If your Windows computer is no longer stable or you just want to clean up thoroughly without performing a complete reinstallation, you can reset the system. There are two variants here
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Reset Windows 10 and 11 via the command line
© Microsoft
In one, your personal files are retained and Windows only removes the programs and all individual settings that are not included in the scope of delivery. In Windows 10 versions prior to 2004, this procedure was referred to as “clean start” and was available in the settings via “Update and Security -› Windows Defender – ›Device performance and integrity -› Clean start – ›Additional information -› Let’s go ” accessible. However, since version 2004 the command has disappeared from the graphical user interface.
In the second variant, you completely reset Windows 10 to the factory settings. In addition to the programs and settings you have set up, you will also delete your personal documents. The corresponding command can be found in the “Settings” under “Update and Security -› Recovery – ›Reset this PC” as the “Let’s go” button. In Windows 11, Microsoft moved the “Restore” function in the Settings app to the “System” section. Otherwise nothing changes in the current operating system.
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The system provides two options for resetting Windows PCs with version 10 and 11 to the factory settings.
Both variants are also available via command line commands. To do this, type cmd into the search field on the taskbar and open the command prompt with one click. Next, enter the command systemreset.exe there and confirm with the Enter key. A window then appears on the desktop offering you the two variants mentioned to choose from: both under Windows 10 and under Windows 11. For older Windows systems prior to version 2004, please use the command systemreset.exe -cleanpc instead to popping the window for a clean start.
Tip: Command line: The best commands for Windows 10 & 11
