How to Restore an HP Computer to Factory Settings
By Stephen Bucaro
If your HP computer is experiencing problems, a factory reset can be a quick way
to fix your computer. The problem with this solution is that you will lose all your data on
the computer, and you will need to run Windows updates after the reset. Backup any files
you want to keep before you begin. This process will take a while so make sure the computer
is plugged in or has a charged battery.
Use Windows Settings
1. Click Start, (the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen).
2. In the Start menu, click Settings (the icon that looks like a gear).
3. In the Settings menu, scroll down and click Update & Security.
4. In the Update & Security menu, click Recovery.

5. On the Recovery page, under "Reset this PC", click the [Get Started] button.

6. In the "Reset this PC" dialog box, click on Remove everything (the second bar on the bottom).
This will start the process of restoring your computer to factory settings. This process will take a
while and your computer will restart several times during the process.
• You can also click on Keep my files. This option will restore your computer to
factory settings without removing your files. However, something in your files may be the cause of
your computer problems, so this not be effective.
More Windows Troubleshooting Articles: • Create Recovery Discs for Windows Vista with HP Recovery Manager • Windows Doesn?t Shut Down • Windows 7 Startup Modes for Troubleshooting • Troubleshooting a Dead Computer • The System Information utility • Troubleshooting Windows 10 DHCP is not enabled • Introduction to Windows 10 Resource Monitor • Windows 7 System Recovery Options • PC Technician's Guide to EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) • How to Create a Vista Boot Disk
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