To restore the computer to its original or default settings, most computers have a system restore disc or a built-in restore process on the hard drive (factory reset). A computer’s ability to reset, format, or restore it can help you fix problems with your computer’s software, such as corrupted program files or virus infections. The following are instructions on how to restore your computer’s original software.
Warning!
Restoring your computer erases all the information on the hard drive and makes it like new. Once the steps below are completed, you cannot restore any lost data. Back up any files you do not want to lose before proceeding with the restore process.
*If you have an OEM computer (e.g., Acer, ASUS, Dell, or HP), you likely have a hidden system recovery partition and don’t need a disc to restore your computer.
Windows 10
Follow these instructions to erase or uninstall and reinstall Windows 10.
- Press the Windows key, type Settings, and then press Enter.
- In the Settings window, select the Update & security option.
- Select the Recovery (A) option in the left navigation pane, and then click the Get started button (B).
- Choose the Keep my files or Remove everything option, depending on if you want to preserve your files or delete everything and start over.
- Follow the prompts to begin the recovery process. Once the process completes, Windows is reset.