How to Factory Reset Windows 10: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you grappling with persistent software issues, battling malware infections, or simply wondering how to factory reset Windows 10 with DriverSupport? In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of resetting your Windows 10 PC to its original state, covering technical troubles, resale preparations, and starting fresh with DriverSupport.Give DriverSupport | ONE a try today!

Why Factory Reset Windows 10?

Before we delve into the specifics, let’s explore why you might opt for a factory reset on your Windows 10 computer:

Performing a factory reset on your Windows 10 computer serves various purposes. It can resolve persistent software problems, such as frequent crashes and freezing, that defy other solutions, offering a clean slate to eradicate the root causes of these issues. Additionally, if your system is heavily infested with malware, viruses, or other malicious software, a factory reset ensures the complete removal of these threats, leaving you with a clean and secure system. Furthermore, if you plan to sell or give away your computer, a factory reset is essential to safeguard your personal data and provide the new owner with a fresh, functional system. These reasons highlight the versatility and importance of knowing how to perform a factory reset on your Windows 10 device.

Now that you understand why a factory reset might be necessary, let’s delve into the practical steps.

Preparing for Factory Reset

How to Factory Reset Windows 10 Steps

Follow these detailed steps to execute a factory reset on your Windows 10 computer:

1. Access Settings: Click the Start button and then the gear-shaped Settings icon to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Update & Security: In the Settings window, select “Update & Security.”
3. Choose Recovery: On the left sidebar, click on “Recovery.”
4. Initiate Reset: Under the “Reset this PC” section, click the “Get started” button.
5. Select Reset Option: You’ll encounter two options:
   • Keep my files: This option removes apps and settings but preserves your personal files.
   • Remove everything: This option wipes all your personal files, apps, and settings.

   Choose the option aligning with your requirements. For a complete reset, such as for resale, select “Remove everything.”

6. Choose Data Removal Method: If you opted for “Remove everything” in the previous step, you’ll face another choice:
   • Just remove my files: This is faster but less secure, as it doesn’t thoroughly erase your data.
   • Remove files and clean the drive: This method offers enhanced security, ensuring your data is nearly impossible to recover.

   Select the method that aligns with your privacy and security preferences.

7. Confirm Reset: Click the “Reset” button to affirm your selection. Your computer will restart, and the reset process will commence.
8. Be Patient: The reset process may take some time, so exercise patience and refrain from turning off your computer during this phase. Your PC will restart multiple times.
9. Set Up Windows 10: Once the reset concludes successfully, you’ll be guided through the initial Windows 10 setup, enabling you to configure your preferences and sign in with your Microsoft account.

Post-Reset Steps

After successfully completing the factory reset, these are the vital post-reset actions:

1. Reinstall Applications: Reinstall the necessary applications and software from official sources or using installation media.
2. Restore Data: Retrieve your backed-up data from external storage or cloud storage and reintegrate it into your computer.
3. Configure Settings: Customize your settings, preferences, and security options to align with your preferences.

Alternatives to Factory Reset

While a factory reset serves as a potent tool for resolving various issues, it’s not always the initial or sole choice. Consider these alternatives before committing to a factory reset for your Windows 10 computer:

1. Leverage System Restore: Utilize the built-in System Restore feature to roll your system back to a previous state without affecting personal files.
2. Engage Troubleshooting Tools: Windows 10 offers a range of troubleshooting tools to address common issues without necessitating a full reset.
3. Reset Individual Apps: If a particular app is causing problems, you can reset or reinstall it independently, without impacting the entire system.