Resetting Windows 10 to factory settings can help resolve system issues or prepare the PC for resale. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Before You Start
- Back Up Your Data: Resetting will erase most or all files on the computer. Save important documents, photos, and files to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Note Your Login Information: Ensure you have login credentials for accounts and saved software.
- Charge or Connect to Power: Ensure the device is plugged in to avoid interruptions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reset Windows 10
1. Open the Settings Menu
- Click the Start menu (Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
- Select Settings (gear icon).
2. Access the Reset Option
- In the Settings menu, go to Update & Security.
- Click on Recovery in the left sidebar.
3. Begin the Reset Process
- Under the Reset this PC section, click Get started.
4. Choose an Option
You’ll be presented with two options:
- Keep my files: This resets Windows while preserving your personal files. It removes apps and settings but keeps documents, photos, and other personal data.
- Remove everything: This removes all files, apps, and settings, restoring the PC to its original state.
5. Choose Reset Method
Depending on the option selected:
- Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft servers.
- Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows using the files already on your PC.
6. Confirm and Start Reset
- Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm your choice.
- You may see a summary of what will happen during the reset.
- Click Next and then Reset to begin the process.
7. Wait for the Process to Complete
- The reset process may take 20 minutes to several hours, depending on your system and options chosen.
- The PC will restart several times.
8. Set Up Windows
- After the reset, follow the on-screen instructions to set up Windows, including choosing your region, language, and signing in with a Microsoft account (optional).
Important Notes
- If you’re resetting for troubleshooting, try Keep my files first.
- For selling or giving away the PC, choose Remove everything to ensure your data is securely erased.
- If your system is severely damaged, you may need a USB recovery drive.
Would you like details on creating a recovery drive or troubleshooting errors during the reset? Let me know!
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