Reset this PC and Fresh Start are Windows recovery features used to reinstall Windows and fix serious system issues while offering options to keep or remove user data.
Reset this PC reinstalls Windows using local or cloud files and provides control over personal data retention.
Steps & Overview:
- Open Settings → System → Recovery.
- Click Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
- Select Cloud download or Local reinstall.
- Review apps to be removed and confirm the reset.
- Windows reinstalls and restarts automatically.
Use Cases:
- Fix severe system corruption or performance issues.
- Prepare a PC for reuse or transfer.
- Remove persistent malware or misconfiguration.
Fresh Start reinstalls a clean copy of Windows while keeping personal files and removing most preinstalled or third-party applications.
Steps & Overview:
- Open Windows Security.
- Go to Device performance & health.
- Select Fresh start and click Get started.
- Review removed apps and confirm.
- Windows reinstalls a clean version of Windows.
- Reinstall required applications and updates.
Use Cases:
- Remove manufacturer bloatware.
- Improve system performance and stability.
- Resolve issues caused by unwanted or outdated software.
Using Reset this PC or Fresh Start restores Windows to a stable state, improves performance, and resolves deep system issues with minimal manual troubleshooting.