, the data on other drives will be safe.
7. What to do if the reset process fails?
Make sure the battery is fully charged.
Restart the process.
If the problem persists, use the recovery drive or Windows installation media.
8. Do I have to restore data from a backup after the reset?
The data is safe during the reset, but if you want to restore data from a backup, you can do it manually.
9. Do I have to install an antivirus after resetting Windows 11?
Yes, it is recommended. You can use Windows Defender or install a third-party antivirus.
10. Can I reset Windows 11 without an administrator password?
No, you will need the administrator password to start the reset process. If you have forgotten the password, recover it first.
