return computer to factory settings windows 10

Windows 10 should be running much better, and you can start reinstalling apps and getting things set up how you like. These are the same onscreen instructions you go through when upgrading Windows 10.

Everything is automatic except the initial setup, i.e., entering a Microsoft account or naming the computer.

Now your PC will restart several times, and after it’s done scrubbing the drive, Windows 10 will be reinstalled. This is your last chance to back out if you have any doubts. The next screen will show you what resetting the PC will remove. Microsoft will give you a warning letting you know that you can’t undo the process. But if you’re resetting your PC, this is a great option. However, for a PC with an HDD, I would feel safer using a proven secure method… DBANs Boot and Nuke to scrub the drive clean before recycling it. Microsoft says this is a good option if you’re selling your PC. Or remove the files and clean the drive - this option is the closest to doing a clean install with an ISO image. You can remove your personal files, which is faster but less secure. The process will start and will only take a few seconds.

And some computers will give you the option to restore your PC to factory settings. Note that whichever option you pick, you’ll still need to reinstall all of your apps and desktop programs and reconfigure your settings. Then you will have two options: Keep your files or remove everything - settings, files, apps. Then click the Get started button under the Reset this PC section. To get started, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. With Windows 10, it’s just Window Reset with a guided menu to walk you through the steps. Previously they separated the feature into Windows Refresh vs. Windows 8.1 has the same feature however, I like how Microsoft improved it with Windows 10.

Return computer to factory settings windows 10