How to wipe a PC: complete guide

Why wipe a PC?

Resetting a PC can be necessary in a number of situations: degraded performance, virus infection, persistent system errors, or preparing a device for resale. This procedure restores the Windows operating system to its initial state, removing unnecessary files and unwanted software.

How to prepare a PC reset?

Before wipe your PC, follow these essential steps:

It's important to note that some procedures may vary depending on the model and brand of your computer.

wipe a PC running Windows 10

Access recovery parameters

Windows 10 reset options

You have two options:

• Keep my files: Windows is reinstalled while preserving your personal files.
• Delete all: all data and applications are deleted.

Cloud download or local reinstallation?

• Cloud download: Ideal if the current system is corrupted, Windows will be reinstalled by downloading the latest version.
• Local reinstallation: Uses the installation files already present on your PC, which is faster but may present errors if these files are damaged.

wipe a PC running Windows 11

Using Windows 11's built-in reset

Advanced reset options under Windows 11

Windows 11 offers access to the Windows Recovery Environment(WinRE) for advanced options, such as system restore or reinstallation via external media.

How do I wipe a PC if Windows won't start?

1. Start your PC in recovery mode by pressing F8, F11 or Shift + Restart.
2. Choose Troubleshooting > wipe this PC.
3. Follow the instructions to reinstall Windows.

If this doesn't work, you can use a USB recovery drive to reinstall Windows.

What should I do after resetting my PC?

Check for Windows and driver updates

• Go to Settings > Windows Update and install the latest updates.
• Update drivers via the Device Manager.

Restore your personal files

If you have backed up your data, transfer it back to your PC, taking care not to restore any corrupted files.

Frequently asked questions about resetting a PC

What should I do if my problem persists despite the reset?

If the PC is still experiencing problems, consider a full reinstallation of Windows using a bootable USB key.

How long does it take to reset a PC?

This depends on the mode you choose: a local reinstall may take 30 minutes to 1 hour, while a download to the cloud may take several hours, depending on your connection.

Does resetting a PC solve all performance problems?

It often improves performance, but if your PC is very old or a hardware component is faulty, a hardware upgrade may be necessary.

Can I cancel a current reset?

No, once the process has begun, it must be completed to avoid system errors.