How To Hard Reset Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide For Beginners

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5 min. read

Published on November 9, 2025

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A hard reset, also known as a factory reset, can be a lifesaver when your Windows 10 computer is experiencing persistent issues, such as slow performance, freezing, or software conflicts. This process essentially returns your computer to its original state, as if it were brand new, by erasing all personal data, installed applications, and settings. While it’s a drastic measure, it can often resolve problems that other troubleshooting methods can’t fix.

This guide will walk you through the process of performing a hard reset on your Windows 10 computer, ensuring that you back up your important files beforehand to avoid data loss. We’ll cover the steps involved, the different options available, and some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and successful reset.

What Are the Steps to Hard Resetting Windows 10?

Back Up Your Important Data

Before initiating a hard reset, it’s crucial to back up all your important files and data. This process will erase everything on your computer’s hard drive, so failing to back up your data will result in permanent data loss.

Connect an external hard drive or cloud storage service: Ensure you have sufficient storage space to accommodate all your important files.
Copy your documents, photos, videos, and other essential files: Manually copy these files to your external hard drive or upload them to your chosen cloud storage service.
Back up your browser settings and passwords: Most browsers offer built-in features to synchronize your settings and passwords to your account. Ensure this feature is enabled.

Access the Reset Option in Windows 10

Windows 10 provides a built-in reset option that makes the process relatively straightforward.

Click on the Start button: This is usually located in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Click on the Settings icon: This icon looks like a gear.
Click on Update & Security: This option is near the bottom of the Settings window.
Click on Recovery: This option is on the left-hand side of the Update & Security window.
Under “Reset this PC,” click on Get started: This will initiate the reset process.

Choose Your Reset Option

Windows 10 offers two main reset options: “Keep my files” and “Remove everything.”

Choose “Remove everything”: Since we’re performing a hard reset, select this option to erase all data from your computer.
Select your installation media: You may be asked how you want to reinstall Windows. Choose “Cloud download” to download the latest version of Windows from Microsoft, or “Local reinstall” to use the files already on your computer. Cloud download is generally recommended for a cleaner installation.
Choose whether to clean the drive: You’ll be presented with an option to “Just remove my files” or “Remove files and clean the drive.” If you’re planning to give away or sell your computer, choose “Remove files and clean the drive” for added security. This process takes longer but makes it more difficult for someone to recover your data.

Start the Reset Process

Once you’ve selected your reset options, Windows 10 will provide a summary of what will happen.

Review the summary: Ensure that you understand the implications of the reset process.
Click on Reset: This will begin the hard reset process.
Wait for the process to complete: The reset process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your computer’s hardware and the options you selected.
Follow the on-screen instructions: Once the reset is complete, you’ll be guided through the initial setup process, as if you were setting up a new computer.

Tips for a Smooth Hard Reset

Ensure your computer is plugged in: The reset process can take a while, so ensure your computer is connected to a power source to prevent it from running out of battery.
Be patient: The reset process can take a significant amount of time, so be prepared to wait.
Do not interrupt the process: Interrupting the reset process can cause serious damage to your operating system.
Have your Windows product key handy: In some cases, you may be asked to enter your Windows product key after the reset.

Comparing Reset Options

| Feature | Keep my files

FAQ

How do I stop how to hard reset windows 10: a step-by-step guide for beginners? Open the relevant control, then choose Stop or Disconnect to end the session.

Does how to hard reset windows 10: a step-by-step guide for beginners affect battery life? Yes, it uses extra power for video and networking; keep the device charged.

Why can’t my TV or receiver be found during how to hard reset windows 10: a step-by-step guide for beginners? Both devices must share the same Wi-Fi and the feature must be enabled on the receiver.

Is a wired method more reliable for how to hard reset windows 10: a step-by-step guide for beginners? Usually yes; a cable removes Wi-Fi interference and lowers latency.