How to Reset Computer to Factory Settings Windows 10 | Geekify

Over time, a computer can start to feel slow, unresponsive, or full of unnecessary files. Sometimes, the best solution is to give it a fresh start by resetting it to factory settings. If you are using Windows 10, you’re in luck—Microsoft has made the reset process much simpler than it used to be. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to reset computer to factory settings Windows 10. From understanding what “factory settings” really means, to preparing your files before the reset, to following the step-by-step process—we’ll cover it all in a simple and familiar way.

Whether your PC is slow, filled with errors, or you just want to start fresh, this guide will make the process clear and stress-free.

 

What Does "Factory Settings" Mean in Windows 10?

When you buy a new computer, it comes with the original settings and software installed by the manufacturer. This is what we call factory settings.

Resetting your computer to factory settings means returning it to the same condition it was in when you first took it out of the box. All personal files, apps, and settings you added later will be removed, and the system will go back to its original clean state.

In Windows 10, this process doesn’t require a CD or USB installation disc. You can reset your PC directly from the system itself, which makes it much easier.

 

Key points to remember about factory settings:

• It removes apps and programs you installed after buying the computer.

• It deletes personal files (unless you choose the "Keep my files" option).

• It reinstalls Windows 10 in a clean state.

• It helps fix performance problems, malware infections, or corrupted system files.

So, when you reset to factory settings, you’re basically giving your computer a brand-new start.

 

Things to Do Before Resetting Your Computer

Before you reset your Windows 10 computer, it’s very important to take some preparation steps. Resetting is like giving your PC a new life, but it can also erase data, apps, and settings that you may still need. If you don’t prepare properly, you might lose valuable files or face difficulties reinstalling software. Let’s go through the things you should do before starting the reset process.

 

A. Back Up Your Files

The first and most important step is to back up your files. Resetting may delete your personal data, so you should copy documents, photos, music, and videos to a safe location. You can use an external hard drive, a USB flash drive, or cloud storage services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox. This ensures that even if something goes wrong during the reset, your memories and important work remain safe.

 

B. Save Your Software Keys and Licenses

If you use paid software such as Microsoft Office or Photoshop, make sure you have the license keys or login details saved. Without them, you may not be able to reinstall and use these programs after resetting.

 

C. Check Your Internet Connection

After resetting, your computer will likely need to download updates and drivers. A stable internet connection ensures this process goes smoothly and quickly.

 

D. Disconnect Extra Devices

Remove any devices like printers, scanners, or external drives. This prevents errors during the reset and avoids confusion for the system.

 

E. Note Down Your Settings

If you use special network settings, Wi-Fi passwords, or system preferences, write them down. After the reset, you’ll need to set everything up again.

By following these steps, you’ll make sure your reset process is safe, smooth, and stress-free.

 

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Reset Computer to Factory Settings Windows 10

Resetting your Windows 10 computer may sound complicated, but Microsoft has made the process very simple. If you carefully follow these steps, you can reset your PC in just a few clicks. Here’s a more detailed walkthrough:

 

Step 1: Open Settings

Click the “Start Menu” in the bottom-left corner of your screen, then choose the “Settings” icon, which looks like a small gear. This will open the main control panel for your computer.

 

Step 2: Go to Update & Security

Inside the Settings window, scroll down and click “Update & Security”. From the left-hand menu, select “Recovery”. This is where all reset and recovery options are located.

 

Step 3: Choose Reset this PC

In the Recovery section, you will see “Reset this PC” with the option to “Get Started”. Click this button to begin the reset process.

 

Step 4: Pick an Option

Windows will give you two choices:

1. Keep my files – Good if you want to fix problems but still keep personal files like photos and documents.

2. Remove everything – Best if you want a completely fresh start or if you are selling your computer.

 

Step 5: Follow the Prompts

Windows will explain what will be removed. Read carefully, then click “Next”.

 

Step 6: Reset

Click “Reset” to confirm. Your PC will restart several times while reinstalling Windows.

Once finished, your computer will feel brand new, just like when you first bought it.

 

Different Reset Options in Windows 10

When you reset your Windows 10 computer, Microsoft gives you more than one way to do it. This flexibility helps you choose the option that fits your situation best. Understanding these choices is important so you don’t lose anything important by mistake.

 

A. Keep My Files

This option is designed for people who want a clean system but don’t want to lose their personal files like photos, documents, or music. Windows will remove all apps and programs you installed after buying the computer, along with system settings, but your files in folders such as ‘Documents’, ‘Pictures’, and ‘Desktop’ will remain.

Choose this if your PC is running slow, has errors, or is affected by minor issues, but you still want to keep your personal data safe.

 

B. Remove Everything

This option deletes everything—your files, apps, and settings. It’s like starting over completely. It’s the best choice if you are giving away, selling, or recycling your PC, or if your computer has serious malware problems that you don’t want to risk keeping.

Remember: always back up your files before choosing this option.

 

C. Cloud Download vs Local Reinstall

When resetting, Windows also asks whether you want to reinstall using “Cloud Download” or “Local Reinstall”:

• Cloud Download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows 10 directly from Microsoft. It’s useful if your system files are damaged but requires internet and more data.

• Local Reinstall: Uses the files already on your PC to reinstall Windows. It’s quicker and doesn’t use internet but may not work well if your system is corrupted.

By understanding these options, you can make the best choice for your situation.

 

FAQs

Q1: Will resetting my Windows 10 computer delete all my files?

If you choose Keep my files, your data remains safe. If you choose Remove everything, all files will be erased.

 

Q2: How long does the reset process take?

It usually takes 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on your PC speed and the option selected.

 

Q3: Do I need internet to reset my computer?

No, unless you choose Cloud Download, which requires a stable internet connection.

 

Q4: Will Windows 10 stay activated after resetting?

Yes, Windows 10 automatically reactivates once your device connects to the internet.

 

Q5: Can resetting remove viruses or malware?

Yes, resetting removes most viruses, especially if you select Remove everything.

 

Q6: What’s the difference between Keep my files and Remove everything?

“Keep my files” saves personal data but removes apps and settings. “Remove everything” deletes all files, apps, and settings.

 

Q7: Will I lose Microsoft Office and other apps after reset?

Yes, apps you installed will be removed. You’ll need to reinstall them afterward.

 

Q8: Can I cancel a reset once it starts?

No, once the reset process begins, you must let it finish. Stopping it may damage your system.

 

Q9: Do I need a USB or installation CD to reset?

No, Windows 10 has a built-in reset feature, but recovery media may help if your system is corrupted.

 

Q10: Is resetting better than reinstalling Windows manually?

For most users, yes. The reset option is faster, easier, and built directly into Windows 10.

 

Final Thoughts

Resetting your computer might feel like a big step, but it’s often the most effective way to solve problems and give your PC a fresh start. If your Windows 10 computer has become slow, unresponsive, or filled with errors, resetting can clear out unnecessary files and settings. That makes your system run smoothly again. By following this guide on how to reset computer to factory settings Windows 10, you can complete the process with confidence. if you still need professional help, you can call us or book an appointment online. We will be there to help you.

Always remember to back up your important files, carefully choose between Keep my files or Remove everything, and be patient during the reset. Once finished, your computer will feel faster, cleaner, and almost like new.

At Geekify, we always recommend resetting as a last option after trying other troubleshooting methods, but when it’s needed, it can truly bring your PC back to life.