This article will help you to understand resetting Windows and clean installation better so that you can decide the best option for you.
Windows 11 reset vs. clean install – What are the key differences?
Windows 11 reset
From Windows 8, Microsoft has introduced the reset feature. On Windows 11, this feature has gotten more polished. It is like a factory reset of a smartphone. It re-installs Windows 11, but you can keep or erase your files and apps if you want. You don’t need bootable media to reset Windows 11. There is also no need to configure the partition. In some cases, resetting can be faster than a clean installation. However, sometimes, it may be a long process, depending on various factors. While resetting, you can choose to keep your personal files or wipe the system drive as well as the entire partition, which is a great benefit. Also, no version changes occur on Windows for a reset. Users also don’t need to worry about drivers if they do reset. Everything will work well after doing a reset.
Why should I reset Windows 11?
Usually, users do a system reset on Windows 11 due to the following reasons:
To get the Windows in the default state To fix common PC problems And to get the PC performance back if it gets slower due to misconfiguration or other things
How can I reset Windows 11?
We also have a complete guide on how to factory reset Windows 11. You can check out that for more details.
Windows 11 clean installation
The clean installation gives a clean environment and a fresh Windows experience. However, unlike reset, it doesn’t let you keep your personal files. The clean installation also requires bootable media. During the installation process, you will get the option to configure your partition. You can choose to keep your files on other drives or erase them if necessary. But, the drive where you will install Windows 11 will be erased, and no personal files will be kept. SPONSORED You can pick a different version of Windows 11 while creating a bootable media. After doing a clean installation using that media, you will get the same version that you used there, not the old one installed on your PC. Another thing is you will need to install missing drivers after Windows 11 clean installation. For this, you can use DriverFix, as it can do this job quickly and automatically. If necessary, you can learn how to install drivers manually on Windows 11.
Why should I clean install Windows 11?
In general, users do a clean installation for the following reasons:
Erasing the partition and reconfiguring it Solving problems when resetting doesn’t work Upgrading to a newer version of Windows 11 After changing key hardware on the PC Creating dual boot for Windows 11 and 10 or any other OS Switching between GPT and MBR
How to clean install Windows 11?
We have a complete guide on the above steps with more details. So, we suggest you read how to install Windows 11 properly.
Should I reset or clean install Windows 11?
After looking at these differences mentioned above, you can choose the one that fits you well. If your PC is not working well and you want to keep your personal files and want to fix something, reset is the best option. It will save you from the hassle of driver installations and any reconfiguration. However, if you want to reconfigure the partition and wish to start from scratch, a clean installation is the ideal choice. In some cases, you may not be sure of what you should do. In this case, we suggest you reset your Windows 11 first. If it doesn’t solve your difficulties, do a clean installation. This article explains the differences between Windows 11 reset vs. a clean install. If you have any opinions, let us know in the comments box.
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