How to format Computer and Laptop: How to Reset Windows 10 in 10 Minute | ResetPC Without LosingData, by One Touch Computers on YouTube. 9 min 56 s.
- Video length
- 9 min 56 s
- Time to do it
- 30 to 60 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Copy your photos, documents and other important files to an external drive or cloud storage first. A reset can remove apps and personal files.
Plug the laptop into the charger and keep it connected for the whole process. A drop in power can leave Windows damaged.
Open Settings from the Start menu, then click Update & Security and choose Recovery in the left panel.
Under Reset this PC, click Get started. Choose Keep my files to save your personal files, or Remove everything for a clean wipe.
Pick Cloud download or Local reinstall when asked how to reinstall Windows. Local reinstall works without internet.
Review the list of apps that will be removed, then click Reset to confirm. The laptop restarts on its own several times.
Wait while Windows reinstalls. This usually takes 20 to 45 minutes, so do not close the lid or press the power button.
Sign in with your Microsoft account, connect to Wi-Fi, run Windows Update and reinstall the apps you need.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep my files still removes installed programs, so note down the apps you use before you start.
A local reinstall is faster, but a cloud download gives you a fresh copy of Windows.
If the reset fails, use the Advanced startup option to open Troubleshoot and try again from there.
Questions
Will a reset delete my files?
Only if you choose Remove everything. The Keep my files option saves your documents and photos but removes apps and settings.
Do I need an installation disc or product key?
No. The recovery tools are built into Windows 10 and the licence is stored on the laptop, so it reactivates by itself.
How long does a factory reset take?
Most laptops finish in 30 to 60 minutes, but older machines with slow drives can take a few hours.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
