Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Yes—you can reinstall Windows 11 from WinRE without a USB drive. The feature is called Reset this PC, and its online reinstall option is Cloud download. Enter WinRE, choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC, select whether to keep or remove personal files, then choose Cloud download. Back up important files and have your BitLocker recovery key ready if encryption is enabled.
What “Cloud Rebuild” means in Windows
“Cloud Rebuild” is not the label used in Microsoft’s consumer support instructions. In Windows, the process is Reset this PC; Cloud download is the option that gets Windows recovery content online. The reset can be started from the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), so this built-in route does not require bootable USB media. See Microsoft’s Reset your PC guidance.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Password Reset Disk for Windows 7, 8.1, 10, 11, Windows Password Recovery USB, Password Reset Tool | $21.90 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Lexar A30E USB 3.2 Gen 1 Flash Drive 128GB 2-Pack | $39.99 | Buy on Amazon |
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Before you reset
- Back up important files. Keep my files retains personal files but removes apps and settings. Remove everything removes personal files, apps, and settings. Keeping files is not a substitute for a backup.
- Find your BitLocker recovery key if device encryption or BitLocker is enabled. Microsoft says you may need the key to complete a reset from WinRE.
- Plan for internet access. Cloud download needs a usable network connection in recovery.
- Connect the PC to power if practical. The display may stay black for an extended period during a reset. Microsoft warns that manually restarting during the process can cause it to fail.
Enter WinRE without a USB drive
If Windows still starts
Open Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup, then select Restart now. Or hold Shift while selecting Power > Restart. These routes open the recovery menus without external boot media. Microsoft’s Windows Recovery Environment instructions describe these access options.
Recommended Free Tools
If Windows will not start
After repeated startup failures, Windows may open Automatic Repair. Select Advanced options to reach WinRE. Treat deliberately interrupting startup as a fallback, not the first choice; use the device manufacturer’s instructions if its recovery controls differ. Some PCs provide a manufacturer-configured recovery key or button.
#1 Best Overall
- FOR FULL INSTRUCTION PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION
- Step 1: Boot from the USB Flash Drive - Insert the USB flash drive into an available USB port on your computer. - Turn on your computer or restart it if it’s already on. - As the computer starts, press the key that opens the boot menu. This key varies by manufacturer and model, but it’s often F2, F10, Esc, or Delete. - In the BIOS/UEFI setup menu, locate the Boot Options or Boot Order section. - Use the arrow keys to select your USB drive and move it to the top of the boot priority list. - Save your changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI setup. Your computer will now boot from the USB flash drive.
- After that its will take few minutes to reset Windows login password
- Package includes instruction how to use "Password reset USB" software
Run Reset this PC with Cloud download
- Enter WinRE using one of the built-in routes above.
- Select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything based on the data outcome you want.
- Select Cloud download.
- Review the choices shown on screen and follow the prompts to start the reset.
- Let the reset complete. The PC may restart itself, and the screen may remain black for a while; do not force a restart during the process.
Microsoft’s reset page contains an apparent navigation typo in one WinRE instruction line that mentions “System Restore” after Reset this PC. Follow the visible Windows labels for the reset flow above; Reset this PC is the route that offers Keep my files, Remove everything, and the download-source choice.
Cloud download or Local reinstall?
| Option | Where Windows recovery content comes from | When it may fit |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud download | A fresh copy downloaded from Microsoft’s cloud | Useful when local recovery files are corrupted or missing; requires a usable internet connection. |
| Local reinstall | Files already on the PC | Can be faster with a slow internet connection, but may not include the latest updates. |
These options choose the source for Windows recovery content. They do not change the separate Keep my files or Remove everything choice.
Get WinRE online if Cloud download cannot connect
Microsoft lists Ethernet, saved Wi-Fi networks, and manually connecting to certain Wi-Fi networks as possible ways to get online in WinRE. Availability depends on the recovery environment and device. Microsoft’s Windows Recovery Environment page notes that reuse of saved Wi-Fi networks is currently available only within the Windows Insider Program; workplace or school policies may also restrict network access.
Rank #2
- Lightweight and convenient: Lexar JumpDrive A30E (USB Type-A) boasts a slim, portable design for easy device compatibility; lightweight at 7.41 g
- Transfer speeds up to 100 MB/s: 10x faster than standard USB 2.0 drives; Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions
- Wide compatibility: Compatible with tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required; Reliably stores photos, videos & files
- Compact: Features a push-button retractor and a lanyard loop for on-the-go use
- Enhanced security: Lexar DataShield protects files, easily creates a password-protected safe with auto-encryption; Files deleted from the safe are securely erased and can't be recovered
- If the PC has a usable Ethernet connection, try connecting it to a network with internet access.
- If you rely on Wi-Fi, check whether the network appears in WinRE and whether you can connect there.
- If the device is managed by an employer or school, contact IT if recovery networking or reset choices are restricted.
An Ethernet cable is optional, not a guaranteed fix: the PC needs a compatible port or adapter, and the network and recovery configuration must allow access.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose the right recovery route
| Your situation | Route | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Windows starts, and you want to repair system files while preserving apps, files, and settings | Fix problems using Windows Update in Settings, when available | Reinstalls the same Windows version and repairs system files and components while preserving apps, files, and settings. It is not the WinRE Reset this PC flow. See Microsoft’s reinstall-current-version instructions. |
| Windows will not start, or you want a more substantial reinstall | Reset this PC from WinRE | Reinstalls Windows and offers Keep my files or Remove everything. |
| Reset fails or recovery components are unavailable | Recovery media or Windows installation media | These are fallback routes and may require USB or DVD. Manufacturer recovery media may include hardware-specific drivers and factory applications. See Microsoft’s Windows recovery options. |
Reset is more disruptive than less invasive repair choices. If the PC is managed by work or school and the available recovery options do not resolve the problem, Microsoft’s recovery guidance directs you to your IT department.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
