If you’re looking to give Windows 11 a rinse without losing all your personal stuff and apps, there’s a built-in trick called “Reset this PC” that does the job pretty well most of the time. The idea is to give your PC a bit of a freshen-up, fix bugs or weird glitches, without deleting your downloads and docs. It’s a bit quirky, but it usually works—just make sure to back up your important bits, just in case.
How to Reset Windows 11 Without Losing Files and Apps
This guide is all about fixing issues or tidying up your machine without wiping everything. Handy if Windows is running slow or off its head with errors. Basically, it restores your system files to a clean state but keeps your personal stuff safe. Here’s what works and what to watch out for.
Step 1: Open Settings
First, click the Start menu and head to Settings. Or just press Windows key + I — quicker that way. The Settings app is your portal for all things Windows. If you’ve poked around in there before, you’ll find a section called “Recovery” hiding somewhere inside.
Heads up: on some setups, this process can be a bit finicky—it might not show all the options straight away. Usually, a quick reboot or a Windows update sorting it out, so no worries if it’s playing up first go.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
Inside Settings, find and click Update & Security. That’s where Windows keeps an eye on updates, troubleshooting, and recovery options. Sometimes it’s buried a bit if your system’s been customised, so just look around.
Step 3: Click on Recovery
Now, hit Recovery. This is basically Windows’ ‘fix-it’ menu. If your PC’s acting up, this is where you wanna head.
Step 4: Start Resetting with Get Started
Under Reset this PC, click Get Started. This kicks off the reset wizard. You’ll see options on some machines asking if you want to “Keep my files” or “Remove everything.” Go with Keep my files. If you pick the other, it’s a full wipe, and that’s a whole different ballgame.
Pro tip: sometimes Windows doesn’t show the options properly straight away, especially if it’s acting a bit strange. If you hit a snag, reboot the PC and give it another go. Weird, but it’s helped before.
Step 5: Confirm and Keep Your Files
When asked, confirm that you want to Keep my files. Windows will warn you that some apps and settings might still change or get removed, but your docs and downloads should stay intact. It’ll then get to work—depends on your hardware, it might take a while. If it stalls, check your disk space or run a system file check later with sfc /scannow in Command Prompt.
Once it’s done, Windows will restart and finish the reset. It’s designed to give your system files a refresh while keeping your personal stuff safe. Some apps might need reinstalling or reconfiguring afterward, so don’t be surprised if things seem a bit wonky for a bit.
Tips for Resetting Windows 11 Without Wiping Your Files and Apps
- Always back up your important files before messing about with resets. Better safe than sorry, especially if things go sideways.
- Keep your PC plugged in during the process—power cuts during resets are a headache. Windows really doesn’t like losing power mid-way.
- Once done, check for updates manually—Settings → Windows Update. Sometimes resets can skip or remove patches that are still needed.
- Jot down or remember your key apps, especially non-Microsoft Store ones. If they’re missing after, just reinstall them.
- If your system’s still being weird after the reset, try running
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthin PowerShell to fix any component issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reset Windows 11 without losing any data?
Most of the time, yes—select the “Keep my files” option during the reset. But heads up, some apps or settings might still get affected or reset to default. Always back up just in case, especially if you’ve got sensitive stuff or important programs.
Will I lose my installed apps after resetting?
Built-in Windows apps and those you installed from the Microsoft Store usually stick around, but any third-party apps or software installed outside the Store might need a reinstall after the reset. So, note down your main apps beforehand.
How long does the reset take?
Usually around 20 to 60 minutes, depending on your hardware and how much data you’ve got. Older or slower PCs might take a bit longer—just hang in there.
Do I need the internet to reset my PC?
You don’t need internet just to do the reset, but Windows might want to grab updates or re-activate afterward. So, it’s a good idea to have it online once the reset’s finished.
Is resetting my PC the best fix for system issues?
It’s a solid way to fix crashes, slowdowns, or corrupted files, but if problems stick around after resetting, try other options first—like System Restore or fixing system files. Sometimes a deeper dive is needed before wiping the slate clean.
Summary
- Open Settings and head to Update & Security.
- Click on Recovery.
- Hit Get Started under Reset this PC.
- Select Keep my files.
- Follow the prompts and wait for the magic to happen.
Hopefully, this saves someone a fair bit of hassle. Just back up your data, stay chill, and don’t panic if things look a bit weird afterward—most issues are fixable. All the best!