Resetting a desktop PC (2024)

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Resetting the device addresses a number of key scenarios:

  • A user may want to reset a device to transfer it to another owner.
  • The device belongs to an organization, and the organization wants to reset the device. For example, when an employee leaves the organization.
  • The device has malfunctioned and the user wants to reset the device.
  • An OEM has completed factory testing and wants to reset the device (optionally preserving preloaded map data).

ImportantWhen you reset a device, it does not return it to the original factory state. For example, any packages that were added or modified during an update remain. To return the device to the original factory state, you must flash it with the original factory image.

Ways to reset a desktop PC

If Settings is accessible:

  1. Click Settings > Update & security > Recovery > under Reset this PC, click Get started.

  2. Select either Keep my files to repair the PC, or Remove everything to prepare the PC for a new user.

    NoteIf the device is not responsive, try restarting it first.

If Settings is not accessible:

  1. Click the power button, then hold down Shift while choosing Restart. This opens the recovery menu. This works even if you're not logged into Windows.

  2. Click Troubleshoot.

  3. Select either Refresh your PC to repair the PC, or Reset your PC to prepare the PC for another user.

For PCs, there isn't a built-in way to reset a device remotely. However, you can install third-party tools that allow you to do this.

Resetting a desktop PC (2024)

FAQs

Is it a good idea to factory reset your PC? ›

Conclusion. An annual reset of your Windows PC offers numerous benefits, from digital decluttering and troubleshooting to improved performance. By regularly resetting your PC, you ensure that your system runs smoothly and is free of unnecessary clutter.

Does resetting a PC solve problems? ›

Reinstalling the operating system can restore your system to its original configuration and help you fix many software issues on your device, such as slow system performance or malware infections.

What will happen if I reset my desktop computer? ›

A factory reset deletes all user data and reverts back to the factory-installed software. A system restore reinstalls the operating system but does not affect user data. This is a safe way to resolve software issues without losing important files. A hard reset means rebooting a device.

Can I reset my PC without losing everything? ›

Resetting your PC lets you perform a clean reinstallation and update of Windows while keeping your personal data and most Windows settings intact. In some cases, a clean installation may improve your device's performance, security, browsing experience, and battery life.

What are the disadvantages of resetting PC? ›

Data loss: A factory reset's major drawback is that it erases all of the data on the device, including all contacts, messages, photographs, videos, and other sensitive information that might have been saved there.

Does resetting PC delete everything? ›

A factory reset may fix recurring glitches or crashes, boost a sluggish system, and help remove malware and unwanted software from your PC. But keep in mind that a factory reset will also wipe out your applications, settings and preferences, personal files, and accounts.

Will my PC run better if I reset it? ›

A soft reset will close all open applications and clear data left over in your PC's random access memory, which will help your computer perform better.

What do you lose when you reset your PC? ›

User accounts, files, settings, ASUS pre-installed software, and Windows Store applications will be deleted. This option is designed for users who want to start completely fresh with their device, as it will remove everything and reset the Windows operating system.

How long does it take to factory reset a PC? ›

The length of time it takes to perform a factory reset can vary depending on the size of your hard drive and other factors like processing speed. Generally speaking, most resets should take between 30 minutes and an hour.

Do you have to reinstall Windows after factory reset? ›

You do not have to reinstall your operating system if you reset your computer to factory settings. Resetting your computer to factory settings is handy for correcting problems with the PC's hard drive or the Windows OS. It is also smart to reset the computer if you want to give it to a new user or sell it.

Does resetting a PC remove passwords? ›

Reset device will permanently delete your data, programs, softwares and settings. Resetting your PC allows you to choose a new password.

Is resetting PC enough to sell it? ›

Reinstalling your system before sale is a much safer alternative.” While a factory reset is generally sufficient, a determined hacker could, at least theoretically, use advanced data recovery software to retrieve your old files.

Is resetting my PC a good idea? ›

By resetting your operating system to its original state, you can get rid of pretty much all viruses and other malware. Alternatively, you can reset Windows to get a fresh start without any extra programs or files, improving performance and reclaiming drive space. Make sure you back up everything.

Does resetting a PC fix problems? ›

From fixing corrupt drivers on Windows to resolving malware infections, both System Restore and Windows Reset can easily solve all the major Windows issues.

Does resetting PC deactivate Windows? ›

No, a reset will just reinstall a fresh copy of Windows 10.

Will my PC run better if I factory reset it? ›

If you're encountering software or configuration issues affecting your Windows computer's performance that you cannot solve, you might need to perform a factory reset. Performing a factory reset on your PC will remove all personal files and reinstall Windows.

What happens if you factory reset your PC too much? ›

As far as the hardware goes, it will not make any difference and can not do any damage. A factory reset will remove any applications you have installed, so any that you want to use again will need to be re-installed.

Is it good enough to do a factory reset? ›

Basic file deletion and factory reset are not enough

A lot of people perform a factory reset to wipe everything off their Android device, before disposing or reselling it. But the problem is that a factory reset doesn't really delete everything.

What should I save before factory reset PC? ›

Before factory resetting your PC, make sure you:
  1. Back up any files you want to keep – documents, photos, music, and videos.
  2. You can copy these to an external storage drive, a cloud storage service, or a USB flash drive.
  3. Go through your installed programs and make a note of those you'll want to reinstall.

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