How to reset Windows 11 without losing your files: Complete and updated guide

¿How to reset Windows 11 without losing your files? If you've made it this far, you're probably wondering how to reset your Windows 11 PC without losing your personal files. Don't worry, you've come to the right place: in this article, I'll explain everything you need to know to restore your computer to a cleaner, more functional state without losing your data.

Resetting Windows 11 may seem like a complicated task, but it's actually a process that anyone can tackle if they follow the proper steps and take the necessary precautions. Here I'll explain in detail all the options, warnings, differences, and little secrets to completing the reset safely and successfully.

Why reset Windows 11?

Over time, any computer accumulates unnecessary programs, changed settings, and residual files. This can cause slowness, freezes, or annoying errors that affect daily use. Resetting Windows 11 is one of the fastest ways to fix performance issues, thoroughly clean up your system, or prepare your computer for a new lifecycle.

The reset procedure removes applications and settings, returning the PC to a near-factory state, But it allows you to keep your personal files (documents, images, videos, etc.) in the same location if you wish. This is especially useful if you're going to continue using the computer yourself but want to start from scratch with the system.

What are the options when resetting Windows 11?

When you start the reset process in Windows 11, the system offers you several alternatives, each tailored to different needs:

• Mantener mis archivos: Reinstalls Windows by removing apps and settings, but preserving your personal files in your user folders. Ideal for those who want to troubleshoot errors or clean up their system without losing data.
• Quitar todo: remove apps, settings and all personal filesIt's the best choice for cleaning your equipment before selling it, giving it away, or starting from scratch.
• Descarga en la nube: Windows downloads the most current version of its operating system to perform a clean reinstall. This is recommended if you suspect local system files are corrupted or want to ensure you have the latest version.
• Reinstalación local: The copy of Windows saved on your hard drive is used. It's usually faster, but if you have a very old installation, it may not have the latest updates.

The choice between these options depends on your particular situation. For example, if you simply want to clean your PC of programs and problems, choose "Keep my files." If you're getting rid of the computer or need a complete cleanup, select "Remove everything."

Preparations before resetting Windows 11

Before you touch anything, the most important thing is to take precautions to avoid losing any necessary data or settings. While keeping personal files usually works well, it never hurts to make a completely separate backup.

Here are some tips before you reset:

• Back up your important files. You can use an external drive, a cloud service (OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.), or a dedicated tool like EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.
• Write down or save your passwords, licenses, or application login details. After the reset, you'll need to reinstall them, and you may lose saved settings. Be especially careful with office, editing, design, gaming, and other important utility programs.
• Also save application-specific files. For example, custom Word templates, Photoshop brushes, game settings, etc. Many programs save this data in folders other than Documents.
• Make sure you have enough disk space. If Windows detects that there isn't enough space to complete the process, it will notify you. You can free up space manually before starting or connect an external drive.

Step-by-step guide: How to reset Windows 11 without losing your files

The official process is simple, but you should follow the steps carefully to avoid surprises. Here is the detailed guide:

1. Abre la Configuración de Windows 11: Click on the button Start y selecciona el icono de Configuration (You can also search for it by pressing the Windows key and typing “settings”).
2. Go to the System section: In the left-hand menu, select System (should appear by default when you open the Settings app).
3. Access Recovery: Look within the System options for the section called Recovery and click on it.
4. Select “Reset this PC”: You will see a button that says Reset the device. Click to begin the process.
5. Choose whether you want to keep files: Windows will ask you if you prefer Keep my files o Remove everythingIf your goal is to avoid losing your documents, select the first option.
6. Decide the type of reinstallation: You will be offered a choice between Cloud download (slower but you'll get the most current version of Windows) or Reinstalación local (faster, uses files already on your PC). For more details, you can refer to cómo restablecer Windows 11 a la configuración de fábrica.
7. Confirm the settings: Before continuing, Windows will show you a summary of the process. You can make changes or go back if you need to.
8. Inicia el restablecimiento: If you agree, click RestoreThe computer will restart and the process will begin. It will take several minutes (or longer depending on performance and the type of installation you choose).
9. Wait for it to complete: Don't shut down or restart your PC during this process. When it's finished, you'll have a freshly installed Windows 11, but with your personal files in place if you chose to keep them.

Reset Windows 11 without being able to log in

Is your computer not booting properly or are you unable to access your account? Windows 11 allows you to start the reset process from the Entorno de Recuperación (WinRE):

• You can access WinRE by restarting your computer and, at the login screen, holding down the key. Shift while you select Reboot.
• From WinRE, access Solve problems and select Reset this PCThe process is the same as from the desktop.

This option is especially useful in the event of serious failures, system crashes, boot errors, or viruses. Remember, you can always download a imagen del sistema de Windows 11 from their official website.

What happens after the reset?

After completing the process, your computer will have a fresh Windows 11 installation, with your personal files in place if you chose to keep them.

Hay que tener en cuenta que:

• The applications que instalaste will be eliminated, but Windows will generate an HTML file on the desktop listing the removed programs to make reinstalling them easier.
• The custom configurations and settings will also be lost.
• Depending on the method, your Windows may be fully updated (cloud download) or require subsequent updates (local reinstallation).

This process is a great opportunity to install only essential applications and customize your system, improving performance and security.