Resetting a laptop can help to solve various issues such as slow performance, frequent crashes, and errors. This process can also be useful if you’re planning to sell or give away your laptop. In this article, we’ll discuss how to reset laptops, step by step.
Before starting the reset process, it’s important to back up all important files, such as documents, pictures, and videos. You can use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or any other storage device to create a backup of your data. Once you have backed up your data, you can proceed with the reset process.
There are two methods to reset a laptop: using the built-in reset feature or using installation media.
Method 1: Using the Built-In Reset Feature
The built-in reset feature is available on Windows 10, 8, and 7. This method will erase all the data on the laptop, so make sure to back up all the important files before proceeding. Here are the steps to reset a laptop using the built-in reset feature:
Step 1: Click on the “Start” button in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
Step 2: Click on the “Settings” icon (the gear-shaped icon).
Step 3: Click on “Update & Security.”
Step 4: Click on “Recovery.”
Step 5: Click on “Get started” under the “Reset this PC” section.
Step 6: Choose whether to keep your files or remove everything.
If you choose to keep your files, Windows will remove all installed apps and settings but will keep your personal files.
If you choose to remove everything, Windows will remove all files, settings, and apps, including the operating system.
Step 7: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.
Method 2: Using Installation Media
If you don’t have access to the built-in reset feature, you can use installation media to reset your laptop. You’ll need a USB flash drive or a DVD with a Windows installation file to perform this method. Here are the steps to reset a laptop using installation media:
Step 1: Insert the USB flash drive or DVD into your laptop.
Step 2: Restart your laptop.
Step 3: Press the appropriate key to enter the boot menu. The key may vary depending on the laptop’s manufacturer. Common keys include F2, F10, F12, and Del.
Step 4: Choose the option to boot from the USB flash drive or DVD.
Step 5: Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows.
Step 6: When you reach the “Where do you want to install Windows?” screen, select the hard drive you want to reset.
Step 7: Click on “Drive options (advanced).”
Step 8: Click on “Delete” to remove all partitions on the hard drive.
Step 9: Click on “New” to create a new partition.
Step 10: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
Conclusion
Resetting a laptop can help to solve various issues, but it should be done with caution. Back up all important files before proceeding, and choose the reset method that’s appropriate for your laptop’s operating system. With the above steps, you can reset your laptop and start fresh.
Author Bio
I am Zoya Arya, and I have been working as Content Writer at Rananjay Exports for past 2 years. My expertise lies in researching and writing both technical and fashion content. I have written multiple articles on Gemstone Jewelry like Monstone Ring and other stones over the past years and would love to explore more on the same in future. I hope my work keeps mesmerizing you and helps you in the future.
