
- #How to wipe a laptop clean of everything how to
- #How to wipe a laptop clean of everything install
- #How to wipe a laptop clean of everything update
- #How to wipe a laptop clean of everything upgrade
- #How to wipe a laptop clean of everything full
In addition to making a copy of your files, it's also recommended to create a list of the installed programs with their respective product keys (if applicable) to know which apps you need to reinstall in the new setup. Right-click on an empty space and select the Paste option.Īfter you complete the steps, repeat the instructions to backup the remaining accounts (if applicable). Right-click the selection and choose the Copy option.


In the case of OneDrive, you can also use the backup settings page to sync your profile folders (Documents, Pictures, and Desktop) to the cloud automatically. If you need to backup your documents, pictures, and other important files, you can upload the data to OneDrive or another cloud storage service. The tool is also available for Windows 8.1 and older versions.
#How to wipe a laptop clean of everything full
However, the easiest way to create a full backup is to use the legacy System Image Backup tool. On Windows 11 or Windows 10, you can choose from many solutions. (The backup process should be similar on Windows 11, 10, and 8.1.) Backup entire system Unless, of course, you do not have anything important you want to keep. You should always have an updated backup of the entire device before proceeding with a clean installation to have a way to recover in case something goes wrong.
#How to wipe a laptop clean of everything install
The device can start from a USB flash drive, and you disconnected non-essential peripherals, then you can skip this part to the bootable media creation and a clean install process. You have an activation key, or the current setup is activated correctly. If you already have a backup of the computer and files.
#How to wipe a laptop clean of everything how to
How to prepare PC for clean install of Windows 11Ī clean installation deletes everything on the target drive, which means that taking the necessary precautions to minimize the chances of issues and data loss is a must.
#How to wipe a laptop clean of everything upgrade
Or if you want to keep the computer, it’s almost like having a new computer.If you have had the same configuration for a long time, this would be the preferred option to upgrade from an older version (such as Windows 10 or Windows 8.1) while minimizing the chances of issues during and after the process. After you do this, when you give the computer away or sell it, it’s like a computer that has never been used. Since you’re not keeping the computer (or you just want to start with a completely clean computer), choose “Remove files and clean the drive” Selecting this wipes the C:\ drive (or Windows drive) of everything and then reinstalls Windows 10.
Windows will ask if you want “Just remove my files ” or “Remove files and clean the drive”. Remove everything – Removes all of your personal files, apps, and settings.ħ. Keep my files – Removes apps and settings, but keeps your personal files.ī. When you click on “Get started”, you’ll have at least two options…Ī. In Recovery under Reset this PC” > click on “Get started”ĥ.
#How to wipe a laptop clean of everything update
In Update & Security > click on RecoveryĤ. In Settings > click on Update & Security.ģ. Right-click on the Windows 10 start button & click SettingsĢ. This method will wipe everything and reinstall Windows 10.ġ.

WARNING: Do not do this if you want to keep your files. If you’re going to be giving away or selling your Windows 10 computer – or you just want a completely fresh start – you don’t need to download any 3-party software to wipe your personal information from your computer and reinstall a fresh copy of Windows before you give it away or sell it. How to Wipe Your Computer and Reinstall Windows 10
