Tutorial: Factory Reset Windows 11 from Command Prompt!

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Factory resetting Windows 11 is one of the most effective ways to fix serious system problems, remove malware, improve performance, or prepare a PC for resale. While most users rely on the Settings app for resetting Windows, there are situations where Windows won’t boot properly or the graphical interface becomes unusable. In such cases, Command Prompt (CMD) becomes a powerful alternative.

This tutorial explains how to factory reset Windows 11 using Command Prompt, covering every possible method in detail. Whether your system is stuck in a boot loop, running extremely slow, or refusing to load Windows normally, this guide will help you reset Windows 11 safely and correctly.

What Is a Factory Reset in Windows 11?

A factory reset restores Windows 11 to its original state, similar to when it was first installed. During this process:

  • System settings return to default

  • Installed apps are removed

  • Corrupted system files are repaired

  • Malware and unwanted software are deleted

  • Performance issues are often resolved

Windows 11 offers two reset options:

  1. Keep my files – Removes apps and settings but keeps personal files

  2. Remove everything – Completely erases files, apps, and settings

Using Command Prompt allows you to trigger these reset options even when Windows won’t load properly.

When Should You Reset Windows 11 Using Command Prompt?

Factory resetting from Command Prompt is especially useful in the following situations:

  • Windows 11 fails to boot

  • Settings app does not open

  • PC is stuck on a black screen or blue screen

  • Malware prevents normal access

  • User account is corrupted

  • You cannot log in to Windows

  • Windows keeps crashing or freezing

If your PC still boots normally, the Settings app method is easier. But if not, CMD is your best option.

Important Things to Do Before Factory Reset

Before resetting Windows 11, keep these points in mind:

Backup Important Data

A factory reset can permanently delete your files, especially if you choose Remove everything. Always back up:

  • Documents

  • Photos

  • Videos

  • Browser bookmarks

  • Product keys

Plug in Power Source

If you’re using a laptop, connect it to a charger. Power loss during reset can damage Windows installation.

Know Your Account Password

After reset, Windows may ask you to sign in using your Microsoft account.

Method 1: Factory Reset Windows 11 Using Command Prompt (When Windows Boots)

If Windows 11 still starts and you can access Command Prompt, follow these steps.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

  1. Press Windows + S

  2. Type cmd

  3. Right-click Command Prompt

  4. Select Run as administrator

Step 2: Launch Windows Reset Tool

In the Command Prompt window, type:

systemreset

Then press Enter.

Step 3: Choose Reset Option

A reset window will appear with two options:

  • Keep my files

  • Remove everything

Select the option based on your needs.

Step 4: Follow On-Screen Instructions

Windows will guide you through:

  • App removal confirmation

  • Cloud download or local reinstall

  • Final reset confirmation

Once confirmed, Windows 11 will begin resetting automatically.

Method 2: Factory Reset Windows 11 from Command Prompt (PC Won’t Boot)

If Windows 11 does not boot at all, you can access Command Prompt through Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE).

How to Access Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

You can access WinRE using any of the following methods:

Method A: Force Restart

  1. Power on your PC

  2. When Windows logo appears, press and hold the power button to shut down

  3. Repeat this process 3 times

  4. On the next boot, Windows will load Automatic Repair

Method B: Boot Menu Key

Some PCs allow WinRE access by pressing:

  • F8

  • F11

  • Esc

  • Shift + F8

(Keys depend on manufacturer)

Steps to Factory Reset Windows 11 Using CMD from WinRE

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

  1. On Automatic Repair screen, select Advanced options

  2. Click Troubleshoot

  3. Select Advanced options

  4. Click Command Prompt

Your PC may restart and ask for your account password.

Step 2: Start Reset Process via Command Prompt

In Command Prompt, type:

systemreset -factoryreset

Press Enter.

This command directly launches the factory reset wizard.

Step 3: Choose Reset Type

You’ll be asked to select:

  • Keep my files

  • Remove everything

Choose the appropriate option.

Step 4: Confirm Reset

Confirm all prompts. Windows will start the reset process automatically.

Method 3: Factory Reset Windows 11 Using CMD and WinRE Menu

If the reset command fails, you can reset Windows manually through WinRE.

Step 1: Go to Troubleshoot

  • From WinRE, select Troubleshoot

  • Click Reset this PC

Step 2: Select Reset Option

Choose:

  • Keep my files

  • Remove everything

Step 3: Choose Reinstall Method

  • Cloud download (requires internet)

  • Local reinstall

Step 4: Start Reset

Windows will reset and restart multiple times.

Method 4: Factory Reset Windows 11 Using Bootable Media + Command Prompt

This method is useful when recovery partition is damaged.

What You Need

  • Another working PC

  • USB flash drive (8GB or larger)

  • Windows 11 installation media

Step 1: Boot from USB

  1. Insert Windows 11 USB

  2. Restart PC

  3. Enter boot menu

  4. Select USB drive

Step 2: Open Command Prompt

  1. On Windows setup screen, press Shift + F10

  2. Command Prompt will open

Step 3: Start Reset

Type:

systemreset

or

systemreset -factoryreset

Press Enter and follow reset instructions.

Understanding “Keep My Files” vs “Remove Everything”

Keep My Files

  • Personal files remain

  • Apps are removed

  • System settings reset

  • Safer for beginners

Remove Everything

  • Deletes all files

  • Removes all apps

  • Ideal for selling or giving away PC

  • Best for severe malware infections

Common Errors During CMD Factory Reset and Fixes

Error: “Systemreset Command Not Found”

Fix: Ensure Command Prompt is opened from WinRE or with admin privileges.

Error: “Could Not Find Recovery Environment”

Fix: Enable recovery environment using:

reagentc /enable

Then retry reset.

Reset Stuck at Percentage

Fix:

  • Wait at least 1 hour

  • Restart PC if frozen for long time

  • Use bootable USB reset method

How Long Does Factory Reset Take?

Reset duration depends on:

  • PC hardware

  • Storage type (SSD faster than HDD)

  • Reset option chosen

Approximate time:

  • Keep my files: 30–60 minutes

  • Remove everything: 1–2 hours

What Happens After Reset?

After reset completes:

  • Windows restarts

  • Setup screen appears

  • You’ll choose language, region, keyboard

  • Sign in with Microsoft or local account

  • Windows installs default drivers

  • Desktop loads with fresh Windows 11

Post-Reset Tips for Best Performance

After resetting Windows 11:

  • Install Windows updates

  • Update device drivers

  • Reinstall essential software only

  • Enable Windows Defender

  • Create a restore point

  • Avoid installing unnecessary apps

Is Factory Reset Safe?

Yes, factory reset is safe when done correctly. It is an official Windows feature designed to recover damaged systems. However, data loss is permanent if backups are not created.

When Factory Reset Is Not Enough

In rare cases, factory reset may not fix:

  • Hardware failures

  • Dead hard drives

  • Faulty RAM

  • BIOS issues

In such cases, professional repair may be required.

Final Thoughts

Factory resetting Windows 11 using Command Prompt is a powerful solution when normal reset options are unavailable. Whether your system boots or not, CMD provides multiple reliable ways to restore Windows to a clean state. By following the steps carefully, you can fix serious system issues, remove stubborn malware, or prepare your PC for a fresh start.

This method is especially useful for advanced users, technicians, and anyone facing critical Windows problems. Always remember to back up important data and choose the reset option that best fits your situation.

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