Users who choose to keep their files will need to decide whether they want to erase the computer’s preinstalled apps.īefore the reset starts, click Change settings to choose whether the Data erasure feature is enabled this essentially overwrites data on disk and makes sure it can't be recovered. Pick Keep my files to reset Windows core settings and files without interfering with your personal stuff pick Remove everything for a more comprehensive wipe, which means you'll need to add your files again later from your backup. In other words, make sure they're still backed up, just in case. Don't assume that Windows will know where all your personal files are kept. You should (hopefully) have fewer hiccups now that you know how to reset your Windows 10 PC. And if you're planning on selling or giving your laptop away, you can do it with peace in mind that the next owner won't have access to your files.On the next screen, Windows gives you the option of removing everything or keeping your personal files-essentially what you've got saved on the desktop and in the designated user folders (Documents, Pictures, Music, and so on). From here, choose between the options listed above. From the option screen, choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.Your PC will restart in Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) environment.Instead, you can reset your PC by holding the Shift key while you click the Power button > Restart in the lower-right corner of the screen.This will take you to the Windows 10 sign-in screen. Press the Windows logo key and L on your keyboard.If your laptop is acting up, and you can't access the settings menu, you can try resetting your PC from the sign-in screen.

How to reformat Windows 10 from the sign-in screen

Reset computer to factory settings