How to Reset Windows 11 Without Deleting Your Personal Files
Goal: Windows 11 can reinstall itself while keeping personal files in your user profile, but Keep my files is not a backup . Installed applications are removed and many settings are reset. This guide explains what the option really preserves, what to back up first, how to choose between cloud download and local reinstall, how BitLocker affects recovery, and which less intrusive repair options should be tried before a reset. Quick steps Back up irreplaceable files to an independent drive or trusted cloud location. Open Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC. Select Keep my files , not Remove everything. Choose Cloud download if you want fresh Windows files and have a reliable connection, or Local reinstall if you prefer to reuse files already on the PC. Read the summary of removed applications and changed settings before confirming. Keep a laptop connected to power and do not interrupt restarts. Expected result: Windows is reinstalled, personal files in supported profile...