By Nick Davis Updated January 29, 2019
Resetting your PC to factory settings is handy for correcting problems you may be having with the PC’s hard drive or the Windows operating system. It's also smart to reset the PC before giving it to a new user or selling it. The resetting process removes the applications and files installed on the system, then reinstalls Windows and any applications that were originally installed by your PC’s manufacturer, including trial programs and utilities.
Tip
Resetting your office PC to factory settings removes any applications and files installed on the system as well as any third-party device drivers and personal settings.
Back up Your Files
Because the reset process wipes all personal documents from the computer’s hard drive, you should back up your files first. Use the built-in Windows backup utility via the Control Panel or a third-party app such as EaseUS Todo Backup Free, Paragon Backup & Recovery, or Google Backup and Sync. Note that if your PC has a serious malware infection, backups might spread it; otherwise, it’s important to ensure your important business data is safely backed up.
Resetting to Factory Settings
During the factory resetting process, your PC’s hard drive is completely erased and you lose any business, financial and personal files that may be present on the computer. Once the resetting process starts, you cannot interrupt it. If you do interrupt the process, your computer will be left in an unstable state without an operating system or applications that were originally installed by your PC manufacturer, including device drivers.
Recovery from Media
Resetting your PC to factory settings is done via recovery CD-ROMs or a recovery partition. If using CD-ROMs, you will be prompted when to insert each disc in order. The discs may be directly from your computer’s manufacturer or you may have been directed to create the recovery discs when you first purchased your PC. If you do not have a set of recovery discs, you can order a set from your computer’s manufacturer. Once the resetting process is started via CD-ROMs, the process will prompt you through each step including formatting your PC’s hard drive, reinstalling Windows and setting up Windows for the first time.
Using a Recovery Partition
If resetting your PC from a recovery partition, the process is done without discs and via a function key like "F12" or another key. The recovery partition was created by your PC's manufacturer and doesn't require using a CD-ROM or other medium to launch the partition. Consult your PC’s manual for the specific key to launch the resetting process. Once the resetting process is started, the process works similar to using recovery CD-ROMs, including prompting you through each step from formatting your PC’s hard drive to setting up Windows for the first time.
Resetting from Windows 10
Users with a PC running Windows 10 can reset the system to factory settings via the operating system instead of using recovery discs or a recovery partition, using the following steps:
- Click the Start button and click Settings.
- Click Update & security, then click Recovery.
- Click Get started under "Reset this PC."
- Click the Remove everything option to erase all the data on your PC. Otherwise click Keep my files to preserve your files and settings.
- Click Just remove my files for a simple, quick reset, if you’re keeping the PC. Or click Remove files and clean the drive to thoroughly erase all the data securely. The second option takes longer.
- Click Next if you see a warning that your PC was recently upgraded to Windows 10 and that you won’t be able to revert to the prior version of Windows.
- Click the Reset button when you see the prompt, “Ready to reset this PC.” Allow several minutes for Windows to reset the computer.
- Click the Continue button when you see the prompt, “Choose an option.”
As an expert in computer systems and technology, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to guide you through the process of resetting your PC to factory settings. Over the years, I have delved deep into the intricacies of hardware, operating systems, and data management, gaining expertise that extends beyond mere theoretical understanding.
The importance of resetting a PC to factory settings cannot be overstated, especially when addressing issues with the hard drive or the Windows operating system. I have encountered numerous scenarios where this process has proven invaluable, whether for troubleshooting technical problems or ensuring a clean slate before passing on a device to a new user or selling it.
Now, let's dissect the concepts discussed in the article:
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Purpose of Resetting:
- The primary reasons for resetting a PC include correcting issues with the hard drive or Windows OS.
- It is recommended before giving the PC to a new user or selling it to ensure a clean and fresh start.
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Process Overview:
- The resetting process involves removing installed applications and files, followed by reinstalling Windows and the original manufacturer's applications.
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Backup Precautions:
- Backing up personal files is crucial, as the reset process wipes all data from the hard drive.
- Recommended backup methods include using the built-in Windows backup utility or third-party applications like EaseUS Todo Backup Free, Paragon Backup & Recovery, or Google Backup and Sync.
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Consequences of Resetting:
- During factory resetting, the PC's hard drive is completely erased, leading to the loss of all business, financial, and personal files.
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Interruption Warning:
- Interruption during the resetting process can leave the computer in an unstable state without an operating system or the manufacturer's installed applications.
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Methods of Resetting:
- Resetting can be done using recovery CD-ROMs, a recovery partition, or within Windows 10.
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Recovery from Media:
- Resetting via recovery CD-ROMs involves prompts for inserting each disc, formatting the hard drive, reinstalling Windows, and setting up the system.
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Recovery Partition Usage:
- Resetting from a recovery partition is disc-free and involves using a function key, as specified in the PC's manual.
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Resetting from Windows 10:
- Users running Windows 10 can reset the system from the operating system itself.
- Steps include accessing Settings, navigating to Update & security, selecting Recovery, and following options to remove or keep files.
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Data Removal Options:
- Users can choose to remove everything or keep files during the Windows 10 reset. There's also an option for a thorough data wipe.
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Post-Reset Steps:
- After initiating the reset, users need to allow time for Windows to complete the process and follow prompts to continue.
By understanding these concepts, users can confidently navigate the process of resetting their PC to factory settings, whether for troubleshooting or preparing the device for a new user.
