Many computer users are at their wits’ end when they are asked to restore computer to factory settings. This is because being told to restore computer to factory settings could mean different things to different people. Generally speaking, it means getting your PC back to the condition in which it was originally manufactured. However, it may also mean cleansing your computer to the point where it is only left with the operating system without any third-party software. Many laptops come with pre-made factory configurations/buttons with default settings which get disturbed over a period of time. If you want the computer to get back, you need to restore computer to factory settings, so take the following steps:
Steps To Restore Computer To Factory Settings
Backup files: Although most of your system files and settings could be saved while you restore computer to factory settings, it is best to take precautionary measures. Think as if you are out there to get your hard-drive reformatted and take every preventive measure that you’d take in that case. Having said that, you don’t have to save programs that can always be re-installed later.
Initiate Recovery: There are two ways to restore computer to factory settings. One method is to reinstall the OS using its reinstall or repair option. However, you’d usually need a Windows installation CD which is not always provided by the vendors these days. Most modern PCs feature a recovery disk with vendor-specific brand name. Specific examples of how to restore computer to factory settings include Acer eRecovery, Dell Factory Image Restore, HP PC System Recovery, etc. These programs can be initiated within the operating system. Alternately, you can see the partition during the PC’s reboot cycle.
Restore Settings: Although this process may vary with different machines, the general procedure is similar. Start off by initiating the recovery program, which would then give a warning message (that your data can be lost). Click on confirm button to reach the progress screen, which may prompt you to reboot. The entire process can take between 30 minutes to 2 hours so be patient and DO NOT cancel the progress. When done, the PC will reboot to commence Windows setup. It’s now time to create your user account just like you did when you bought the machine for the first time.
These are a few tips on how to restore computer to factory settings.