Reset This PC Not Working? Fixes That Actually Work

If Reset This PC fails, freezes, or restarts without resetting, the problem is usually a corrupted system file, a missing recovery environment, or a stalled Windows Update component. You can fix most cases by running the built-in troubleshooters, using DISM and SFC, or resetting from the Windows Recovery Environment. Below are the exact steps to try, in order, plus what to do when none of them work.

Why Reset This PC Fails

Windows Reset relies on a hidden recovery image and a set of system files that must be intact. When any of these are missing or damaged, the reset process can fail. Common causes include:

• Corrupted system files – essential Windows components are damaged, so the reset tool cannot proceed.
• Missing or broken recovery partition – the reset function needs this partition to restore the original image.
• Third-party antivirus interference – security software can block the reset process.
• Pending Windows Updates – an incomplete update can lock the reset tool.
• Storage errors – bad sectors or file system corruption prevent the reset from writing data.

Knowing the cause helps you choose the right fix. Start with the simplest solutions and move to more advanced ones only if needed.

First: Run the Built-In Troubleshooters

Windows includes two troubleshooters that can automatically repair common reset problems. They are safe and take only a few minutes.

1. Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
2. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter – it fixes issues that can block reset.
3. Run the System Maintenance troubleshooter – it cleans up leftover files and repairs shortcuts.

After each troubleshooter, try Reset This PC again. If it still fails, move to the next step.

Repair System Files with DISM and SFC

Corrupted system files are the most common reason Reset fails. The Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) and System File Checker (SFC) can repair them.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for “cmd”, right-click, choose “Run as administrator”).
2. Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. This repairs the Windows image. It may take 10–20 minutes.
3. After DISM finishes, run sfc /scannow. This checks and repairs system files. It can take 15–30 minutes.
4. Restart your PC and try Reset again.

If DISM reports an error, you may need to run it with a Windows installation media. See the “Use Installation Media” section below.

Reset from Windows Recovery Environment

If you cannot boot into Windows normally, or if the reset fails from Settings, use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

1. Restart your PC and press the F11 key repeatedly (or the key your manufacturer specifies) to enter WinRE.
2. Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
3. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything.
4. Follow the prompts. If you choose “Remove everything”, you may also see an option to Change drives – select only the drive where Windows is installed.

If WinRE does not load, you may need to create a recovery drive or use installation media (next section).

Use Windows Installation Media

When the recovery environment is missing or damaged, you can reset using a bootable USB or DVD with the Windows installer.

1. On another computer, download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official website.
2. Create a bootable USB drive (at least 8 GB) or burn an ISO to a DVD.
3. Boot your PC from the media (change boot order in BIOS/UEFI if needed).
4. On the first screen, click Next, then select Repair your computer at the bottom left.
5. Choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.

This method uses the media’s recovery files, bypassing the broken recovery partition. It works even if your system files are severely damaged.

If Reset Still Fails: Advanced Options

If none of the above work, you have two remaining options:

• System Restore – if you have a restore point from before the problem, you can revert your system to that state. Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore. This does not affect your personal files.
• Clean install – this is the most thorough fix. Boot from installation media, choose Install now, and when asked for the installation type, select Custom: Install Windows only. This erases everything on the drive, so back up your files first.

Before a clean install, try one more thing: disable third-party antivirus temporarily. Some security suites block reset operations. If that works, consider switching to a different antivirus or re-enabling it after reset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting my PC remove my personal files?

If you choose “Keep my files”, your personal documents, photos, and apps (except those that came with Windows) are preserved. If you choose “Remove everything”, all files are deleted. Always back up important data before resetting, regardless of the option.

How long does Reset This PC take?

Typically 30–60 minutes, but it can take longer on older hardware or if you choose “Remove everything” with drive cleaning. If it seems stuck for over an hour, it may have failed – check the troubleshooting steps above.

Can I reset my PC if I forgot my administrator password?

No, you need administrator privileges to initiate a reset from within Windows. However, you can use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) or installation media to reset without logging in, as long as you can access those environments.

What is the difference between Reset and System Restore?

Reset reinstalls Windows and removes all apps and settings (unless you keep files). System Restore reverts system files and settings to an earlier point, but does not affect your personal files or installed apps. Reset is more thorough for fixing deep system issues.

Will resetting remove viruses?

Yes, a reset that removes everything will delete most malware because it replaces the entire Windows installation. However, some sophisticated malware can hide in the firmware or recovery partition. If you suspect that, use a clean install from media and consider updating your BIOS/UEFI.

Why does my PC restart during reset and then boot normally?

This often means the reset failed early due to a corrupted system file or a missing recovery component. Try the DISM and SFC repairs first, then reset again. If it persists, use the installation media method.

Related

• Offline Network Testing in Cypress: Step-by-Step Guide
• Plex Server on macOS: Setup Guide
• WD vs Crucial SSD: Real Differences