A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Factory Reset Windows 10

Cybersecurity by Salman Mir on November 5, 2021 add comment 941 Views 7 min read

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If your Windows 10 is not working properly or you want to pass it to another user, performing a factory reset may be a viable solution. A factory reset can resolve many issues, like crashes, glitches, and slow performance, and help remove malware or unwanted software. You must also note that factory reset will erase all installed applications, system settings, personal files, and user accounts.

It’s like giving your PC a fresh start, making it the ideal approach if you are planning to sell it. But if you are keeping it, backing up all your data before factory resetting Windows 10 is essential. In this guide, you will learn different and effective ways to factory reset Windows 10.

What is a Factory Reset?

A factory reset comes with multiple processes to help you restore your PC to its original condition. When it’s done correctly, a factory reset tends to transform your PC to the same condition at the time of purchase. Doing this will remove all the programs, apps, files, and settings and restore the programs installed by the manufacturer that have been removed previously.

In Windows 10, you can find the option to factory reset while keeping your data. But for a perfect factory reset, it’s important to clean up the entire PC by removing everything.

What to do before Factory Reset Windows 10?

Before performing a factory reset on Windows 10, make sure to do the following things:

Data backup – files you want to keep including documents, photos, videos, and music.
Copy these documents to a USB, external storage drive, or any cloud storage.
Deauthorize – Some applications like iTunes, media players, or Adobe software may require users to reauthorize the PC before factory reset to prevent issues with license limits or reactivation.
Uninstalling the unwanted programs to free up the space and to make the resetting process go quickly.
Make note of your product key.

How to Factory Reset Windows 10

There are two methods to perform factory reset on Windows 10:

Using the Setting App
Using the BIOS

Factory Reset Windows 10 using Setting App Method

To most users, this is the easiest way to factory reset a Windows 10:

Go to Settings by clicking on the Start button.
In the Setting app, go to Update & Security.
On the left side, click on Recovery.
Click on Get Started written right under Reset this PC.
For a factory reset, choose Remove Everything and then click Next.
Once you click Reset, it will start the factory reset process.

Factory Reset Windows 10 using BIOS

This method may be complicated to many users, but it’s an alternative to resetting a PC using the Setting app. Follow these steps to factory reset a PC using the BIOS:

Restart the PC first.
When you see the BIOS screen upon restarting, keep pressing the F2 or Delete button which will take you to the BIOS settings.
In the BIOS, use the arrow keys to command the Boot menu.
Select Reset to Defaults, and then press Enter.
It will restart your PC and begin the process of factory reset.

How do I reset my computer if I forgot my password?

Are you trying to sign in to your PC but can’t because you have forgotten your password? Don’t worry because you can still perform the factory reset!

You need to follow these steps carefully to factory reset your PC without a password.

Restart the PC, while it is in the login process, press and hold the SHIFT key.
Release the SHIFT key once the “Please wait” screen appears.
When the “Choose an option” screen appears, click “Troubleshoot” options.
Select the “Reset this PC” option.
A new screen will appear in which you have to either choose the “Keep my files” option which will remove apps and settings but save personal files, or “Remove everything” to delete all the apps, files, and settings.
You will now have to choose how to reinstall Windows. It can be done by downloading the installation files from the cloud or downloading from the current Windows files.
Once the “Reset this PC” window appears, you must click “Fully clean the drive” if you are looking for a clean slate, or click “Just remove my files” if you are going to use it.
Now, click the “Reset” button to begin the resetting process.

Advantages of Factory Resetting Windows 10

Performing a factory reset on Windows 10 provides several benefits, especially if your PC is running slowly, experiencing persistent errors, or showing signs of malware. Here are the key benefits of factory resetting Windows 10:

1. Fix System Issues and Errors

Resolve Software Problems: If you’re experiencing frequent crashes, app failures, or system instability, resetting Windows 10 can help by clearing out corrupted system files and settings.
Remove Malware: Malware or unwanted software can cause your system to slow down or behave erratically. A reset removes most forms of malware (especially if you choose to perform a full reset that wipes everything).

2. Improve Performance

Fresh Start: Over time, your computer may accumulate unnecessary files, apps, and settings that slow it down. A reset removes bloatware and old files, giving your system a fresh start.
Clear Registry Errors: Resetting can clear out corrupt or problematic registry entries that may cause slowdowns or instability.

3. Free Up Disk Space

Remove Unwanted Programs and Files: A reset gives you the option to remove all apps, files, and settings, allowing you to reclaim disk space that may have been consumed by unused programs or leftover files from previous installations.
Customizable Reset Options: You can choose whether to keep personal files or erase everything, giving you flexibility in terms of how much space you want to free up.

Conclusion

Factory reset Windows 10 can be an effective way to resolve system issues, improve performance, and start fresh, but it’s also important to back up your data and carefully choose the reset option that best suits your needs. Moreover, consider whether you want to keep your personal data or perform a complete reset, and be prepared to reconfigure settings and reinstall apps afterward for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a factory reset and a hard reset?

A hard reset forces your device to restart if it’s running into some kind of problem. Factory reset on the other hand, is more permanent and involves removing everything on your device and bringing it back to the original state – like when the device was freshly manufactured.

When should I factory reset?

Many conditions demand a factory reset, for example, if your system is having privacy issues, viruses, or software bugs that are slowing your device down. For most users, a factory reset is the last resort after they have done everything they could to prevent system exhaustion.

Does factory reset remove viruses?

A factory reset is meant to remove everything on your computer, which also means viruses.

Is it safe to reset the BIOS?

Resetting the BIOS settings to default may cause a few problems, like losing optimized settings, boot order issues, disabled features, and security settings reset.