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How to factory reset a Windows 10 computer
We explain step by step how to reset your Windows 10 PC while keeping your files and data safe and secure
If you're getting rid of an old Windows 10 computer, it's important to completely wipe your data so no one else can access it. That's where factory reset comes in.
You might also need to do a factory reset if you want to to reset, restore or reinstall Windows to fix bugs, or to get a speed boost if your PC has been dragging its feet.
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How to factory reset Windows 10
Windows 10 makes it easy to reinstall your operating system. Make sure you back up your files and programs first.
- Click Start > Settings > Update & security > Recovery. Here, you should see various options. Each performs a different type of recovery.
- On the Recovery screen, under 'Reset this PC', click Get started '.
- You will be offered two choices – Keep my files or Remove everything. 'Remove everything' is what you want if you're getting rid of your computer and want to factory reset it first.
Factory reset Windows 10: Remove everything - option 1
Remove everything wipes your PC with a fresh installation of Windows 10. It should speed up your PC, but you’ll have to restore your files and apps afterwards. This means copying files back over from a hard drive or the cloud. In the case of apps or programs, you'll have to reinstall them all over again.
You'll see an extra option called 'Remove files and clean the drive'. This performs additional data-wiping, rather like using data-shredding software such as Eraser. This is the option to go for if you're getting rid of your PC or giving or selling it to someone else.
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Windows 10 'refresh': Keep my files - option 2
Only use this method as a last resort for dealing with operating system errors or frequent crashes.
This process leaves your personal files intact but replaces your system files. It uninstalls your apps and programs, so you’ll need to reinstall them manually once the process is complete.
Choosing this option means you'll need to have the product codes ready to re-enter when you reinstall them. This is particularly important for paid-for software such as Microsoft Office or your antivirus software.
Don't put your data at risk - make sure you protect your PC with Which? recommended best antivirus, which includes the best free software.
Back up your files and programs first
It sounds obvious, but make sure all the files on your computer are backed up before you wipe it. You can either do an automated backup, or manually drag and drop the files you want. Find out the three easy ways to back up important files on your PC.
You can back up to an external hard drive - we reveal the best hard external drives. Alternatively, back up to cloud storage.
You can make automated file backups by clicking Start > Settings > Update & security > Backup.
Be aware that this could take up a lot of space, so make sure you have enough room on whatever you're using for your backup.
Once you're done with your files, don't forget your programs. Be sure that you have the licence keys for any paid-for software that you run. These might be available in the About section of the program's menu or purchase confirmation email you originally used. If it's old software, it could be with the installation disc.
You'll need these licence keys when you reinstall paid-for software on to a new computer.
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Factory reset vs data shredding
A factory reset isn't a guarantee that all the data on your computer will be wiped. But Windows 10 gives you a built-in data-shredding option as you're performing the factory reset.
If you're using an older version of Windows, the data – including your photos and documents – could still be hidden in a format that someone could retrieve if they were using data-recovery software.
In this case, using data-shredding software on a Windows 7 or 8 PC is a smart way to ensure your personal files are gone for good. Perform this process before factory resetting the operating system. It's a pain to do it afterwards, because you have to set up a whole new laptop, simply to wipe it.
Need a new laptop? We'll help you choose the right one for your budget - see our pick of the best laptops
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Join Which? Tech SupportOffer ends 16 Jun 25. Cancel anytime.
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