How to Factory Reset Windows Using Command Prompt

If your Windows computer is running slow or facing issues that can’t be fixed through regular troubleshooting, performing a factory reset might be a good solution. This process will return your computer to its original state, as if it was newly installed. In this guide, we’ll show you how to reset Windows using the Command Prompt if you can't access the standard reset options.

Important Things to Consider Before Resetting

  • Make sure to back up important data, as everything on the computer will be erased during the reset.
  • Ensure your laptop or PC is connected to a power source to prevent any interruptions during the process.
  • Close all open applications and save any ongoing work to avoid losing data.

Method 1: Using Command Prompt with the systemreset Utility

You can use the built-in systemreset utility to reset Windows to its factory settings via Command Prompt. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Press Win + R, type cmd, then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to open it with admin privileges.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, enter the following command and press Enter:
systemreset --factoryreset

This command will open the system reset window, where you can choose one of the following options:

  • Keep my files — This option will remove apps and settings but keep your personal files.
  • Remove everything — This will perform a full reset, deleting all apps, drivers, and personal files.

Note:

If the systemreset command does not work or returns an error, it may be disabled in your version of Windows or the system might be corrupted. In such cases, try using the recovery environment method.

Method 2: Resetting Windows via the Recovery Environment (WinRE)

If you can’t access the system or the systemreset command fails, use the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE):

  1. Restart your computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 during startup to enter the recovery environment (this depends on your Windows version).
  2. Navigate to Troubleshoot → Reset this PC.
  3. Choose your preferred reset option, as described above.