Need to perform a reset of my PC, but settings won't open and the latest update hasn't fixed Recovery Mode

Anonymous
2025-10-23T19:53:15.98+00:00

Fallen victim to malware, and can no longer open settings as it comes up with "This file doesn't have an app associated with it for performing this action" in order to update my Windows to the latest version in order to fix the Recovery mode issue. I've tried manually installing the latest update, and it didn't work as when I went to recovery mode I still couldn't move my mouse and keyboard.

Additional Problems:

Taskbar not showing (restarting Explorer didn't work)

Search.exe not loading (cannot force it to load in services)

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Performance and system failures
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  1. John DeV 153.5K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-23T20:26:42.9333333+00:00

    Hi, good day!

    The best thing to do in this situation is to perform a Clean Install of Windows 11. However, you will need to find another working Windows computer from a family member or friend near you to create the Windows 11 USB Installation media.

    Find another working computer then download the Media Creation tool (Click Download tool now). Use the tool to "Create installation media (USB flash drive at least 8GB in size) to install Windows 11". Instructions inside the link.

    Note: Please make sure to uncheck the "Use the recommended options for this PC" box. Please check the link below for more details.

    https://support.microsoft.com/windows/create-installation-media-for-windows-99a58364-8c02-206f-aa6f-40c3b507420d

    If you want to retrieve your important files, Insert the USB Installation media into your computer. Please change the boot order in the Bios Settings. Boot your PC from the Installation Media you created.

    Click Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Command prompt

    Type: notepad.exe

    Press Enter

    Click File, then Open

    This will open a Mini-Explorer that you can use to find folders or individual files that need to backup, right click the files to Send to USB flash drive.

    Kindly refer to the link below on How to Perform a Clean Install for more details.

    https://support.microsoft.com/windows/reinstall-windows-with-the-installation-media-d8369486-3e33-7d9c-dccc-859e2b022fc7

    I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

    1 person found this answer helpful.

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