Resetting Windows 10 is a powerful way to fix persistent software glitches, but the process often fails due to corrupted system files or interrupted updates. This guide details how to prepare your data, execute the reset via Settings or Recovery Mode, and resolve common error codes that prevent the operating system from reinstalling correctly.
Preparing for a Safe Reset
Before initiating any reset procedure, it is critical to secure your personal data. The "Remove everything" option will permanently delete all user accounts, files, and applications, while "Keep my files" only removes apps and settings, preserving documents. To ensure a smooth transition, back up important documents, photos, and browser bookmarks to an external drive or cloud storage service. Additionally, note down license keys for paid software, as these may need manual reactivation after the fresh installation.
It is also advisable to disconnect peripheral devices such as USB drives, printers, and external hard drives. These devices can sometimes interfere with the reset process or cause the system to hang during the file copying phase. Ensure your laptop is plugged into a power source to prevent battery depletion during the lengthy operation. If you have previously enabled BitLocker encryption, locate your recovery key before proceeding, as losing access to this key can result in permanent data loss.
Navigating the Reset Options
Accessing the reset feature is straightforward through the modern interface. Navigate to
Settings, select
Update & Security, and click on
Recovery. Under the "Reset this PC" section, choose
Get Started. You will then be presented with two distinct choices: "Keep my files" or "Remove everything." Selecting the former allows you to retain personal data while removing installed programs, which is ideal for resolving application conflicts without starting from scratch.
The second option, "Remove everything," performs a more thorough clean install. This choice is recommended if you plan to sell the device or if you suspect deep-seated malware that might persist in user folders. When choosing "Remove everything," you may be asked whether to simply remove your files or fully clean the drive. The latter option takes significantly longer but makes data recovery much more difficult, providing better security for sensitive information.
For users who cannot boot into Windows normally, accessing the reset menu through the advanced startup environment is necessary. Hold the
Shift key while clicking
Restart from the Start Menu power options. Alternatively, interrupt the boot process three times by forcing shutdowns during the Windows logo appearance. This triggers the Automatic Repair screen, allowing you to navigate to
Advanced options >
Troubleshoot >
Reset this PC.
Troubleshooting Common Reset Errors
One of the most frequent hurdles users encounter is the "Something didn't work" error message. This usually indicates that critical system files are corrupted beyond automatic repair. In such cases, attempting to fix Windows Update components first can help. A stuck update can block the reset process because the system relies on update services to download the necessary recovery image. For detailed steps on resolving update blocks, refer to our guide on
Windows Update Stuck at 73% - How to Fix it.
Another common issue involves insufficient disk space. The reset process requires free space to copy new system files and unpack compressed archives. If your drive is nearly full, the operation will fail immediately. Use the Storage Sense feature in Settings to clear temporary files, old downloads, and recycle bin contents. Aim for at least 10-15 GB of free space to ensure the process completes without interruption.
If the reset hangs at a specific percentage, such as 98%, it often points to a conflict with third-party drivers or hardware. Disconnect all non-essential peripherals and try again. If the problem persists, consider using the Command Prompt method to rebuild the component store. Open Command Prompt as administrator and run
sfc /scannow followed by
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. These commands repair system images and can resolve underlying corruption that prevents a successful reset.
In scenarios where the standard reset options are completely inaccessible or return fatal errors, the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) may be damaged. Users frequently report being unable to reinstall or reset their PC when WinRE itself is broken. Before attempting complex command-line fixes, check if your recovery partition is intact. For specialized troubleshooting when the recovery mode fails to launch, consult our article on
Stuck on Windows Recovery Mode? Unable to Reinstall or Reset PC?.
Post-Reset Configuration and Drivers
After the reset completes and Windows restarts, you will go through the Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE). Connect to the internet early in this process, as Windows Update will automatically detect and install most generic drivers for your hardware. However, specific manufacturers' software, such as graphics card drivers or printer utilities, may not be included in the base Windows image.
Visit the manufacturer’s website to download the latest chipset, audio, and network drivers. This step ensures optimal performance and stability. If you experience issues with shared resources after the reset, such as missing network printers, review our tips on
Troubleshooting: Only Seeing One of Two Shared Printers on Windows 10 to restore connectivity quickly. Finally, restore your backed-up files and reinstall your essential applications. Monitor system performance for a few days to ensure the reset has resolved the initial issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Windows 10 reset take?
A standard reset typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on your hardware speed and the amount of data being processed. Choosing the "Clean the drive" option can extend this time significantly, potentially taking several hours to complete a secure wipe.
Can I undo a Windows 10 reset?
No, a reset is irreversible once completed. While Windows keeps some previous system files for a short period to allow rollback, personal files deleted during the process cannot be recovered through built-in tools. Always verify your backups exist before confirming the reset action.
Why does my reset fail with error code 0x80070005?
This access denied error usually occurs due to permission issues or antivirus interference. Temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software and ensuring you are logged in as an administrator can resolve this. Running the system file checker command may also fix permission-related corruption.
Will resetting my PC fix a virus infection?
Yes, a "Remove everything" reset is one of the most effective ways to eliminate persistent malware. It wipes the drive clean, removing infected system files and user data alike. However, always scan your backup files for viruses before restoring them to the fresh installation.
What should I do if the reset gets stuck at 98%?
Do not force shutdown the computer, as this can corrupt the operating system further. Allow it to sit for several hours, as it may be verifying files. If it remains stuck indefinitely, boot into Safe Mode and attempt to uninstall recent driver updates or use the Command Prompt to repair the boot sector.