A factory reset can help restore your Windows 10 operating system to its original state, which may be useful if you want to sell your computer or need to delete your user data. It will not delete any programs that you have installed on your computer, however, so make sure you back up important files and folders before proceeding with this process. Use the information below to learn how to force a factory reset on Windows 10. (As with all repair processes, use these steps at your own risk.)
Reasons to Reset
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It’s possible your device has become unresponsive or frozen, making it difficult to use. You can also choose to restore your device to its factory settings if you are selling or giving away your PC and don’t want other people accessing any of your information. It may be necessary if you believe that malware is installed on your PC. For these reasons, it’s important for you to learn how to perform a factory reset.
What if I have files and settings saved on an external drive or cloud storage?
It’s important to remember that data stored in external storage, such as an external hard drive or flash drive, is not affected by a reset. You will have access to your data after performing one of these procedures. If you have files stored in cloud storage, they may be lost during a reset. We recommend backing up your files and settings prior to performing any of these procedures.
My device is frozen!
If your computer, laptop, or tablet is frozen, first try a simple reboot. If that doesn’t fix it, consider performing an orderly shutdown using one of these methods Press and hold down Ctrl + Alt + Delete (Windows key + power button), then click Shut down; press and hold down Ctrl + Shift + Esc (Windows key + power button), then click Restart; or open Settings > Update & security > Recovery, then click Restart now. The latter two options will keep any files you have saved intact.
What if my computer isn’t booting up at all?
If your computer is still unresponsive, try these steps: First, remove any peripherals and cables from your PC. This includes USB cables, headphones and external hard drives. Then press and hold down your PC’s power button for 15 seconds. Your machine should turn off. Once it has shut down, use only one finger to press and hold down your computer’s power button again (you’ll only need to do it for 15 seconds).
What else should I know about performing a factory reset in Windows 10?
To start with, there are two ways of forcing a system restore in Windows 10. The first is via Settings and second one is using System Restore feature. If you want more information about each way, we will help you learn how to do that below. So without any further ado let’s get started!
Tips for Preventing Factory Resets in the Future
When you consider that your data is crucial, and there’s a chance of it being lost in such an abrupt manner, you might be tempted to stop using your PC entirely. But if you love technology, there are several steps you can take to avoid problems like these in the future. If one machine doesn’t work out for some reason or another, consider setting up your OS on external storage (like an SD card) and leaving your original hard drive intact.
How do I force my computer to factory reset? How to force a factory reset on Windows 10
The instructions for forcing a factory reset vary depending on which operating system you are using. The first step is finding out which version of Windows you have installed, so head over to Settings > System > About.
How do you factory reset a computer that won’t Reset?
When you can’t get your computer to perform a normal Reset, try performing a hard Reset, also known as force-restarting or forcing your PC into Recovery Mode. In most cases, you can access Recovery Mode by holding down three keyboard buttons simultaneously: Power, Volume Up and Volume Down.
Can you force a laptop to factory reset?
Usually when someone asks how to do something like force a laptop to factory reset, they’re talking about getting their computer back into original, out-of-the-box condition. If you use your laptop regularly (and you’re not planning on selling it), there’s probably no reason for a full system restore. However, if your computer is plagued with software problems or viruses, you may be better off restoring it. The following instructions apply only if you have a laptop.
How do I factory reset Windows 10 without booting?
If you want to quickly wipe your PC’s drive and return it to its original state, there are several ways of doing so. If you want to restore your system but don’t want (or can’t) go through regular setup again, there is an alternative way of performing a factory reset. Here we show you how.
How do you master Reset a computer?
There are two ways to perform a Reset. One way is through Settings, and one way is through Recovery (which requires an external drive or Windows installation disc). You can find both options in Update & Security. Regardless of which route you choose, there are some things you’ll want to do before you begin. A factory Reset does not remove your files; it just reinstalls Windows with default settings.
Can you Reset Windows 10 from BIOS?
Yes. To do so, you will need to access your computer’s firmware interface (commonly referred to as BIOS). This is usually done by hitting one of your computer’s function keys (like F2) right after powering on, or during post. In order for you to enter BIOS mode, you’ll need either physical access (meaning you’re physically at the computer), or remote access from another device.