How To Factory Reset Windows 10 From Boot: A Step-by-Step Guide

Home » How-To

6 min. read

Published on November 10, 2025

Fix Windows errors with Fortect:
Fortect can repair common computer errors by scanning your entire system for damaged or missing OS files and replacing them with the original, working versions. Optimize your PC in 3 simple steps:

Download and Install Fortect on your PC
Use the PC Scan feature to look up any Windows issues (including drivers)
Right-click on Repair, and fix it within a few minutes.

Besides that, it helps you clean up junk files, fix stability problems, and get rid of annoying programs and malware traces.

Factory resetting your Windows 10 computer can feel like a drastic measure, but it’s often the most effective way to resolve persistent issues, remove stubborn malware, or simply start fresh. When Windows is running normally, the process is straightforward. However, what if you can’t even boot into Windows? Fortunately, Windows 10 offers a built-in recovery environment that allows you to perform a factory reset directly from the boot menu.

This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough on how to factory reset your Windows 10 computer from the boot menu. Whether you’re dealing with a system crash, a forgotten password, or just want to restore your PC to its original state, this method can help you regain control and get your computer running smoothly again.

How Do I Factory Reset Windows 10 From the Boot Menu?

Accessing the Windows Recovery Environment

If your computer is failing to boot normally, the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) should automatically appear after a few failed attempts. If it doesn’t, you can force it to appear.

Power off your computer completely. If it’s stuck on a screen, hold down the power button until it shuts down.
Power on your computer. As soon as you see the manufacturer’s logo, press and hold the power button again to force a shutdown.
Repeat step 2 one more time. On the third startup, Windows should automatically boot into the Recovery Environment.
Select “See advanced repair options” when the Recovery Environment appears.

Navigating the Recovery Environment

Once you’re in the Recovery Environment, you’ll need to navigate to the troubleshooting options.

Click “Troubleshoot.” This will take you to a menu with options for resetting your PC, using system restore, and more.
Click “Reset this PC.” This is the option that will perform the factory reset.

Choosing Your Reset Options

Now you’ll be presented with two options: “Keep my files” and “Remove everything.”

Select “Remove everything.” This is the option that performs a full factory reset, wiping all your personal files, apps, and settings. Important: Make sure you have backed up any important data before proceeding, as this process is irreversible.
Choose your installation method. You’ll be asked how you want to reinstall Windows. You’ll likely see two options:

Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft’s servers. This requires an internet connection.
Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows using the recovery image stored on your computer. This is faster but may not be as effective if the original image is corrupted. Choose the option you prefer.

Choose to clean the drive. You’ll be given additional options, such as whether to clean the drive thoroughly.

Just remove my files: This is faster but less secure, as data can potentially be recovered.
Remove files and clean the drive: This takes longer but is more secure, as it overwrites the data on the drive. Choose the option that best suits your needs.

Click “Reset.” A warning message will appear, reminding you that all your personal files and apps will be removed. Confirm that you want to proceed by clicking “Reset.”

Completing the Reset

The reset process will now begin. Your computer will restart several times, and you’ll see progress indicators on the screen. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the speed of your computer and the options you selected. Once the reset is complete, your computer will boot into the Windows setup screen, as if it were a brand new PC.

Tips for a Smooth Factory Reset

Back Up Your Data: Before you start, back up all your important files to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another safe location. A factory reset wipes everything!
Ensure Power Supply: Make sure your laptop is plugged in or your desktop has a stable power supply to avoid interruptions during the reset process. An unexpected power outage could cause serious problems.
Be Patient: The reset process can take a while, so don’t interrupt it. Let it run its course, even if it seems like it’s stuck.
Check for Driver Updates: After the reset, update your drivers to ensure optimal performance. You can do this through Windows Update or by downloading the latest drivers from your manufacturer’s website.

Comparing Reset Options

Here’s a quick comparison of the two main reset options:

Feature	Keep My Files	Remove Everything
Data Retention	Keeps personal files, but removes apps and settings.	Removes all personal files, apps, and settings.
Use Case	Suitable for fixing minor issues without losing your data.	Best for resolving major problems, removing malware, or preparing to sell/donate your PC.
Cleanliness	Less thorough; may leave behind residual data from apps.	More thorough; provides options for cleaning the drive to prevent data recovery.
Time Required	Faster than “Remove Everything.”	Slower than “Keep My Files,” especially with drive cleaning options.
Security	Less secure, as removed apps may leave behind traces of data.	More secure, especially when combined with the “Remove files and clean the drive” option.

Regaining Control of Your Windows 10

Factory resetting Windows 10 from the boot menu is a powerful way to resolve stubborn issues and restore your computer to its original state. By following these steps, you can regain control of your system and get back to using your PC without the frustration of persistent problems.

FAQ

What happens if I interrupt the factory reset process?

Interrupting the reset process can lead to serious problems, including data loss or an unbootable system. It’s crucial to let the process complete without interruption.

How long does a factory reset take?

The duration can vary widely, from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your computer’s speed and the options you choose (e.g., cleaning the drive).

Will a factory reset remove viruses?

Yes, a factory reset will remove viruses and malware from your system, as it wipes the entire drive and reinstalls Windows.

Do I need my Windows product key to perform a factory reset?

No, you don’t need your product key. Windows 10 is digitally activated and will automatically reactivate after the reset.

Can I undo a factory reset?

No, a factory reset is irreversible. Once the process is complete, all your data is gone. That’s why it’s so important to back up your files beforehand.