How to Factory Reset a Windows Computer or Use System Restore

If your Windows PC is acting up — crashing, freezing, or running unbearably slow — a reset or system restore might be what it needs. Here’s how to safely reset your computer to factory settings or use System Restore to roll back to a previous state.

Option 1: Factory Reset Your Windows PC

Factory reset brings your computer back to its original state, wiping out all your files, apps, and settings. It’s ideal when:

• You’re giving away or selling your PC
• You’ve tried everything else, and problems persist
• Malware has taken over

How to Factory Reset (Windows 10 & 11):

1. Open Settings
   Press Windows + I, then go to System > Recovery.
2. Click “Reset this PC”
   Under Recovery options, choose Reset PC.
3. Choose an Option
   • Keep my files – Resets Windows but saves your personal files.
   • Remove everything – Full factory reset. Erases everything.
4. Choose Local or Cloud
   • Local reinstall – Reinstalls Windows from your device.
   • Cloud download – Downloads a fresh copy of Windows (uses about 4GB of data).
5. Confirm and Reset
   Follow the on-screen instructions. Your PC may restart several times.

Option 2: Use System Restore

System Restore takes your computer back to a previous point in time without deleting your files. It’s useful for:

• Fixing problems after a bad driver or update
• Undoing system changes
• Resolving unexpected crashes

How to Use System Restore:

1. Search for “Create a restore point”
   In the Windows search bar, type “Restore” and click Create a restore point.
2. Click “System Restore” in the dialog box
   Under the System Protection tab.
3. Choose a Restore Point
   Select a date before the problems started. Click Next, then Finish.
4. Let Windows Do Its Thing
   Your computer will reboot and restore the system. This doesn’t affect personal files but will uninstall apps and updates installed after that restore point.

Which Should You Use?

• System Restore is your first move if your PC was recently fine and you want a quick fix without losing data.
• Factory Reset is better if your problems are deeper, long-term, or you’re preparing to hand off the computer.

Final Tip: Back Up First

Whether you’re restoring or resetting, back up your files first — just in case. Use an external drive, OneDrive, or another cloud service.

Need help walking through a reset or restore step-by-step? Drop your questions in the comments, and I’ll guide you through.