For various reasons, sometimes you’ll want to factory reset your Windows 11 computer. Factory reset is an operation that returns the computer to its original state with default settings.

There are a few ways to make this work, but all of them require you to be logged in and the computer with an admin account. However, there will be times when you get stuck at the login screen due to forgetting your password and then you will need factory reset methods without a password.

How to Reset Windows 11 To Factory when I Forgot the Password?

There are two ways to help you reset Windows 11 without admin password:

• Use the Recovery option
• Reinstall Windows from scratch with USB boot

Here are the details of how to reset Windows 11 to factory without password.

1. Use the Recovery option

The Windows Recovery option is a function that contains several useful tools when your computer has problems booting or other problems. With this option, you can reset your Windows 11 computer without a password and here are the steps:

Turn on your computer and wait until the login screen appears.

Press and hold the Shift button on the keyboard then move the mouse to the bottom right corner of the screen and click Power then click Restart while still holding the Shift button.

If a confirmation window appears, select Restart Anyway.

When you see a screen with the word “Please wait” appear, release the Shift button.

You should see your computer access Windows Recovery.

In the screen titled Choose an option, select Troubleshoot.

Now, select Reset this PC in the Troubleshoot screen.

In the Reset this PC screen, you’ll see two options: Keep my files and Remove everything. You choose one of these two options according to your needs.

You will see two more options, Cloud Download and Local Reinstall. TipsMake.com recommends choosing Local Reinstall but if it doesn’t work, you can try Cloud Download.

Finally, click Reset to confirm reinstalling your Windows 11 computer.

The process of resetting Windows 11 will take some time, you will have to wait for the process to complete.

Note: If you can’t access Windows Recovery Options by Shift + Restart, you can try hot shutdown (press and hold the power button) about 2 to 4 times, the computer will automatically access Windows Recovery Options.

2. Reinstall Windows from Scratch with USB Boot

Reinstalling Windows from scratch with a USB boot is another way you can use it to reset your Windows 11 computer without a password. However, this way will not have the option to keep files so all files saved on the computer’s Windows drive will be deleted.

If you want to reinstall Windows from scratch with USB boot, the way to do it is as follows:

Prepare a USB to install Windows.

Connect the Windows installation USB to the computer you need to reset.

Restart the computer and press the F8, F9 or Esc button depending on the computer manufacturer to access the Boot option.

On the Boot options screen, you choose to boot from USB for the computer to connect and boot with the USB that you plugged in earlier. Save Boot options and exit.

The process of installing Windows 11 you can refer to here: Instructions to install Windows 11, install Win 11 with an ISO file.

After reinstalling Windows 11, you need to start setting up your computer again.

Bonus tip: Resetting Windows 11 to Factory Settings without Password

Losing or forgetting your Windows 11 password can be a frustrating experience, especially when you need to reset your operating system to its factory settings. However, there are ways to perform this reset without requiring a password. In this section, we will explore three methods that will allow you to reset Windows 11 to its factory settings effortlessly.

Method 1: Using the “Reset this PC” Feature

The “Reset this PC” feature in Windows 11 provides a convenient way to restore your system to its factory settings. Here’s how you can use it even if you’ve forgotten your password:

1. Access the Windows 11 Recovery Options: Start by accessing the Windows 11 recovery options. To do this, click on the Start menu and then on the “Settings” gear icon. In the Settings menu, select “System” and then click on “Recovery” in the left sidebar.
2. Select “Reset this PC”: Once you’re in the Recovery menu, you’ll see the option labeled “Reset this PC.” Click on it to proceed.
3. Initiate the Reset Process: Windows 11 will present you with two options: “Keep my files” or “Remove everything.” Choose the option that suits your needs. Since you want to perform a complete factory reset, select “Remove everything.”
4. Proceed without Password: Windows 11 will prompt you for a password, but in this case, you can simply skip it by clicking on “Next.” This will allow you to proceed with the reset process without needing to enter a password.

Method 2: Using Installation Media

Another method to reset Windows 11 to factory settings without a password involves using installation media. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Create Bootable Installation Media: Begin by creating a bootable USB or DVD with the Windows 11 installation files. You can do this by downloading the Windows 11 ISO file from the official Microsoft website and using a tool like Rufus to create the bootable media.
2. Boot from the Installation Media: Insert the bootable USB or DVD into your computer and restart it. Make sure your computer is set to boot from the installation media. You can usually access the boot menu by pressing a key (e.g., F12 or Esc) during startup.
3. Start the Reset Process: Once your computer boots from the installation media, you’ll be presented with the Windows 11 installation wizard. Proceed through the initial setup until you reach the “Install Windows” screen.
4. Select “Custom Installation”: On the “Install Windows” screen, click on “Next” and then select “Custom Installation” instead of “Upgrade.” This will take you to the partition selection screen.
5. Delete Existing Partitions: In the partition selection screen, delete all existing partitions on your system drive. This will erase all data, including your forgotten password.
6. Install Windows 11: After deleting the partitions, select the unallocated space and click on “Next.” Windows 11 will now begin the installation process, effectively resetting your system to its factory settings without requiring a password.

Method 3: Using Advanced Startup Options

Windows 11 provides advanced startup options that allow you to troubleshoot and perform system maintenance tasks, including resetting the operating system without a password. Here’s how to access and utilize these options:

Windows 11 provides advanced startup options that allow you to troubleshoot and perform system maintenance tasks, including resetting the operating system without a password. Here’s how to access and utilize these options:

Access Advanced Startup Options: Click on the Start menu and then on the power icon. While holding down the Shift key, click on “Restart.” This action will initiate a restart and take you to the advanced startup options menu.

Select the Reset Option: In the advanced startup options menu, click on “Troubleshoot” and then select “Reset this PC.” This will open the reset options for your Windows 11 system.

Proceed with the Reset: Windows 11 will provide you with two reset options: “Keep my files” or “Remove everything.” Choose the option that aligns with your preferences and requirements. Selecting “Remove everything” will perform a complete factory reset, erasing all your files, applications, and settings.

Confirmation and Reset Process: After selecting the reset option, Windows 11 may prompt you for a password. However, similar to the previous methods, you can bypass the password requirement by clicking on the “Next” button without entering any password. This will initiate the reset process, and Windows 11 will begin resetting your system to its factory settings.

It’s important to note that the exact steps and options may vary slightly depending on your specific device and Windows 11 version. Always pay attention to the instructions and prompts displayed on your screen during the reset process.

Remember to exercise caution and ensure that you have backed up any important files before proceeding with the reset. Additionally, be aware that resetting Windows 11 will remove all installed applications and data, so it’s crucial to have a backup of anything you wish to retain.

Precautions and Considerations

Before proceeding with the reset process, it’s important to keep in mind a few precautions and considerations to ensure a smooth and safe experience. Here are some essential points to consider:

Back up Your Important Files

Resetting Windows 11 to its factory settings will erase all the data on your system drive. Therefore, it’s crucial to back up any important files or documents that you don’t want to lose. This includes photos, videos, documents, and any other personal data. Consider using an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another computer to securely store your files before initiating the reset process.

Exercise Caution and Use Authorized Methods:

While the methods described in this article allow you to reset Windows 11 without a password, it’s important to use them responsibly and only on systems you own or have proper authorization to access. Unauthorized use of these methods can violate privacy laws and breach ethical boundaries. Always ensure that you have the necessary permissions and rights to perform a reset.

Understand the Risks and Limitations

Resetting Windows 11 to its factory settings without a password is a powerful action that should be approached with caution. It’s essential to be aware of the risks and limitations associated with the process. For instance, resetting your system will delete all your installed applications, settings, and data. Additionally, there is a small chance that the reset process may encounter errors or complications. Understanding these risks will help you make an informed decision and proceed with appropriate caution.

Seek Professional Assistance if Unsure

If you are uncertain about performing a reset or encounter any difficulties during the process, it’s always recommended to seek professional assistance. Certified technicians or IT experts can provide guidance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure that the reset is performed correctly. They can also offer valuable advice on data backup strategies and help you navigate any complexities that may arise.

Update Your Security Measures

After resetting Windows 11 to its factory settings, it’s essential to update and strengthen your security measures. This includes installing reliable antivirus software, enabling a firewall, and keeping your operating system and other software up to date. Taking these steps will help protect your system from potential security threats and ensure a safer computing environment.

Importance of Password Management

Managing passwords effectively is crucial not only for the security of your Windows 11 system but also to avoid the inconvenience of forgetting passwords and resorting to a factory reset. Let’s delve into the significance of password management and provide practical tips to enhance your password practices.

1. Creating Strong and Memorable Passwords: A. Encourage users to create strong passwords using a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. This helps prevent brute-force attacks and enhances the security of their accounts. B. Suggest using passphrases instead of simple passwords, as they are easier to remember and harder to crack. For example, “MyCatJumpedOverTheMoon!” is more secure than a shorter, single-word password. C. Emphasize the importance of avoiding commonly used passwords or personal information like names, birthdates, or addresses, as they are easily guessable.
2. Password Management Tools: A. Recommend utilizing password management tools such as LastPass, KeePass, or Dashlane. These tools securely store and generate complex passwords, alleviating the burden of remembering multiple passwords. B. Explain the benefits of using a master password to protect the password manager itself, ensuring that all passwords are securely encrypted.
3. Regular Password Updates: A. Highlight the significance of regularly updating passwords. Encourage users to change their passwords periodically, ideally every three to six months. B. Remind readers to update passwords immediately after any potential security breach or suspicion of unauthorized access.
4. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): A. Advocate for enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible. Explain that 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a secondary verification method, such as a text message code or biometric authentication. B. Provide instructions on how to set up and use 2FA with Microsoft accounts or third-party authentication apps to enhance security.
5. Secure Password Recovery Options: A. Discuss the importance of setting up secure password recovery options. Guide users to configure alternative email addresses or phone numbers for account recovery, which can help regain access without resorting to a factory reset. B. Encourage users to set up password hints to assist in remembering passwords, without compromising their security.

Alternative Account Recovery Methods

In the event of forgetting your Windows 11 password, there are alternative methods available to recover or reset your account without resorting to a factory reset. Let’s explore some of these methods and how they can help you regain access to your account.

Microsoft Account Recovery Options: If you use a Microsoft account to sign in to Windows 11, Microsoft offers account recovery options. You can visit the Microsoft account recovery webpage and follow the prompts to recover your account using alternate email addresses, phone numbers, or security questions associated with your Microsoft account. These recovery options provide a convenient way to regain access without needing to perform a factory reset.

Local Account Password Reset Tools: Consider thevailability of local account password reset tools. These tools can help reset the password for a local Windows 11 account without requiring the original password. You can find various reputable third-party tools online that offer password reset capabilities. At the same time, it’s important to exercise caution when using third-party tools and ensure they download them from trusted sources to avoid potential security risks.

Contacting Microsoft Support: In scenarios where other methods aren’t feasible or successful, reach out to Microsoft support for assistance. Microsoft support representatives can guide users through the account recovery process or provide further instructions based on the specific situation.

It’s important to note that the availability and effectiveness of these alternative account recovery methods may depend on various factors, such as the type of account (Microsoft account or local account) and the information associated with the account.

System Recovery Points

System recovery points play a crucial role in Windows 11, allowing you to revert your system to a previous stable state without the need for a password reset. Understanding how system recovery points work and knowing how to utilize them can be invaluable. Let’s explore the importance and practical aspects of system recovery points.

1. What are System Recovery Points? System recovery points serve as snapshots of your Windows 11 system’s settings, files, and configurations at a specific point in time. These recovery points capture critical system files, registry settings, and configurations, enabling you to restore your system to a previously working state.
2. Creating System Recovery Points: Creating system recovery points is a proactive step in safeguarding your system. You can access the System Protection settings by searching for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu or by navigating to the System Properties dialog. It’s recommended to create recovery points regularly, especially before making significant changes to your system such as installing new software, drivers, or performing system updates.
3. Restoring Windows 11 using System Recovery Points: When you encounter issues or instability after a change or update, you can restore Windows 11 to a previous state using system recovery points. Access the System Properties dialog (similar to where you created the recovery points) and click on the “System Restore” button to initiate the restoration process. During the restoration, Windows 11 will revert system files, registry settings, and configurations to the state captured by the selected recovery point.
4. Benefits and Considerations: System recovery points offer several benefits, including the ability to roll back system changes, resolve issues caused by recent updates or installations, and recover from system instability without resorting to a password reset. It’s important to note that while system recovery points restore system files and configurations, they may not recover user files and data. Regularly backing up your important files separately ensures their safety.
5. Limitations and Recommendations: System recovery points have certain limitations. They do not protect against hardware failures, disk corruption, or certain types of malware attacks. To ensure comprehensive system protection, consider implementing additional backup solutions, such as regular data backups to external drives or cloud storage services.
6. Monitoring and Managing System Recovery Points: It’s beneficial to periodically review and manage your system recovery points. You can access the System Protection settings to view and delete older recovery points to free up storage space. Regularly monitor the health and functionality of your system recovery points to ensure they are available when needed.

Post-Reset Configuration

After resetting Windows 11 to its factory settings, there are important steps to follow to ensure a smooth transition and restore your system to a personalized state. Let’s explore the key aspects of post-reset configuration and provide guidance on what to do after completing the reset process.

1. Reconfiguring System Settings: Start by reviewing and adjusting system settings according to your preferences. This includes personalizing your desktop background, screen resolution, theme, and other visual settings. Check and modify system preferences such as language settings, date and time, power management options, and privacy settings to align with your requirements.
2. Reinstalling Essential Applications: Identify the essential applications that were removed during the reset process. Make a list of the applications you need to reinstall. Prioritize the installation of crucial software such as web browsers, productivity suites, media players, and antivirus software. Install these applications from trusted sources and ensure they are up to date.
3. Restoring Backed-Up Files: If you followed best practices and backed up your important files before performing the reset, now is the time to restore them. Connect the external drive or access the cloud storage where you stored your files. Copy the files back to their respective locations on your system, such as Documents, Pictures, Music, and Videos folders.
4. Configuring User Accounts and Profiles: Set up user accounts and profiles if you were using multiple accounts on your Windows 11 system. Create new accounts or sign in to existing accounts to personalize your user experience. Customize user account settings, such as account pictures, display names, and account types (e.g., Administrator or Standard User).
5. Updating Windows 11 and Drivers: After the reset, ensure that your Windows 11 operating system is up to date. Go to the Windows Update settings and check for available updates. Install any pending updates to enhance security and performance. Additionally, update your device drivers, especially for critical components like graphics cards, network adapters, and sound devices. Visit the manufacturer’s website or use Windows Update to download and install the latest drivers.
6. Restoring Customizations and Preferences: If you had personalized settings or customizations before the reset, take the time to restore them. This may include custom keyboard shortcuts, taskbar configurations, folder options, or specific software settings. Reinstall any plugins, extensions, or add-ons for web browsers and other applications, ensuring your preferred features and functionalities are restored.
7. Testing and Verifying System Functionality: Perform thorough testing of your system after the reset and configuration process. Check if all essential applications are working correctly, and verify that your files, folders, and user accounts are intact. Address any issues or errors that may arise during this testing phase. Troubleshoot and seek assistance from appropriate support channels or forums if needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

During the reset process or after completing the post-reset configuration, you may encounter common issues that require troubleshooting. Let’s explore some of these potential issues and provide guidance on how to address them effectively.

Compatibility Issues with Hardware or Software

One common issue that may arise after resetting Windows 11 is compatibility problems with certain hardware components or software applications. Here’s how you can tackle this:

Verify Compatibility: Check the manufacturer’s website or documentation for hardware compatibility with Windows 11. Ensure that your hardware components meet the system requirements.

Update Drivers: Download and install the latest drivers for your hardware components from the manufacturer’s website. Updated drivers often provide better compatibility with Windows 11 and can resolve compatibility issues.

Software Updates: Ensure that your software applications are updated to the latest versions compatible with Windows 11. Visit the developer’s website or use the built-in update mechanism within the applications to check for updates.

Compatibility Mode: If you encounter compatibility issues with specific software applications, try running them in compatibility mode. Right-click on the application’s executable file, go to “Properties,” and under the “Compatibility” tab, select the appropriate compatibility settings for older versions of Windows.

Network Connectivity Problems

If you experience network connectivity issues after resetting Windows 11, follow these troubleshooting steps:

Restart Network Devices: Restart your router, modem, or any other network devices. This can often resolve temporary connectivity issues.

Check Network Settings: Verify that your network adapter is functioning correctly. Open the Network Settings in Windows 11 and ensure that your adapter is enabled and connected to the correct network.

Update Network Drivers: Visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest network drivers for your network adapter. Install the updated drivers to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.

Application Compatibility and Installation Errors

Encountering compatibility issues or errors while installing applications is not uncommon. Here’s how you can troubleshoot such problems:

Compatibility Check: Confirm that the application you are trying to install is compatible with Windows 11. Check the developer’s website or documentation for any specific compatibility requirements or updates.

Run as Administrator: Right-click on the application’s installer file and select “Run as administrator.” This can help overcome certain installation errors related to user permissions.

Temporary Disable Antivirus: Temporarily disable your antivirus software during the installation process. Antivirus programs may sometimes interfere with the installation of certain applications.

Install in Safe Mode: If you continue to encounter installation errors, try installing the application in Safe Mode. To enter Safe Mode, restart your computer and repeatedly press the F8 key until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears. From there, select Safe Mode and attempt the installation.

System Performance and Sluggishness

If your system is experiencing performance issues or seems sluggish after the reset, consider these troubleshooting steps:

Task Manager: Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc and check for resource-intensive processes or applications. End any unnecessary processes or applications that may be consuming excessive system resources.

Disk Cleanup: Use the built-in Disk Cleanup utility in Windows 11 to remove temporary files, system junk, and other unnecessary files that may be impacting system performance. This can help free up disk space and improve overall system responsiveness.

Scan for Malware: Perform a full system scan with your antivirus software to detect and remove any malware or viruses that could be causing performance issues. Ensure your antivirus software is up to date with the latest virus definitions.

The above article has instructed you how to reset Windows 11 to factory when you forgot the password. Wish you all success with those steps and see you in the next tech guides at our tech blog.