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How to Reset PC to Factory Settings​? To Make It New

  author
Written By Mohit Jha
Anuraag Singh
Approved By Anuraag Singh  
Published On December 10th, 2024
Reading Time 4 Minutes Reading

Overview: If your computer is not functioning properly or running slow, then you might be wanting to know how to factory reset PC. Factory resetting can fix your software issue, improve performance, or make it ready for resale purposes. It restores the device to its original settings and erases all your personal data. So, this blog will take you through the reasons, and provide various manual methods for successful reset. For detailed steps, you can refer to this guide on how to factory reset Asus laptop.

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Why You Need to Do a Factory Reset? Reasons to Decide

There are several reasons which can make you eager to know how to factory reset PC. Read the below points:

  • It can fix your performance issues or  system errors efficiently.
  • Also, removes malware or any unwanted programs.
  • Prepares the computer for sale or donation purposes.
  • By factory resetting, you can start your PC fresh with a clean Windows installation.

How to Factory Reset PC Using Manual Solutions

You can reset your computer to keep your files or restore it to factory settings. Choose the steps given below for resetting your PC on Windows 11/10 based on your needs and operating system. For Mac users, you can check how to factory reset MacBook Pro for a detailed guide.

 #1. Factory Reset PC on Windows 10

Factory resetting your Windows 10 PC can overall enhance your performance issues or give you a fresh start. Use the “Reset this PC” feature to restore your system to its original state by removing apps and resetting settings.

Step 1. Firstly, open the start menu and go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.

Step 2. Under Reset this PC, click Get Started.

click get started
Step 3. Next, you have to choose Keep my files to save personal files or Remove everything to wipe the laptop.

choose Keep my files or Remove everything

Step 4. Then, select Cloud Download or Local Reinstall.

Step 5. Now, follow the given instructions to confirm. The system will restart and reset your PC.

select Cloud Download or Local Reinstall

 #2. Factory Reset PC on Windows 11

If you are factory resetting your PC on Windows 11, then it is easy to improve your system performance or start fresh. You can keep your files or remove everything to restore default settings.

Step 1.  Open the start menu and go to Settings > System > Recovery.

Step 2. Click on Reset this PC.

Step 3. Then, choose Remove everything (deletes all files, apps, and settings) or Keep my files (resets apps and settings but keeps your files).

Step 4. Now, follow the given steps to complete the reset process to start your system from scratch.

#3. Factory Reset Windows 11 and 10 From Boot 

Factory resetting Windows from boot restores your system to its original state which is perfect for troubleshooting or wiping personal data. Use the recovery menu at startup to begin the reset process.

Factory Reset Windows 10 or 11 From Boot Using Windows Recovery Environment

The factory reset can be done on Windows 11 and 10 through boot, in case your OS does not work or become inaccessible. You will then need to follow these steps to get into Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to start your resetting process.

Step 1. Force shut down your computer three times as the Windows logo appears. This will trigger WinRE.

Step 2. Next, if you load a USB recovery drive, insert it and boot from it via BIOS/UEFI (usually F12 or Esc).

Step 3. In the setup screen, choose your country and click “Next” and select “Repair your computer“.

Step 4. Under WinRE, go to Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.

Step 5. You have to choose:

  • Keep my files (reinstalls Windows, keeps personal files)
  • Remove everything (deletes all files, apps, and settings)

Step 6. If you select Remove everything, you need to choose which drives are to be reset (Windows drive or all drives).

Step 7. Confirm and initiate the resetting process.

Step 8. Your PC will now restart after the reset and guide you to set up Windows 10 and Windows 11 afterwards.

How to Permanently Delete Everything on Your Windows 11/10

Firstly, It does not wipe your entire data out of the system when trying to do a factory reset PC. As it leaves some data behind and that can be recovered by using recovery tools. So, you can use professional software like SysTools Complete Data Wiping Software for complete and permanent data deletion. It will permanently wipe your data and leaves no chance of data recovery.

Follow These Simple Steps to Delete Data Permanently – Professional Tool


Step 1. Go to the start menu to open SysTools Data Wipe by right clicking.

tool main screen

Step 2. Click on “Add File” or “Add Folder” as needed.

select file or folder

Step 3. Select the folder to wipe and click Next to scan.

click on next

Step 4. Choose a Data wiping method.

choose a data wiping method

Step 5. Click Wipe to start the process.

press on wipe button

Step 6. Now, view the wiped file/folder details on the screen.

wiping report

Conclusion

So, we have shared all the manual methods on how to factory reset PC. But, following manual steps can leave some data behind which can comprise your data privacy. To avoid this, you can go with our automated tool which is also mentioned in the blog. Choose these methods according to your need and always remember to back up your data before resetting your PC.

  author

By Mohit Jha

Mohit is a Microsoft Certified expert known for his cloud migration, cyber security, and digital forensics expertise. He specializes in Microsoft 365, Exchange Server, and Azure AD migration, ensuring seamless transitions for organizations worldwide. His multifaceted role as a meticulous tech writer, diligent researcher, and astute editor underscores his commitment to delivering cutting-edge digital forensics and cloud migration strategies.