How to Restore Your Windows 10 Computer to Factory Settings: A Comprehensive Guide

Restoring your Windows 10 computer to its factory settings can be a straightforward process when done correctly. This guide will walk you through two methods to reset your Windows 10 computer to its original state, whether you want to remove just your personal files or all data, including apps and settings. Additionally, it will cover the steps to use a recovery drive if you have previously created one. Follow this guide to regain the pristine state of your Windows 10 computer.

Method 1: Using Windows Settings

Restoring your Windows 10 computer to factory settings can help resolve issues or prepare the device for a new user. Here’s how you can do it using the built-in Windows Settings.

1. Backup Your Data

Before proceeding, it is crucial to back up any important files as the process will erase all data on your system. Ensure you have a secure backup method in place to prevent data loss.

2. Open Settings

n - Click on the Start menu. n - Select the Settings gear icon.

3. Go to Update Security

n - In the Settings window, click on Update Security.

4. Select Recovery

n - In the left sidebar, click on Recovery.

5. Reset This PC

n - Under the Get started button, select Reset This PC.

6. Choose an Option

You will see two options:

n - Keep my files: This option removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files. n - Remove everything: This option removes all personal files, apps, and settings. Choose this if you want a complete factory reset.

7. Follow the Prompts

If you selected Reset,
n - After making your selections, click Reset. Your computer will restart, and the reset process will begin. This may take some time.

Method 2: Using a Recovery Drive if Available

If you created a recovery drive previously, you can use it to restore your PC:

1. Insert the Recovery Drive

Plug in the USB recovery drive.

2. Boot from the Recovery Drive

Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. You may need to change the boot order in BIOS/UEFI settings.

3. Choose Troubleshoot

Once booted, select Troubleshoot.

4. Select Reset This PC

Select Reset this PC and follow the prompts as described in Method 1.

Final Steps

After the reset is complete, your computer will boot up as if it were brand new. You will need to go through the initial setup process to complete the restoration.

If you encounter any issues during this process, please provide more details, and I can help troubleshoot further!

In BIOS reset to default. As for the OS, that depends on which one. If it has a recovery system, it will do a clean install. Otherwise, you will need to do a clean install yourself.