How to Factory Reset Windows 11

• Back up your important files before proceeding. A factory reset can permanently delete your personal data, apps, and settings. This process cannot be undone.
• Your device must be plugged into a power source — do not attempt a reset on battery power alone.
• Have your Windows 11 login credentials (Microsoft account or local account password) available.
• If keeping your files, back up any critical data to an external drive or cloud storage (e.g., OneDrive) first.
• A stable internet connection is recommended if you choose the Cloud download reinstall option.

• 🗑️ Option 1: Remove Everything (Full Wipe)
• 📁 Option 2: Keep My Files
• 🔧 Alternative: Repair Windows Without Resetting
• 🛠️ Common Issues & Fixes

Use this option to fully wipe the device and reinstall Windows 11 from scratch. Recommended when selling, donating, or decommissioning a computer, or when troubleshooting severe system issues.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings, or click the Start menu and select the gear icon.
2. In the left-hand menu, select System, then scroll down and click Recovery.
3. Under Recovery options, click Reset PC next to "Reset this PC."
4. When prompted, choose Remove everything. This will delete all personal files, apps, and settings.
5. On the next screen, select how you want to reinstall Windows:
   • Cloud download — Downloads a fresh copy of Windows 11 from Microsoft. Requires an active internet connection and uses approximately 4 GB of data.
   • Local reinstall — Reinstalls Windows using files already on your device. No internet connection required.
6. On the Additional settings screen, click Change settings to adjust the cleaning option:
   • Enable Remove files and clean the drive for a thorough, secure wipe — strongly recommended if selling or donating the device.
   • Leave this option off for a faster reset if you are keeping the device for personal use.
7. Review your settings on the confirmation screen, then click Next.
8. Click Reset to begin. Your computer will restart and the reset process will start.
9. Once complete, Windows 11 will load the initial setup screen. Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your device as new.

Use this option to remove installed applications and restore system settings while keeping your personal files (documents, photos, downloads, etc.). A good first step for resolving software issues without losing your data.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Select System from the left-hand menu, then click Recovery.
3. Under Recovery options, click Reset PC next to "Reset this PC."
4. When prompted, choose Keep my files. This will remove all installed third-party applications and revert system settings, but your personal files will remain.
5. Select your preferred reinstall method:
   • Cloud download — Fetches a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft's servers.
   • Local reinstall — Uses existing Windows installation files on the device.
6. Review the list of apps that will be removed on the confirmation screen. A copy of this list will be saved to your desktop after the reset for your reference.
7. Click Next, then click Reset to begin. The device will restart and complete the process automatically.
8. After the reset is complete, sign back into Windows and reinstall any applications you need.

If you want to repair Windows system files while keeping both your personal files and your installed applications, some versions of Windows 11 offer a repair option through Windows Update. This is less disruptive than a full reset.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System > Recovery.
3. Look for the option labeled Fix problems using Windows Update and click Reinstall now.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts. Windows will download and reinstall system files while keeping your apps and personal data intact.

If you experience any issues with your factory reset, our IT Help Desk is here to assist you.

• 📞 Phone: (918) 540-6099
• 📧 Email: neosuport@neo.edu
• 🚶 Walk-in: IT Department, Library Administration, 2nd Floor, Room 216
• 🕐 Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM