To use what is sometimes called a “cloud rebuild” in Windows 11, run Reset this PC and select Cloud download. First choose whether to keep personal files or remove everything, back up important data, and locate the BitLocker recovery key if the PC is encrypted. Keep the device connected to power and the internet throughout recovery.
What Cloud download does
Microsoft’s Windows 11 setting is named Cloud download; it is an option within Reset this PC, not a separate feature called Cloud rebuild. It downloads a fresh copy of Windows. Microsoft says the option “downloads a fresh copy of Windows from the cloud, ensuring you get the latest version with all updates.” See Microsoft’s Reset your PC instructions.
Resetting also removes apps and settings. Whether personal files remain depends on the separate choice you make during setup.
Before you start
- Back up files you cannot afford to lose, even if you plan to select Keep my files.
- If the PC is encrypted, make sure you can access its BitLocker recovery key.
- Have a working internet connection and connect the PC to power before starting.
How to use Cloud download
- Open Start > Settings > System > Recovery.
- Under Recovery options, select Reset PC.
- Choose Keep my files or Remove everything according to what should happen to personal files.
- Select Cloud download.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Leave the PC connected to power and the internet while recovery runs.
The screen may remain black for an extended period, and the PC may restart during the process. Do not manually restart it: Microsoft warns that doing so can cause the reset to fail.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Choose what to keep
| Choice | Personal files | Apps and settings | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keep my files | Keeps personal files | Removes apps and settings | When you want to reinstall Windows without removing your personal files. Back up first. |
| Remove everything | Removes personal files | Removes apps and settings | For a clean start or when preparing to give away or sell the PC. |
Cloud download or Local reinstall?
Both choices are available within Reset this PC; they differ in where Windows setup files come from.
| Option | How it gets Windows | Practical consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud download | Downloads a fresh copy from the cloud | Useful when local Windows files are corrupted or missing; requires an internet connection. |
| Local reinstall | Uses files already on the PC | May be faster on a slow internet connection, but may not include the latest updates. |
Your choice between Keep my files and Remove everything is separate from the choice between Cloud download and Local reinstall.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How Cloud download differs from Windows Update repair
Fix problems using Windows Update is a different Windows 11 repair path. It reinstalls the current version of Windows while preserving personal files, apps, and settings, and is intended particularly for problems related to Windows Update. It is not the Cloud download option inside Reset this PC. Microsoft’s Recovery options in Windows guidance notes that the repair option may be unavailable on work- or school-managed PCs and requires qualifying Windows 11 updates.
For that repair reinstall, Microsoft instructs users to keep the PC connected to power and the internet throughout the process. If the option is available and you want to preserve apps and settings, it is less disruptive than resetting the PC.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
If Windows will not start or Reset this PC is unavailable
If built-in recovery cannot be used, Microsoft documents creating Windows installation media on another working PC and reinstalling Windows from a bootable USB drive. This is a fallback, not a step in the normal Cloud download process. A clean installation from installation media removes personal files, apps, manufacturer customizations, and settings, so back up anything recoverable first. Follow Microsoft’s instructions to reinstall Windows with installation media.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
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.
