How to Fix “There was a Problem Resetting your PC” Error? Detailed Guide
Overview: Both Windows 10/11 have system reset options to bring the PC back to a fresh state. But unfortunately many of us face this error indicating “There was a problem resetting your PC” on your respective PC.
As, it means that it blocks the reset process from finishing so that users are left in a broken state. Like they have to stay with whatever system or performance problem they were trying to solve. In this informative article, we will discuss why this error occurs and provide you with multiple manual ways to solve the problem without putting your personal data at risk.
Before moving on, read this blog to know what is factory reset?
“There was a Problem Resetting your PC No Changes were Made” Issue – Reasons Behind
There are a number of factors which can stop you from resetting your system. Below are the causes behind it.
- Corrupted or missing system files – The reset tool won’t be able to rebuild the system when essential Windows files or registry hives are corrupt. One of the most frequent reasons for reset failures involves corrupted system files. You can also try an SFC (System File Checker) scan to fix these.
- Hard drive / disk errors – There can be errors on the disk that can interrupt the reset like bad sectors, file system errors, etc. A failure error in the boot record (MBR/BCD) or other drive related problems can cause the reset problem.
- Not enough free space or small recovery partition – Windows needs enough free space and a proper size of recovery part to unpack and reinstall. If the C: drive is running low on disk space or the Windows Recovery (WinRE) partition is too small or not available.
- Malicious elements or Third Party Interruption – Some third party software can block your reset or damage important elements. Viruses or malware can be at the root of Windows problems. Also, anti virus tools can also incorrectly block reset components. So, temporarily disabling them can help with this too.
- An interrupted Reset – When a computer is connected to power and the reset is interrupted during the process. It is either by force or loss of power. The reset does not progress to completion and Windows becomes corrupt. For example, if your PC loses power partway through this process then it may delete the files you need.
- Outdated or incompatible drivers : A bad Windows update or driver conflict can cause reset problems. Some users have reported uninstalling the most recent updates or deleting problematic drivers in Safe Mode. Then, it leads you to complete your reset process and prevent failure.
Any of these factors will make reset to fail. The upcoming sections outline ways to reset and repair these issues.
How to Fix “There was a Problem Resetting your PC” Error? Manual Methods
There are various methods you can try to resolve this issue. Let’s try one by one to make your reset process smooth and start your PC fresh.
#1. Fix Corrupted System Files Using SFC & DISM
Using this method, you are going to solve this error quickly. Just run the following command to fix corrupted files.
1. Go to the Windows search bar and type CMD and open as Administrator mode.
2. Next, run the following command:
sfc /scannow
3. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for it to complete.
4. It will automatically fix files that are missing or corrupted.
If SFC can’t fix your problem, then there may be a problem with your Windows installation. Use DISM command to fix the problem:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- This refreshes the system image with added Windows updates.
- Requires an active internet connection.
- Restart Your PC.
- Try resetting again after the fixing is done.
#2. Try Fresh Start Through Windows Security
If you can’t reset your PC, you can try the Fresh start feature in Windows Security. It reinstalls Windows without eliminating your personal files and restores your system to a state in which it can run without problems.
1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
2. Select Device performance & health.
3. Under Fresh Start on the page that appears click on Additional Info.
4. Choose Get Started and then follow the instructions.
Tips:
- You will receive the most current version of Windows with the least amount of bloatware.
- Personal files remain there, but you lose all desktop apps including MS Office which you may have installed.
- Backup license keys before proceeding.
Also read: how to factory reset PC?
#3. Reboot using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
Boot into Windows Recovery Environment to troubleshoot various issues such as your “There was a Problem Resetting your PC” error. One can perform repairs to system, resets and your PC recovery safely with this.
1. Right click on the Windows logo and go to the settings option.
2. Then, go to Update & security > Recovery.
3. Next click on the Restart now button under advanced startup.
4. On the blue screen go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC option.
5. Choose between:
- Keep my files
- Remove everything
6. If you want to choose your Windows installation drive which is usually located at C:
7. Just keep performing the process and eventually the reset will go through.
Now, your error “There was a Problem Resetting your PC” will be solved.
#4. Clean Installation From Bootable Media
You will need your own bootable media in order to perform a clean install on Windows 10/11. It provides a great way to start your system. As, you can clean & install Windows by following the below steps.
1. Download the Media Creation Tool from Microsoft website.
2. Plug in an empty USB stick 8GB or more and make it bootable.
3. Then, reboot your PC and start the machine from the USB using Boot Menu or BIOS.
4. Choose Install Now.
5. Select:
- choose to keep only personal files.
Remember:
- Back up your important data before going with the method.
- After reinstalling your PC, make sure to install device drivers and keep your Windows up to date.
- Reinstall apps one by one.
#5. Error “There was a Problem Resetting your PC” – Instant Fix
Conclusion
“There was a problem resetting your PC” error is usually due to the missing or corrupted system files, corrupted recovery environments, or incompatible settings. Good news is that it can be resolved with built-in tools such as SFC, DISM, system restore or Fresh Start. If all this fails, you have a professional solution to go with that promise full reset and make your system new. Always take care that you keep your system updated. Do not power off the system in a power-cut situation. Don’t delete recovery partitions. Make regular backups to not have this kind of issue in future.