reseting settings without losing all my data and apps

Question

Hello!

so i want to reset all the settings of my laptop to initial settings (since its freezing a lot), and I want to know if there is a way to do so without losing all my apps and games. I have multiple users on this LAPTOP , so would they all be reset and lose thier APPs?

* Moved from Office/Other/Unknown/Forms

Answer 1

Hi Welcome to Microsoft community. Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer a way to reset your laptop to its initial settings without losing your installed apps and personal data, though it's important to note that this process will affect all users on the laptop. Here's how you can reset your laptop settings while keeping your files:

1. Back up your data: Even though the reset option allows you to keep your files, it's always a good practice to back up your important data before proceeding with any reset or major system change.
2. Resetting your laptop:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security (In Windows 11, it's Settings > System > Recovery).
   • Click on Recovery.
   • Under the Reset this PC option, click Get started.
   • You will be presented with two options: Keep my files and Remove everything. Choose Keep my files. This will remove apps and settings but keeps your personal files.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions:
   • The system will guide you through the process. You'll be able to choose which accounts and data to keep. Be sure to read each screen carefully to make the choices that best suit your needs.
   • The process will reinstall Windows, but keep your personal files and any apps that came with your PC. However, it will remove apps and drivers you installed, as well as any changes you made to the settings.
4. Reinstalling Applications:
   • For apps and games not part of the original system configuration, you'll likely need to reinstall them. If you've purchased or downloaded apps from the Microsoft Store, you can easily reinstall them from there. For third-party apps, you'll need the original installation media or download them from the official sites.
5. Multiple Users:
   • Since you mentioned having multiple users on the laptop, be aware that resetting the PC will affect all users. While personal files can be kept, all users will likely need to reinstall any third-party applications they've added and reconfigure their settings.

Even with the "Keep my files" option, some personal settings and customizations might be lost, so you might want to note down or take screenshots of any specific settings you want to restore after the reset.Let me know if you need further assistance.Best regardsDerrick Qian | Microsoft Community Support Specialist