The Settings app in Windows functions as a central hub for customizing your OS. Here, you can perform any customization you want, such as changing the system settings, managing user accounts, enhancing your privacy, linking your phone with a PC, changing language, time, network, and internet settings, and even updating your OS or fool-proofing its security.

At times, it may be necessary to roll back all the changes you've made in the Settings app to give your system a fresh start. You can do that by resetting the Settings app in a few simple steps.

When and How Is Resetting the Settings App Useful?

Any time you run into a hardware or software issue that won't go away after applying every available fix, a reset of the Settings app can be the last resort.

All customizations you've made in the app so far will be removed, and your device's settings will be restored to the defaults. Your preferences and your login information will also be completely erased.

Even so, if nothing else is working, it holds good chances of resolving your current issue. However, it does come with a price.

How to Reset the Settings App in Windows 10

To reset the Settings app in Windows 10, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the Windows search bar.
  2. Type Settings.
  3. Left-click on the Settings app icon in the search preview and navigate to App settings.
    App Settings of Settings App in Windows 10
  4. Scroll down and locate the Reset option.
    Resetting Settings App in Windows 10
  5. In the warning pop-up, hit Reset.
    Final Warning for Resetting Settings App in Windows 10

RELATED: Here's What's New in the Windows 11 Settings App

Reset Your Settings App to Default

Here's how to reset the Settings app as a last resort to resolve Windows OS issues. However, you should be mindful of the risks involved before doing so.

Looking for other ways to get into the Settings app? You can do that using keyboard shortcuts, the quick access menu, task manager, and many other ways. Thus, if you have trouble accessing the Windows search bar, you can still access the Settings app.