How to run a factory reset on your Windows 10 computer.
Windows 10 includes a feature called Reset This PC. Manufacturers generally use Reset This PC as their default factory reset.
So if your computer isn’t running properly and you’d like to start over with a fresh copy of Windows, reset it.
What Does A Factory Reset Do?
Reset This PC will remove everything from your computer (including the current Windows installation) and then it will reinstall Windows.
Before the reset begins you’ll have the option to save your personal files and folders. If you choose to do so, then they’ll be moved out of the way during the reset. Then returned to the folders they were originally located in.
Programs and apps that you may have installed since you got the computer will be removed. There’s no option to keep installed programs.
How To Reset A Windows 10 PC.
Click on the Start button and type “reset this pc“. Click Reset This PC (system settings) in the search results.
That’ll open the Windows 10 recovery screen. Click on the get Started button.
Keep Your Files Or Remove Everything?
Resetting Windows 10 will reinstall the operating system.
During the process your personal files and folders can be saved and re-instated or removed.
Click either “Keep my files” or “Remove everything”.
How Would You Like To Re-Install Windows 10?
After choosing whether or not to keep your files you’ll be asked how you’d like to reinstall Windows.
You can either download a fresh copy over the Internet from Microsoft or use the Windows 10 image that’s already on your computer.
As a general rule of thumb, I’d suggest opting for the second option, the Local Reinstall.
It’ll be quicker than waiting for Windows 10 to download and there’s less to go wrong.
Pre-installed Software And Drivers.
Using the Local Reinstall option should also preserve the computer manufacturers software and drivers that came pre-installed on your system.
If you opt for the Cloud Download, any programs or apps that came with your computer could be deleted.
All in all, the Local reinstall is the safest option.
Ready To Reset This PC.
When the Ready To Reset This PC screen appears, take note of what it’s going to do. This is your last chance to change your mind.
Click the Reset button to continue.
It May Take Some Time.
Resetting Windows 10 isn’t a quick fix. There’s a lot to do. Be patient and let your computer get on with the job.
If you’re resetting a laptop, be sure that it’s plugged into the wall socket and receiving power. This is not the time for your battery to go dead.
Eventually, after several restarts, you’ll see the familiar Windows 10 login screen appear.
Sign in and check that all your files and folders are in place.
Removed Apps.
During the reset, Windows 10 will have removed (deleted) any apps and programs that you’ve installed.
You’ll see a new icon on your desktop – Removed Apps. Double left click on it to view exactly which programs were removed.
Summary.
Before you go ahead and reset Windows 10, make a backup. Create a full system backup of your PC. Things do go wrong. So back everything up.
Another thing to consider is that resetting is more or less a last resort. If your computer isn’t working properly, you could try running some of Windows repair tools first.
