Resetting Windows 10 can help fix issues, boost performance, or prepare your PC for a new owner without losing your important files. This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of resetting your Windows 10 system while keeping your files safe. If you’re looking for a clean start without losing your data, follow along.
Key Takeaways
- You can reset Windows 10 without losing your important files by choosing the right option.
- Two main reset options: Keep your files or remove everything for a fresh installation.
- Choose between local reinstall or cloud download depending on your needs.
How to Reset Windows 10 Without Losing Data
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Start by heading to your Start menu and clicking on Settings. This will open the control panel where you can access various system settings.
Step 2: Go to Update & Security
Once you’re in the Settings window, click on Update & Security. This section contains important options related to updates, backup, and recovery.
Step 3: Find the Recovery Tab
On the left side of the screen, you’ll see several options. Click on the Recovery tab. This is where you can find the tools to reset your PC, among other recovery options.
Step 4: Choose to Reset This PC
Under the Reset this PC section, click on Get Started. This will bring up two main options for resetting your system:
- Keep My Files: This option will remove apps and settings, but your personal files (like documents, pictures, music, and videos) will be kept.
- Remove Everything: This option will completely wipe your system, removing all files, apps, and settings, giving you a clean version of Windows.
For this tutorial, we’ll choose Keep My Files to retain important data while resetting everything else.
Step 5: Choose Reinstallation Method
After selecting Keep My Files, you’ll be prompted to choose between two options for reinstalling Windows:
- Cloud Download: This will download and install the latest version of Windows 10. Keep in mind that this option requires at least 4GB of data.
- Local Reinstall: This will reinstall the copy of Windows currently on your device. If your current version is outdated, this is the version that will be reinstalled.
For this guide, we’ll choose Local Reinstall to save time and data.
Step 6: Review Additional Settings
Next, you’ll see a screen with additional settings, showing you what will happen during the reset. These include keeping your files, removing apps and settings, and reinstalling Windows from the selected source. If everything looks good, click on Next to proceed.
Step 7: Final Review and Reset
Before starting the reset process, you’ll get a recap of everything that’s about to happen. You can also view a list of apps that will be removed during the reset to make sure you’re prepared. Once you’re ready, click on Reset to begin the process.
Note: In this tutorial, we’ll stop here, but if you proceed, the reset process will start, and your computer will be reset with your personal files kept intact.
Alternative Method: Reset from Advanced Startup
There’s also an alternative way to reset Windows 10, and that’s through Advanced Startup. Here’s how:
- Open the Start Menu: Click on the Power button.
- Hold Shift and Restart: Hold down the Left Shift key on your keyboard while clicking on Restart. This will take you to the Advanced Startup menu.
From here, you’ll see options like Troubleshoot and Reset This PC. The process is similar to the method outlined earlier. Just follow the prompts, select Keep My Files, and proceed with the reset.
Step 8: Choose Account and Reset
After selecting Reset This PC, choose the account you want to reset. If you have a password, enter it, or leave it blank if you don’t. You’ll then have the option to choose between a cloud download or local reinstall again. Choose your preferred option and proceed.
Finally, you’ll see a recap screen similar to the first method. When you’re ready, click on Reset to start the process.
Conclusion
Resetting Windows 10 without losing your data is a helpful solution if your PC is running into issues or you want a fresh start. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can safely reset your system while keeping your important files intact.
FAQs
1. Will resetting my PC delete my files?
If you choose the Keep My Files option, your personal files like documents, pictures, and music will remain intact. However, apps and settings will be removed.
2. Should I choose cloud download or local reinstall?
Cloud download installs the latest version of Windows, while local reinstall uses your current version. If you’re looking for the latest updates and have a stable internet connection, cloud download is a good option. Otherwise, local reinstall is faster and doesn’t require internet.
3. How long does the reset process take?
The reset process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on your system’s speed and the method you choose (cloud vs. local).
4. Can I reset my PC without losing apps?
No, resetting Windows will remove installed apps. You’ll need to reinstall them afterward.
5. What if my reset fails?
If the reset process fails, try using the alternative method through Advanced Startup, or consider contacting Microsoft support for further assistance.
