Windows 10 and Windows 11 Recovery

At times, Windows 10 and Windows 11 might encounter issues due to software glitches, malware, or update conflicts. In such cases, you may need to restore your system to bring it back to normal functionality. This comprehensive guide covers various recovery methods for Windows 10 and Windows 11, from built-in tools to more advanced solutions.

1. Using the Built-In System Restore Tool

The easiest way to restore your system is by using System Restore points. These points are automatically created during updates or driver installations, but you can also create them manually.

  1. Open Control Panel and go to System and Security.
  2. Select System Protection and click on System Restore.
  3. Choose a restore point created before the issue occurred and follow the wizard’s instructions.

This method allows you to revert your system to a stable state without affecting your personal files.

2. Resetting Windows with Options to Keep or Remove Files

If System Restore does not resolve the issue, you can opt to reset Windows. This is a more comprehensive method that restores Windows to its original state.

  1. Click Start and go to Settings → Update & Security → Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
  3. Choose one of the following options:
    • Keep my files — This option keeps your personal data but removes installed apps.
    • Remove everything — This option deletes all your files, apps, and settings.

After resetting, Windows will reinstall itself, often resolving issues caused by corrupted files or malware.

3. Recovering Windows Using Installation Media

If your system won’t boot, you can use a bootable USB drive or disc with the Windows installer for recovery.

  1. Create a bootable media using the official Microsoft tool.
  2. Boot from the USB drive and select Repair your computer in the setup menu.
  3. Go to Troubleshoot → Startup Repair or System Restore to fix the issue.

This method can resolve severe problems that standard Windows tools cannot fix.

4. Using Command Prompt for System Repair

Advanced users can use the Command Prompt for system recovery, which can be helpful if the graphical interface is unavailable.

sfc /scannow

This command scans for and repairs corrupted system files.

chkdsk /f /r

This command checks your hard drive for errors and attempts to fix them.

5. Booting into Safe Mode for Troubleshooting

If Windows cannot start normally, try booting into Safe Mode, a special mode that loads only essential system components.

  1. Restart your computer and press F8 or Shift + F8 during boot (depending on your device).
  2. Select Safe Mode from the boot menu.
  3. Use built-in recovery tools or the Command Prompt to fix any issues.