Can I Reset My PC Without Losing Games?
Resetting a PC without losing games and other important data is a common concern for many users, and the answer is yes, it is possible to do so, but with certain limitations and precautions, such as using the “Keep my files” option when resetting the PC, which allows you to retain your personal files, but not the installed applications and games. To achieve this, it is essential to back up your game data and progress regularly, as well as to consider using cloud storage or external hard drives to store your game files and other important data.
Understanding the Reset Process
Resetting a PC can be a straightforward process, but it requires careful consideration and planning to avoid losing important data, including games. The “Reset this PC” feature in Windows 10 and Windows 11 allows users to reset their PC to its default settings, while giving them the option to keep their files or remove everything.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Do I Reset My PC Without Losing Games?
To reset your PC without losing games, go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Recovery > Reset this PC > Get Started, then select Keep my files, choose cloud or local, change your settings, and set Restore preinstalled apps to No.
2. Is There a Way to Reset a PC Without Losing Apps?
Under the Reset the PC, click on the option for Get Started, choose the option for Keep My Files or Remove everything, confirm the warning to agree that your apps will be uninstalled, and click on the Reset option to completely reinstall Windows 10 without losing the apps.
3. Is it OK to Reset Your Gaming PC?
A reset is a simple way to improve your computer’s performance and make it easier to use, by restoring the default settings, freeing up space on your hard drive, and reducing the load time for programs.
4. What Are the Disadvantages of Resetting PC?
System Reset is good if you want a clean slate, and it can be effective at removing malware, but it deletes your personal files as well as reinstalling the system files.
5. How To Reinstall Windows 10 Without Losing Apps, Data Or Files
To reinstall Windows 10 without losing apps, data, or files, make sure to back up your data before reinstalling, and use the “Keep my files” option when resetting the PC.
6. How Often Should You Reset Your PC?
A Windows computer should be shut down, or even better, restarted, once a week or so with ‘fast startup’ turned off to ensure it properly shuts down all processes and cleans up.
7. What to Consider Before Resetting PC?
Before resetting your PC, consider backing up your data, deactivating or deauthorizing your software, and having a copy of the operating system to reinstall.
8. Will Resetting PC Make It Faster?
Resetting your PC can temporarily speed up your computer, but there is no guarantee that it will stay that way for long, as your computer may return to its slow state as it gets used over time.
9. How Often Should You Factory Reset Your Gaming PC?
It is a good idea to reset Windows 10 if you can, preferably every six months, when possible, to remove tons of data over time and improve performance.
10. Does Resetting PC Fix Most Problems?
Resetting your PC can fix some problems, but it is not necessarily the best first step for solving technical issues, such as slow boot times, internet connectivity issues, or bad battery life.
11. What Apps Are Removed When Resetting PC?
Resetting Windows 10 will remove all your installed applications, including Store Apps, but you can log into the Microsoft Store and reinstall any games or apps you already own.
12. Does Resetting PC Remove Windows?
No, you will not lose your Windows OS if your factory restores your computer, as it will reinstall a fresh update of Windows 10.
13. How to Reinstall Recover the Apps Removed After Resetting PC?
To reinstall apps removed after resetting your PC, use System Restore to recover uninstalled programs, or log into the Microsoft Store and reinstall any games or apps you already own.
14. Does a Factory Reset Delete Game Files?
Currently, a factory reset removes all data, including saved game progress, so it is essential to back up your game data regularly.
15. Will I Lose Windows 11 If I Reset My PC?
Resetting your PC will reinstall Windows 11, but you can choose whether to keep your files or remove them, and you can reset your PC from Settings, the sign-in screen, or by using a recovery drive or installation media.