Need to reset your Windows 10 computer to its factory settings? It’s not the most fun task, but sometimes it’s necessary to give your PC a fresh start. Don’t worry, though; we’ve got you covered with a straightforward guide on how to factory reset your Windows 10 computer from boot.
Windows 10 How to Factory Reset from Boot Tutorial
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what a factory reset from boot will do. This process will remove all your personal files, apps, and settings, returning your computer to its original state – just like when it first came out of the box. Ready? Let’s get started.
Step 1: Access the Boot Menu
Turn on your computer and immediately start pressing the F11 key repeatedly until the Choose an Option screen appears.
When you start your computer, it goes through a process called booting. If you press the F11 key (it could be a different key on some PCs) at the right time, you’ll enter the boot menu. This is where you can tell your computer to start the reset process.
Step 2: Troubleshoot
Select Troubleshoot from the Choose an Option screen.
The troubleshoot option is like a toolkit for your computer. It’s where you can find ways to fix problems without affecting your files – or, in this case, wipe everything clean with a reset.
Step 3: Reset this PC
Choose Reset this PC from the Troubleshoot menu.
This is the big red button of the process – “Reset this PC” is the option you’ll pick when you’re ready to wipe everything and start over.
Step 4: Remove Everything
Select Remove everything to start the factory reset process.
“Remove everything” does exactly what it says – it gets rid of all your personal files, apps, and settings. It’s like a clean slate for your computer.
Step 5: Confirm and Reset
Confirm that you want to reset your PC and wait for the process to complete.
This is the point of no return. Once you confirm, your computer will start the reset process. It might take a while, so grab a snack and be patient!
After you complete these steps, your Windows 10 computer will restart, looking and feeling like it did when you first got it. All your personal files and apps will be gone, and the settings will be back to default. It’s a good idea to have a backup of your important files before you start this process, just in case.
Tips for Windows 10 How to Factory Reset from Boot
- Always backup your important files before starting a factory reset.
- Keep your computer plugged into a power source during the reset process.
- If your computer is having trouble booting, a factory reset might be a solution.
- Make sure there are no external devices (USB drives, printers, etc.) connected to your computer during the reset.
- If the F11 key doesn’t work for you, try other keys like F9, F12, or even the Delete key.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my files if I factory reset from boot?
Yes, a factory reset will remove all your personal files, apps, and settings.
How long does a factory reset take?
The time it takes can vary, but it’s usually between 30 minutes to a few hours.
Can I cancel a factory reset once it’s started?
Once you’ve confirmed and started the reset, you can’t cancel it.
Do I need a Windows 10 installation disk to reset from boot?
No, you don’t need an installation disk. The reset can be done entirely from your computer’s built-in recovery options.
What should I do if the factory reset doesn’t work?
If the reset doesn’t work, you might need to contact Microsoft support or a professional technician for help.
Summary
- Access the Boot Menu.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Choose Reset this PC.
- Pick Remove everything.
- Confirm and wait for the reset.
Conclusion
Performing a factory reset on a Windows 10 PC from boot is a useful skill to have, especially when your computer isn’t running as smoothly as it should. Just remember, while it can give your computer a new lease on life, it will also remove all your personal data – so back up everything important before you begin. Follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll have your PC back to its original state in no time. And if you run into any trouble along the way, don’t hesitate to seek out additional resources or professional help. Now, go give your PC that fresh start it deserves with a Windows 10 factory reset from boot!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.