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How to Reset Windows 10 and Keep Your Files Intact

2024/12/10
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • You can keep personal files while resetting Windows 10.
  • Settings and applications will be removed during the reset.
  • Choose between cloud download or local reinstall for the reset.

Mastering the Windows 10 Reset: A Guide to Safeguarding Your Files

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to reset Windows 10 while keeping your files intact, enhancing system performance while mitigating common issues experienced by users.

How to Reset Windows 10 While Keeping Your Files

When your Windows 10 device is plagued by sluggishness or software glitches, a reset can rejuvenate your system without discarding your cherished files. This guide will equip you with step-by-step instructions to utilize Windows 10’s “ Reset this PC ” feature, allowing you to tackle performance issues by either downloading a new copy of Windows or using a local image.

Step 1: Reset Windows 10 while retaining files (cloud download)

Follow these steps to reset your Windows 10 system using the cloud download method:

  1. Open Settings on your device.
  2. Select Update & Security.
  3. Choose Recovery.
  4. Click the Get started button in the “Reset this PC” section.
  5. Choose the “Keep my files” option to ensure your documents remain safe.
  6. Select the “Cloud download” option to procure the latest version of Windows 10 from Microsoft.
  7. Click on Next to proceed.
  8. Press the Reset button to initiate the process.

Upon completion, Windows 10 will be downloaded onto your system, and this process may take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your internet speed and device performance.

Step 2: Reset Windows 10 while retaining files (local reinstall)

Use the following steps to reset using the local reinstall method:

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Select Update & Security.
  3. Navigate to Recovery.
  4. Tap the Get started button in the “Reset this PC” section.
  5. Opt for the “Keep my files” selection.
  6. Choose the “Local reinstall” option to reset using your current local backup.
  7. Click Next.
  8. Hit Reset to begin the process.

Your system will utilize the locally stored image to perform the reset, which typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on your specific setup.

Step 3: Reset Windows 10 while retaining files via WinRE

To reset via the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), follow these directions:

  1. Start your device.
  2. After the initial startup, press the Power button to force shutdown.
  3. Repeat this process twice; upon the third boot, your device should enter WinRE.
  4. Click on Advanced options.
  5. Select Troubleshoot.
  6. Choose “Reset this PC”.
  7. Opt for “Keep my files” to maintain your personal data.
  8. Choose either “Cloud download” or “Local reinstall”.
  9. Press Reset to confirm.

This method will initiate a reset using either a cloud version or the local restore image. Expect the operation to complete within 20 minutes.

Additional Tips

  • Always back up essential files before starting a reset to prevent potential data loss.
  • Be prepared to reinstall applications and reconfigure your system settings post-reset.
  • If the reset process fails, consider a clean installation of Windows 10.

Summary

Resetting Windows 10 while ensuring your files remain intact is a straightforward process that revitalizes your computer performance. Whether you choose cloud download, local reinstall, or the Windows Recovery Environment, you can restore your system without losing your important data.

Conclusion

By strategically resetting your Windows 10 device, you can tackle performance hiccups without sacrificing your personal files. Implement these steps at your convenience, and enjoy a refreshed system that runs smoother and more efficiently.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What files are preserved with this option?

The “Keep my files” option retains all files within your profile folders, including Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Pictures, Videos, and Music. However, it’s advisable to back up your data to prevent loss during installation.

Will my applications and settings be removed?

Yes, this process will uninstall your applications and reset settings, as it aims to eliminate issues stemming from misconfigurations or problematic software.

What should you do if “Reset this PC” fails to work?

If the “Reset this PC” feature is malfunctioning, you may need to troubleshoot the error, or if your device remains problematic, consider performing a clean installation of Windows 10.

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