If you’ve tried to reset your Windows 11 PC and encountered the dreaded message — “There was a problem resetting your PC”, don’t worry. This is a common issue that usually happens due to corrupted system files, damaged recovery images, or missing components needed for the reset process.

In this guide, we’ll explain all possible fixes for this error, including methods using Command Prompt and USB installation media. We’ll also cover similar problems in Windows 10 and related errors like no changes were made or required files are not available.
⚙️ There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC Windows 10
Windows 10 users also experience this same issue. The root causes are generally similar — corrupted recovery partitions, incomplete updates, or damaged system files.
Here are a few quick fixes you can try:
- Run System File Checker (SFC) using:
sfc /scannow - Use DISM tool to restore system health:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Boot into Safe Mode and attempt the reset again.
- Create a Windows 10 installation media and use Repair your computer from the setup menu.
🚫 There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC No Changes Were Made
This variation of the error appears when Windows starts the reset process but fails to complete it, leaving your files and settings unchanged.
To fix this issue:
- Boot your PC in Safe Mode.
- Open Command Prompt (Admin).
- Run these commands one by one:
sfc /scannow DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Restart your computer and try resetting again.
If it still doesn’t work, you may need to use Windows USB installation media, explained below.
💻 How to Fix There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC Windows 11 Command
Using Command Prompt is one of the most effective ways to repair corrupted system files that prevent a reset.
Steps:
- Boot your PC into Advanced Startup Options (press
Shift + Restart). - Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Command Prompt.
- Run these commands sequentially:
bootrec /fixmbr bootrec /fixboot bootrec /scanos bootrec /rebuildbcd - Then run:
sfc /scannow DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - Restart your computer and attempt the reset again.
🧰 How to Fix There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC Windows 11 USB
If Command Prompt doesn’t fix the issue, use a bootable USB installation drive.
Steps:
- Create a Windows 11 installation USB using the Media Creation Tool.
- Boot your PC from the USB drive.
- Select Repair your computer → Troubleshoot → Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything based on your preference.
This process uses a fresh copy of Windows system files, eliminating any corrupted components causing the problem.
🔵 There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC Blue Screen
Sometimes, this error appears along with a blue screen. It indicates deeper system corruption or a faulty drive.
Fixes:
- Boot into Safe Mode with Command Prompt.
- Run diagnostic commands like
chkdsk C: /f /r. - Disconnect any external drives or USB devices before resetting.
- If the error persists, use a Windows USB installer to perform a clean installation.
⚠️ There Was a Problem Resetting Your PC Required Files Are Not Available
This message means that the recovery image or system restore files are missing or corrupted.
Try these fixes:
- Use Command Prompt and execute:
reagentc /info reagentc /enable - If that doesn’t help, recreate the recovery image using:
reagentc /setreimage /path C:\Recovery\WindowsRE reagentc /enable - If you’re unable to fix the recovery partition, reinstall Windows 11 using a USB setup.
🔗 Related Helpful Guides
- Windows 11 setup without internet – Complete guide
- Disable Copilot in Windows 11 (2025 Guide)
- How to disable BitLocker in Windows 11
❓ FAQs
Q1. Why does “There was a problem resetting your PC” occur in Windows 11?
It usually happens due to missing or corrupted system files, recovery image issues, or a failed Windows update.
Q2. Can I fix this error without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, by using Command Prompt commands like SFC, DISM, and Bootrec, you can often repair the issue without a full reinstall.
Q3. What if reset keeps failing even after using Command Prompt?
Try resetting using USB installation media or perform a repair installation.
Q4. Does disabling BitLocker help fix the reset problem?
Yes, sometimes BitLocker encryption interferes with system recovery. You can disable BitLocker in Windows 11 before resetting.
📘 Conclusion
The “There was a problem resetting your PC” error in Windows 11 can be frustrating, but it’s usually repairable with the right tools and commands.
Start with Command Prompt repairs, and if that fails, use a USB installer for a clean setup. Always back up your files before performing resets or reinstallation.