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Reset Windows 11 and Keep Your Files

If Windows 11 is crashing, full of errors or just won't behave, you can reinstall it while keeping your personal files. Here's how to choose the right option and get ready before you start.

Before you start

  • Back up your files Even with Keep my files, have a copy of anything important. See Back Up Your Files with File History.
  • Know your password You'll need your Microsoft account or Windows password to sign in afterwards.
  • Find your BitLocker key You may be asked for it. See Find Your BitLocker Recovery Key.
  • Plug in the charger A reset can take an hour or more.

Try a repair install first

Open Settings > System > Recovery and click Reinstall now next to Fix problems using Windows Update. This downloads and reinstalls Windows while keeping your files, apps and settings, so try it before a full reset.

Reset this PC

Open Settings > System > Recovery and click Reset PC. You'll be asked two questions:

  • Keep my files Reinstalls Windows and keeps your documents, photos and other personal files. Apps and settings are removed.
  • Remove everything Erases the drive completely. Use this when giving away or selling the computer.
  • Cloud download Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft. Usually the most reliable choice, but it needs a good internet connection.
  • Local reinstall Rebuilds Windows from the files already on the computer. Quicker, but it won't help if those files are damaged.

Your programs will need reinstalling. Keep my files removes apps such as Microsoft Office and your accounting software. Windows saves a list of removed apps on your desktop, but make sure you have installers and licence keys first.

If Windows won't start

You can reach the same reset options from the recovery screen:

  • From the sign-in screen Hold Shift while you click Power > Restart.
  • If it won't start at all Windows opens the recovery screen automatically after failing to start a few times.

Then choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. If you'd rather not risk your files, call us first and we can copy them off before anything is reinstalled. More on data recovery.