A slow PC is a problem for everyone. A collection of junk, unwanted applications, or any other reason can slow down the PC. What do you need to do in such a scenario? Do you want a technician, or can some simple methods resolve them?

The answer is that your system has options to repair itself. Windows are evolving day by day. It’s trying to incorporate solutions for its users. System settings are advanced and self-sufficient in resolving basic errors. But is it safe to reset Windows 10 or reset Windows 11? Will you lose your files and data?

Well, Windows 10 and 11 have an inbuilt feature, “Reset this PC.” This option allows users to reinstall the operating system without losing the files. This method is the most trusted and straightforward one to reset Windows 10 or 11.

The crucial thing to remember: Select the “Keep my Files” option

This method is perfect when you carefully click on the “Keep my files” checkbox. It will

1. Save your files: This will include all videos, photos, documents, and other files present in your folder. It may also save files present on the root of your system drive, for example, drive C.
2. Remove installed Applications: Unfortunately, this process will remove the downloaded applications from your system. You need to reinstall them.
3. Reset System Settings: Any change you make to the system will revert to its default settings.
4. Potentially reinstall pre-installed apps: This function may reinstall those apps that were already present when you received the computer.

Now you know what the recovery option will do. It’s time to learn about the steps you’ll follow to reset your system. Some steps may vary for Windows 10 and 11 users.

How will you reset Windows 11 without losing files?

Users who work on Windows 11 will follow the steps below:

1. Click on the “Start” button and open “Settings.”
2. In the Settings window, click on the “System” present on the left sidebar.
3. Click on “Recovery.”
4. Under “Recovery options,” next to “Reset this PC,” click Reset PC.
5. After clicking on “Reset PC,” a blue screen will appear with some options. Choose “Keep My Files.”
6. Now you have to choose how to reinstall Windows:

• Cloud download: This option downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft’s servers. It requires an internet connection and generally provides a cleaner installation.
• Local reinstall: This option utilizes the Windows files already on your device. It’s faster but might not rectify all system corruption issues if the local files are damaged.

1. Read all the changes that will occur (which app the system will remove during the installation)
2. Click “Next/Reset” (depending on the prompt).
3. As you confirm, the system will start the process.

The system will restart multiple times during the process—don’t panic. It is the best way to reset your Windows 11 without losing your files.

Read Also: How to Fix Slow SSD on Windows 11/10

How will you reset Windows 10 without losing files?

Windows 10 users will follow a few steps different from Windows 11. The process is almost the same, but the “Settings” and the name of the function have changed. Follow the steps below:

1. Click on the “Start” button and go to “Settings.”
2. In the “Settings” window, you will see “Update and Security.”
3. In the left corner, you will see the “Recovery” option. Click on it.
4. You will see the “Reset this PC” option.
5. Click on “Get Started.”
6. Choose “Keep my files” to save your files from being lost.
7. Choose how to reinstall Windows:

• Cloud download: This option downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft’s servers. It requires an internet connection and generally provides a cleaner installation.
• Local reinstall: This option utilizes the Windows files already on your device. It’s faster but might not rectify all system corruption issues if the local files are damaged.

1. Read the instructions carefully to know how it works.
2. Click Next/Reset.
3. Confirm your choice and click on “Reset” to start the installation.

Again, your computer will restart multiple times. Allow the process to complete without interruption.

The above methods are lengthy and time-consuming ways to reset your Windows 10 or 11. There are alternative methods that may help you recover your system. Let us explore the troubleshooting function to reset your Windows.

Alternate methods to reset Windows 11 and reset Windows 10

This method is useful when you are not able to access “Settings” due to various reasons. You can use it to manage the damage or fix the errors.

Follow the steps below to troubleshoot the computer.

1. Turn on your PC. When you see the Windows logo, press the power button to force the shutdown of the system.
2. Repeat the process two more times.
3. On the third attempt, let the PC start normally. It should enter the Windows Recovery Environment.
4. Once in WinRE, select Troubleshoot.
5. Now, you will see the “Reset this PC” option. Click on it.
6. Select “Keep my files” to save your data.
7. Follow the instructions visible on the screen. You may be asked to log in using your ID and password.
8. Choose between “Cloud download” or “Local reinstall” and proceed with the reset.

By following these trusted methods and taking the recommended precautions, you can effectively reset your Windows 11 or 10 PC while preserving your files.

These methods help reset Windows 10 and Windows 11, but what will you do if Windows stops working? Is there any option left? Do you plan how you will reset Windows without losing any of the files or data? We have a solution: RestoreX360. Windows recovery software that will help you reset Windows 10 and Windows 11 in the easiest way possible.

Read Also: 5 Best PC Repair Software in 2025

What is RestoreX360?

RestoreX360 is a blessing for Windows users. It is software that manages to recover your system from severe damage. From viral attacks to Windows crashes, from file corruptions to online threats, it protects your system from every possible threat.

How does RestoreX360 reset Windows 10 and 11?

RestoreX360 works independently from Windows. It does not require Windows to operate, as it comes with its own mini operating system. It helps it work when Windows is corrupted.

Secondly, it stores the complete system data in the form of screenshots. It keeps all your data in its storage. It uses these snapshots to recover data later when the system is facing issues in operations or needs to be reset.

All you need to do is select the latest screenshot, and it will reverse the system condition, which will repair the errors and maintain the system performance.

This software helps reset Windows 10 and reset Windows 11. It takes a few seconds to reset Windows. Downloading this software will manage everything.

Things to remember:

There are methods available to reset Windows 10 or 11. But there are some key points every user should check regularly.

1. Always keep a backup of your data. Use an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox) to create a separate backup of your most important documents, photos, and other critical data. It will minimize damage during an unexpected issue.
2. When you reset the system to fix the problems, it removes installed apps. Note down the names to remember and install them later. Gather any product keys or installation media you might need.
3. During the process, make sure you have a stable power source.