Want to perform a factory reset on Windows 11, but the PC won’t boot? You can still do it in simple steps. Here’s how.
When Windows 11 isn’t working as expected, and you are facing issues that can’t be fixed normally, the only option is to perform a full Windows 11 factory reset. Compared to a full reinstall, a factory reset is not only easy but also gives you the flexibility to keep your files or remove everything. Generally, you can use the Recovery options in the Windows 11 Settings to quickly reset your PC. However, what if your PC won’t boot? Is reinstalling the only way?
Thankfully, no. Even if your PC doesn’t boot, you can still perform a factory reset using Advanced Startup. It’s just that you need to know how to access the advanced startup screen when your PC doesn’t boot and how to do a factory reset using it. That is where this guide comes into play. It shows you how to perform a factory reset on Windows 11 when your PC doesn’t boot. Let’s get started.
Steps to Factory Reset Windows 11 When PC Won’t Boot
First, we need to open the Advanced Startup screen. Since you cannot boot your PC normally. Here’s how to access it. Try booting your PC 3 times, even if it fails to boot. On the 3rd or 4th boot attempt, Windows 11 will detect the boot failure and automatically take you to the Advanced Startup screen.
In the Advanced Startup screen, click the “Troubleshoot” option.
Then, click the “Reset this PC” option.
On this screen, you will see the following options. Click the one that best suits your use case or requirement.
- Keep my files: Reinstalls Windows 11 without deleting your personal files, apps, and settings.
- Remove everything: This option will delete all your personal files, apps, and settings. Consider this a fresh install option.
Depending on which option you selected in the previous step, you will see the following secondary options to choose what to remove. Select one to continue.
- Just remove my files: If you are resetting your PC to use it, select this option.
- Fully clean the drive: If you are planning to give away or sell the PC, select this option.
Now, Windows will ask how you want to reset the PC. i.e., should it use the local image or download a fresh image from the internet? If you have a good internet connection, I recommend selecting the “Cloud download” option. Otherwise, choose “Local reinstall” to continue.
Finally, click the “Reset” button. Now, sit back and wait for Windows 11 to factory reset itself. It will take around 20 to 30 minutes. Once done, you can log into your PC and use it normally. Of course, if you choose to remove everything, you might want to set up your user account or install your favorite apps first.
That is all. It is that simple to perform a factory reset on Windows 11 when the PC won’t boot. If you have any questions or need help, comment below. I’ll be happy to assist.
