N
Glam Journal

Is Windows 10 fresh start worth it?

Author

Matthew Shields

Updated on March 20, 2026

Is Windows 10 fresh start worth it?

Basically, the Fresh start feature helps to start fresh with a clean and up-to-date installation of Windows 10, but it can leave your data intact. In other words, this will keep your personal files, some Windows settings, and remove most of your apps.

What does a Windows fresh start do?

Windows 10’s May 2020 Update moves the “Fresh Start” feature that lets you reinstall Windows while removing any manufacturer-installed bloatware on your laptop or desktop PC. It’s no longer part of the Windows Security application. You’ll find Fresh Start built into Windows 10’s “Reset Your PC” feature.

How do I do a fresh start on Windows 10?

Start Fresh in Windows 10

  1. Click or tap the Start icon, the Settings icon, and Update & Security.
  2. At the bottom, click the link under More Recovery Options to go to the Start Fresh website (which may change from time to time).
  3. Download the Start Fresh tool and run it by double-clicking it.

Does Fresh Start remove viruses?

Important: Resetting your PC (or using Fresh Start) will remove most of your apps, including Microsoft Office, third-party anti-virus software, and desktop apps that came pre-installed on your device. You will not be able to recover removed apps, and will need to manually reinstall these apps.

Does Windows fresh start speed up computer?

Whether you’re running Windows or MacOS, it seems like the longer you run a system, the slower it gets. Fresh Start is a great way to clean up the mess of your Windows 10 installation, however, and well worth a try to speed up your PC, whether it’s 18mo old or six years old.

Does Windows fresh start delete files?

The Fresh Start feature basically performs a clean install of Windows 10 while leaving your data intact. More specifically, when you choose Fresh Start, it will find and back up all your data, settings, and native apps. Chances are, most of the applications installed on your system will be removed.

Does Windows 10 Fresh Start remove drivers?

Fresh Start removes everything including OEM bundled software and hardware drivers.

How long does it take to do a Windows fresh start?

Fresh Start can take 20 minutes or longer to complete depending on your device.

Does Windows 10 Fresh Start remove malware?

While it is possible to get rid of the malware, the effort and technical experience needed may not be plausible for some users. If you find yourself in this kind of situation, perhaps a reinstall is the best option. Wiping the hard drive and reinstalling a fresh copy of Windows will get rid of the problem for sure.

How long does a Windows fresh start take?

Will fresh start remove my photos?

The Fresh Start feature basically performs a clean install of Windows 10 while leaving your data intact. More specifically, when you choose Fresh Start, it will find and back up all your data, settings, and native apps. You will now have to reinstall any applications you regularly use.