Reset PC Archives

Winsage

September 17, 2025

How to open the Settings app on Windows 11

The Settings app in Windows 11 allows users to customize their operating system experience, including personalizing the interface, managing peripherals, configuring network settings, and controlling privacy options. It can be accessed through various methods such as the Start menu, Taskbar, Desktop, Start button, File Explorer, Quick Settings, and shortcuts. To set a default printer, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select the printer, and click "Set as default." If the option is unavailable, disable "Let Windows manage my default printer." To install Windows 11 offline, press "Shift + F10" during setup to open Command Prompt, enter OOBEBYPASSNRO, and restart to create a local account without internet. If there are issues accessing the Settings app, repairing the installation may help. To adjust power and sleep settings, navigate to Settings > System > Power & battery. To reset to factory settings, go to Settings > System > Recovery, and under "Reset this PC," choose to "Keep my files" or "Remove everything." To set a default browser, access Settings > Apps > Default apps, select the browser, and click "Set as default." To create Virtual Desktops, use "Windows key + Tab" and select "New desktop," switching between them with "Windows key + Ctrl + Left or Right" arrow keys.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Your PC’s Windows install needs spring cleaning too. Here’s how to do it

- Regular maintenance of a PC is essential, especially during seasonal changes. - Uninstall unnecessary programs by accessing the Windows 11 Start menu, reviewing installed applications, and selecting Uninstall. - Specialized uninstall tools like Revo Uninstaller or Iobit Uninstaller can help remove leftover files and registry entries after standard uninstallation. - Unused Windows apps and features can be removed using Powershell commands or the freeware version of CCleaner. - Windows has a built-in cleaning service called "Storage Sense" that can be activated in Settings > System > Storage to manage unnecessary files automatically. - The Disk Cleanup tool can be accessed by typing cleanmgr in the search field to target temporary files and the recycle bin. - Software like Duplicate Photos Fixer Pro can help find and delete duplicate photos in large collections. - To reset Windows 11, navigate to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset PC, with an option to keep existing files or perform a complete reinstall.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

When these 9 problems happen, I know it’s to reinstall Windows 11

Users of Windows 11 may experience performance issues that indicate a need for reinstallation. Key indicators include: 1. Significant performance drops due to accumulated applications, storage issues, or malware. 2. Frequent crashes and freezes that persist despite troubleshooting. 3. Regular system errors suggesting instability. 4. Corrupted system files identified by tools like System File Checker (SFC) or DISM. 5. New hardware installations that require a clean installation for optimal compatibility. 6. Startup issues that do not improve with disabling startup programs. 7. Malware infections that may necessitate a complete reinstallation. 8. System instability after major changes like new drivers or modifications. 9. Failed troubleshooting attempts that consume more time than productive use of the system. Reinstallation methods include: - Using Windows Update to reinstall while preserving files, settings, and applications. - Resetting the PC to keep files while removing apps and settings. - Removing everything for a clean installation, requiring restoration of files and reinstallation of applications. For severe issues, creating a bootable USB may be necessary.

Winsage

September 25, 2024

How to securely wipe a Windows PC

The "Reset PC" feature in Windows allows users to reinstall the operating system easily. Users can choose between two options: "Remove everything," which deletes all data, and "Keep my files," which retains personal data while troubleshooting issues. The process can be done via "Local reinstall" to save bandwidth or "Cloud download" if issues arise. It's important to click the "Change settings" link to ensure a complete data wipe. On modern PCs with solid-state drives, the reset process is generally quick.