How to Securely Erase a Windows PC After Data Transfer

Learn how to factory reset and securely wipe your Windows PC to ensure all personal data is permanently removed before recycling or selling.

  1. Open System Recovery settings. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I on your keyboard. Navigate to System and select Recovery from the right-hand menu.
  2. Initiate the Reset this PC process. Under the Recovery options section, locate the Reset this PC button and click Reset PC. This will launch the blue recovery interface.
  3. Select the Remove everything option. Choose the Remove everything option to ensure all personal files, apps, and settings are erased. Do not select Keep my files, as that preserves your user profile data.
  4. Adjust additional settings. Click Change settings when prompted. Toggle Clean data to Yes to ensure the drive is securely overwritten, preventing file recovery by third-party tools.
  5. Confirm and begin the reset. Review your selections and click Next. Click Reset to begin the automated process; the computer will restart several times throughout the procedure.
  6. Shut down after completion. Once the process concludes and the Windows Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) screen appears, press and hold the Power button until the device shuts down. Your PC is now wiped and ready for a new owner.

Related

  • How to initiate your first wearable device backup
  • Optimizing Battery Settings on Your Smartwatch
  • How to Validate Workout Tracking Accuracy on New Wearables
  • Fixing Smartwatch Notifications After Initial Setup
  • How to Verify Your Smartwatch Setup
  • How to Share Live Location from a Child Smartwatch