returning windows 10 to factory settings

You can decide what to reinstall from scratch.Īlso, Windows 10 stores all old data in the “Windows.old” folder, so you always have that option to extract data from there if needed. Then, click on “ Reset” in the next window.Īfter the reset is complete, you’ll see one or more HTML files on your Desktop, listing all deleted applications.Then, you’ll be presented with the settings for reset.If you choose the “ Remove everything” option, you’ll then need to choose “ Cloud download” or “ Local reinstall” if you have Windows May 2020 Update or later.Then, the next screen will give you the option to view the list of apps that will get erased.Now, you’ll next see the settings for what the reset will do.The local option uses existing installation data from your device. For Windows with May 2020 Update or later, you’ll get two choices to reinstall Windows 10: “ Cloud download” and “ Local reinstall.” The cloud option reinstalls Windows 10 with the latest version. If you decide to use the “ Keep my files” option above, you’ll then see a new window.Now, you’ll have two options: (1) “ Keep my files“, (2) “ Remove everything.” The first choice will keep your personal files and is suitable for generally refreshing settings and removing installed apps.For restoring your PC, you’ll want to select “Reset this PC.” Recovery will bring up a new page with additional options.

From the “ Update & Security” menu, select “ Recovery” on the left-side of the screen.Then, select “Update & Security.” Alternatively, type “ Reset” without quotes into the “ Cortana search box.“.Start by clicking on “Start Menu -> Settings.”.

Here are the steps to reset your Windows 10 device.

If that process doesn’t work (most likely won’t), you’ll need to perform a clean install/upgrade using the newer license and software. If that scenario applies to you, try to switch the license in the Settings menu. It is important to note that the reset option may use the original OEM license if you upgraded your version of Windows 10, such as from Home to Pro.

Returning windows 10 to factory settings