Description: This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about Windows 10 Refresh and Windows 10 Reset from Summer 2019.

Q: What is the difference between a reset and a refresh of Windows 10?
A: A reset will remove all files and programs from the operating system installation disk. A refresh will only remove all programs from the operating system installation disk - a refresh is intended to leave the user folders containing data intact, however it is always a good thing to have a backup prior to beginning.

Q: How can I tell which option is a refresh and which option is a reset?
A: In the Windows settings, select update & security. Choose recovery on the left. Under reset this PC, choose the Get started button. There are two options given: Keep my Files or Remove Everything. Keep my Files is the refresh option while Remove Everything is the reset option.

Q: Will all o my Office documents be deleted?
A: Any created documents are set up as personal files. Those files should not be affected when doing a refresh. If a reset is being done, personal data will be deleted. Either way, we recommend backing up your data using an external device or cloud storage before proceeding.

Q: When is it best to do a refresh?
A: Refresh is a good option when you notice or suspect malware activity on the system. . If everything seems slow and you cannot figure out why, a refresh can be used to clear up some background files and speed up the computer performance.

Q: When is it best to do a reset?
A: Reset is best if you are giving away or selling your computer and want to be sure all of your data is off of it. If your system is crashing and a refresh did not work, a reset can be used to create a clean install of Windows and clear up any potential software and driver issues.

Q: How long does a refresh or a reset typically take?
A: A refresh is typically shorter, possibly a 30 minute to 45 minute process depending on various factors. A reset is typically longer, it could last 1 or more hours to process depending on various factors.

Q: Will I still have my user account accessible after a refresh or reset?
A: You will only have your account after a refresh. Once the refresh is complete, Windows will take you back to the log in screen to sign in. This is not true for a reset. Windows will walk you through the initial setup process almost like it was when it was a new computer. In this process, you will have to set the use account back up.

Q: Can I view what programs where removed after a refresh?
A: Yes. Once the refresh is done and you have signed into the account, there will be an HTML file called Removed Apps that is located on the desktop. Open this file in your browser and it will show the names of all of the programs that were on the computer before the refresh.

Q: Can I view what programs were removed after a reset?
A: Unfortunately not. Once a reset is done that information is gone. The only way to get programs is to remember what you had and reinstall the programs.

Q: How do I start a Windows refresh?
A: Open Windows Settings and then select Update & Security. On the left side select Recovery. On the recovery screen select Reset this PC and then select Get started. When prompted, select Keep my files.

Q: How do I start a Windows reset?
A: Open Windows Settings and then select Update & Security. On the left side select Recovery. On the recovery screen select Reset this PC and then select Get started. When prompted, select Remove everything.