How to Do Windows Server 2016 Factory Reset from Command Prompt

Can I Factory Reset Windows Server 2016 from Command Prompt?

A factory reset is a process that erases all data and settings on a device, returning it to its default settings. This means that the device is reset to the point when it was first taken out of the box. Performing a factory reset helps to fix errors in the operating system, fix issues with software updates, improve your PC's overall performance, etc.

There exist a couple of ways to perform a factory reset for Windows Server 2016. One of these ways involves utilizing the Command Prompt. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about how to perform Windows Server 2016 factory reset via Command Prompt.

Backup Windows Server 2016 Regularly for Disaster Recovery

Since a factory reset wipes out all your data and settings, it is better to back up all the data on your computer. This ensures that you can restore your important programs and data. AOMEI Backupper Server is one of the best software for creating a full backup of your computer before performing a factory reset.

You can use this tool to do system backup, disk backup, partition backup, and file backup. It has the following advantages:

✨ Scheduled backup: You can set up auto backups so that your backup data is always up-to-date.
✨ Incremental/differential backup: It offers three backup methods, incremental, differential, and full backup.
✨ Multiple backup storage paths: It supports you to backup Windows Server to NAS, internal/external hard drive, USB flash drive, network share, cloud, etc.
✨ Quick restore: You can easily restore backup images when needed, and even restore a part of the backup.

Here is how to backup your important files before factory reset Windows Server 2016 (this tool can also run on Server 2025/2022/2019/2012 (R2)/2008 (R2)/2003, etc.):

Step 1. Download and run AOMEI Backupper Server. Navigate to Backup > File Backup.

Step 2. Opt for either Add Folder or Add File to specify the data requiring backup.

Step 3. Access the second bar in the main interface and designate a backup destination.

Step 4. CInitiate the backup process by clicking Start Backup at the lower right corner. When it's complete, click Finish.

Notes:✎...

Options offers you to set email notification, encrypt, compress and split the backup image, etc. based on your needs.

You can set up daily/weekly/monthly/event triggers/USB plug in backups under Schedule Backup.

You can also change the backup method and enable backup cleanup to auto delete backup files that exceed the retention policy in Backup Scheme.

How to Perform Windows Server 2016 Factory Reset from Command Prompt

To do Windows Server 2016 factory reset with CMD, you can rely on the "systemreset" command. This command allows you to reinstall Windows while keeping your files and settings intact. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1. Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.

Step 2. Input the following command and press Enter:

• systemreset

Step 3. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything. If wish to delete all files and settings, click on Remove everything.

Step 4. On the next screen, it will display what resetting will do to your PC. Confirm your choices and proceed by clicking the Reset button. The reset process will begin, restoring your Windows PC to its original settings. Wait patiently until the reset process completes.

🔥Hot: What's new in Windows Server 2025?

Windows Server 2025 was officially released on November 1, 2024, bringing several exciting updates. Here are some of the key highlights:

• Desktop Shell: The first time you sign in, the desktop shell adopts the sleek look and feel of Windows 11, offering a modern and familiar user interface.
• Bluetooth Support: Windows Server 2025 now includes Bluetooth functionality, making it easy to connect and pair devices like mice, keyboards, headsets, and audio devices.
• DTrace Integration: DTrace is now a native tool in Windows Server 2025, providing a powerful command-line utility for real-time system performance monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Email & Accounts: You can now manage Microsoft Entra ID, Microsoft accounts, and Work or School accounts directly in Windows Settings under Accounts > Email & Accounts. However, note that domain joining remains necessary for most configurations.

If you'd like to experience all these wonderful features, you may make a Windows Server 2025 Media Creation Tool to install Server 2025 on a compatible device.

Frequently Asked Questions about Factory Resetting Windows Server 2016

#1. Does factory reset delete everything on PC?

Essentially, a factory reset will delete almost everything on your device, including personal data, settings, apps, accounts, and more. But this depends on the reset option you choose during the factory reset process.

#2. Does factory reset remove viruses?

Letting Windows Server 2016 reset to factory default can be an effective way to remove viruses from a device as it wipes out all data and settings, including any viruses or malware that may be present on the device.

However, it is important to note that a factory reset may not eradicate all types of malware and viruses. Persistent viruses, deeply embedded in the firmware or operating system, may endure even after a device has been reset to factory settings. In such cases, seeking professional assistance becomes imperative.

#3. Can I factory reset Windows Server 2016 without losing my data?

Yes, you can perform a full backup for your computer before factory reset, so that you can restore the backup image after it. In this way, you can reset PC without losing data. Or, you can choose the "Keep my files" option during the reset process to retain personal data.

#4. Will factory resetting Windows Server 2016 impact installed applications?

Yes, it's recommended to reinstall applications after the reset to ensure proper functionality.

#5. Is there a way to revert from a factory reset if something goes wrong?

No, factory resetting is irreversible, so ensure all necessary preparations are made beforehand.

Concluding Words

If you are looking for how to perform Windows Server 2016 factory reset using Command Prompt, a step-by-step guide is covered on this page. For your data security, you could use the professional server backup software, AOMEI Backupper Server, to back up your system, hard drive, or important files/folders before reset.