Windows 10: fresh start vs. reset pc

What is the difference between a fresh start and resetting the PC? My PC has Windows 11 installed, is freezing too much for the last few days and disturbing my regular workflow. Should I reset the PC or give it a fresh start? Every related info is appreciated.

:)

 

Fresh Start - Problem resetting your PC. No changes were made.

Hello,

Since yesterday, I've attempted to run a Fresh Start, but the process stops refreshing at 35% and then undoes changes and gives me the message "Reset This PC - There was a problem resetting your PC. No changes were made.

Here is what led me to the Fresh Start process and the outcomes:

• I began this process when Firefox crashed without allowing me to open, so I uninstalled Firefox.
• Then received multiple messages from Security and Maintenance to scan drive, then repair drive.
• Then realized that Word would not open (WINWORD.EXE - The application was unable to start correctly (0xC0000142).
• Attempted to reinstall Office 365, but received Couldn't Stream Office Error Code: 30045-25(1), so uninstalled Office.
• Tried Fresh Start again, but no joy - same uninformative message.
• Decided to attempt to download Windows 10 from Media Creation Tool
  • 1st attempt with Media Creation Tool: I used the to USB option, that led to error 0x0004005 - 0xA001A, and it made my USB unrecognizable to Windows (Then I remembered why I hate the tool)
    • Used Rufus to reformat my USB -> Windows recognized the USB
  • 2nd attempt with Media Creation Tool, but downloaded ISO file to PC. Used Rufus for the ISO, then began the install process. All went well until... Your PC will restart in a few minutes... Restart .... Installing Windows (your PC will restart several
    times)... scanning and repairing drive C: got to 44%, then Restart, then attempting to re... Restart ... Restoring previous version of Windows.

Now what? I am still unable to install Firefox, cannot install Office, and need to perform a clean install of Windows 10, but I've read that I can no longer get ISO without going through Media Creation Tool.

Btw, I am running Windows Home Version 1709 (OS Build 16299.19) via Windows Update.

Any suggestions?

Thank you!

 

Windows is not activated following "reset this pc"

Thank you @NavyLCDR, I tried your suggestions but still have the same issue.
@Superfly, My main issue is the fact that sppsvc.exe won't start and throws the Error 5 (Access Denied). I tried changing permissions, taking ownership etc. but still have the same issue.

I guess my next step is another restore :-(. I assume you mean a fresh install because the original issue was caused after I clicked "Reset this PC" option in system settings?

 

Fresh Install or Reset PC?

When you select Recovery option the Reset PC it gives the option to 'Remove Everything' so Is a Fresh Install the same as using the Reset Pc function?
There is also an Advanced startup option.

I want to start completely fresh and do a clean install but really not sure which option i should use.