On Windows 11, if the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA) isn’t working correctly or want to start from scratch again, you can reset the experience to fix problems without re-downloading anything.
You can perform this action in two ways. You can use the repair option to reset the subsystem keeping your settings and apps. Or you can use the reset option that deletes all the apps and settings and reinstall WSA to its original state.
If you only need to reset the changes made on the Windows Subsystem for Android settings page, you don’t need to completely repair or reset the platform. You only need to reset the app’s settings.
This guide will teach you the steps to reset the Android subsystem for Windows 11.
Reset WSA settings to defaults deleting data
To reset the WSA platform on Windows 11, use these steps:
-
Open Settings on Windows 11.
-
Click on Apps.
-
Click the Installed apps tab.
Quick note: If you still have version 21H2, the page will be labeled “Apps & features.” -
Select the “Windows Subsystem for Android” item.
-
Click the menu (three-dotted) button on the right side and select Advanced options.
-
(Optional) Under the “Reset” section, click the Repair button to reset the subsystem without deleting the apps or data.
-
Click the Repair button again.
-
Click the Reset button to reset WSA to the default settings deleting settings, data, and apps.
-
Click the Reset button again.
Once you complete the steps, the subsystem for Android will reset to the factory default settings fixing the most common issues. However, if you are using the “Reset” button, you will need to reinstall all the mobile apps and reconfigure any custom settings.
Reset WSA settings to defaults without deleting data
To reset the Windows Subsystem for Android settings, but without deleting apps or data, use these steps:
-
Open Start.
-
Search for Windows Subsystem for Android and click the top result to open the app.
-
Click on System.
-
Click the Reset button for the “Reset to defaults” setting.
After you complete the steps, the platform settings will revert to the default selections, fixing common problems.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].