Resetting Windows 10 via Command Prompt: A Practical Guide
If Windows 10 is behaving like a moody teenager again, sometimes the easiest fix is to give it a fresh start with a factory reset. Using the command prompt might sound a bit technical, but rest assured, it’s straightforward enough. This method clears out all the clutter — think malware, settings chaos, or years of digital dust — and gets your PC running smoothly again. Just a quick heads-up: resetting will wipe your entire drive unless you opt to keep your files, so backup anything important first. Otherwise, you might end up with a blue screen of regret instead of a fresh start.
Getting to the Command Line
Start by opening the command prompt with administrator rights. A handy trick is to press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog. Type cmd and then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to launch it as an administrator. Alternatively, you can search for Command Prompt in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator. Being an admin is essential for the reset commands to work properly.
Executing the Reset Command
With the command prompt open, type in this command:
systemreset -factoryresetIf your PC throws a tantrum and says it doesn’t recognise the command, double-check that you’re running Windows 10 version 1803 or later. If you’re on an older version, no worries — the recovery options are still available via the recovery environment.
Choosing Your Reset Options
After entering the command, Windows will most likely display a user-friendly interface guiding you through the process. You can select Remove everything (the nuclear option) or Keep my files, which saves personal documents but resets apps and settings. If malware is a concern, choosing the drive clean option is wise; it takes longer but ensures nasties are thoroughly removed.
Letting It Do Its Thing
Once you’ve made your choice, follow the instructions on screen. The reset process might start immediately or after a quick restart. Be prepared — it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on your hardware and which options you chose. It’s crucial to keep your device plugged in during this process, as a power outage could turn this into a nightmare.
Post-Reset: Starting Fresh
When the reset is completed, your system will greet you like it’s new out of the box. You’ll need to set up user accounts again and tweak your preferences. If you chose to keep your files, they should be where you left them, but all your apps and settings will be reset to default. Don’t forget to check for updates afterwards by heading to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates.
Quick Tips for a Seamless Factory Reset
Before you get started, keep these tips in mind:
- Back up your data — it’s a lifesaver. Use File History or copy your files to an external drive.
- Make sure your device is plugged into power to avoid interruptions during the reset.
- If you can’t access the command prompt, try booting into recovery mode by holding Shift + Restart and selecting Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
Frequently Asked Questions After a Reset
Just a quick heads-up: the reset is usually a one-way process. It clears out most malware, but some nasties may be lurking deeper in the system. For those, you might need to update the BIOS or run specialised security tools. After everything’s done, check your device drivers in Device Manager or through Windows Update to ensure everything’s running smoothly again.
Recap: The Key Steps to Reset Windows 10 via Command Line
- Open the command prompt with administrator privileges (click Start, search for Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator).
- Enter:
systemreset -factoryreset. - Pick whether to keep your files or wipe everything.
- Follow the prompts on screen.
- Sit tight and wait for the process to complete — it can take some time.
That’s pretty much it! Resetting Windows 10 through the command prompt is a powerful way to get your PC back in shape — just remember to back up your files first, choose your reset options wisely, and be patient. If you’re comfortable with command line operations, this method can save a lot of hassle and help you start fresh.
Hopefully, this saves you a few hours — or at least helps you tidy up those pesky issues.