To start this procedure in Windows 10, go to the Start Menu and click on “Settings.”Ĭlick “Get Started.” To restore Windows 10 to its default settings but keep files such as documents and photos, but not applications, click “Keep My Files.” This enables you to restore factory condition through Windows.

Most computers have a separate partition on the hard drive specifically for resetting and recovering the operating system. Disconnect all external accessories, such as printers, hard drives or scanners, before you start to avoid possible problems during the reset. Gather the third-party programs you want to reinstall after the reset so you have them ready. Take time before starting the process to save all your files, photos and other information to an external hard drive or other media. Once you reformat your drive, you cannot recover any data. The process completely rewrites your hard drive, erasing everything stored on it. Although the reset procedure is automated through Windows, you must take a few precautions before giving the final command.

How to erase computer hard drive