How to Reset Only C Drive on Windows 11

First, move your important files in system drive to another location

5 min. read

Published onNovember 8, 2023

published onNovember 8, 2023

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If you are having problems with your Windows 11 computer, the best way to fix it is to reset it, and with the latest versions, Windows allows you to reset only the C drive, leaving other drives as they are.

In this guide, we will discuss three simple methods to reset your PC and get it working without deleting the data on other drives.

How do I reset only the C drive in Windows 11?

Before proceeding with the steps to reset the C drive on Windows 11, make sure you have checked these things:

1. Using the Settings app

Your Windows will start to reset, the computer will reboot a few times, and the process will take some time to finish. Once done, you will greeted with the lock screen, then use the user account password to log in to your Windows 11.

If you want to know what apps have been removed from your computer, check the Removed Apps.html file saved on the desktop to get a list of apps you need to reinstall.

However, if you select Remove everything, all the personal files from the system drive will be wiped. Once the system is reset, you will get a setup screen, wherein you need to select the Keyboard layout, accept the license agreement, choose a network, sign in to a Microsoft account, and more before you can use your Windows PC again.

2. Using the Advanced Startup screen

Your computer will reset, then restart a few times, and once it is finished, you will get the login screen on your computer or setup page, depending on what to choose while resetting your PC.

If youcannot refresh your PC because it is locked, then the advanced startup screen can help you fix that issue; read this guide to learn more about it.

3. Using the Command Prompt

The process will take a few minutes, and your computer will restart a few times, so make sure you plug it into the charger if using a laptop. Once done, you will be taken to the setup page or the sign-in screen, depending on your choices.

This is one of the easiest ways to reset your Windows computer, and youdon’t have to use the Settings app for the same.

How can I format the C drive without deleting the OS?

You can reset the C drive without deleting the Windows operating system using the Command Prompt with administrative rights.

Remember, if you want to remove all your files from the system drive and bring your device to factory settings, select Remove everything.

However, if you have decided to keep the files, choose Keep my files and use the Cloud download option to download & install Windows only if you have enough disk space to complete the process.

In case you can’t perform certain operations on your computer asyour system drive is locked, you need to check your computer for bad sectors or corrupted system files; read this guide to learn more.

If you have any questions or suggestions about the subject, don’t hesitate to mention them in the comments section below.

How to Reset Only C Drive on Windows 11#

How do I reset only the C drive in Windows 11?#

1. Using the Settings app#

2. Using the Advanced Startup screen#

3. Using the Command Prompt#

How can I format the C drive without deleting the OS?#