Is your laptop running slowly, crashing frequently, or are you planning to sell or donate it? You might need to reset your laptop. Knowing how to factory reset a laptop can be a real game-changer. A factory reset restores your device to its original state—erasing all personal data, apps, and settings—just like when it was brand new.
In this guide, you’ll learn when a reset makes sense, how to back up your data safely, and step-by-step instructions on how to factory reset a laptop for Windows, MacBook, and Chromebook users. Let’s get started.
When should you factory reset your laptop?
Resetting your laptop isn’t something you do every day. But there are a few good reasons when it makes sense:
Performance issues
If your laptop feels slow, freezes often, or crashes—and basic troubleshooting hasn’t helped—a factory reset can clear out software conflicts or corrupted files that might be dragging down performance.
Malware or viruses
Sometimes antivirus software isn’t enough. A factory reset wipes your system clean of any malicious code that might be affecting performance or compromising security.
Preparing to sell, donate, or recycle
Before passing your laptop on to someone else, you want to make sure your personal data is gone for good. A factory reset clears out everything, protecting your privacy and keeping your information safe.
Unresolved system errors
If your laptop keeps showing blue screens or crashing after updates, resetting can return it to a stable configuration.
You just want a fresh start
Sometimes a clean slate is all you need—removing bloatware, organizing your apps from scratch, and reclaiming a decluttered digital space.
Thinking about a replacement?
If you’re in the market for a new device but want to stay budget-conscious, refurbished laptops can be a smart alternative to buying new.
Important: Back up your data before you begin!
A factory reset permanently erases all personal data and settings from your laptop. This includes documents, photos, music, emails, browser bookmarks, saved passwords, and application data. To avoid losing irreplaceable information, make sure to back up your files before proceeding. For paid software like Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, or antivirus tools, you’ll also need your license keys or activation codes to reinstall and reactivate them after the reset. Some apps store settings or configuration files that can be time-consuming to restore.
How to back up your data:
| Backup method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| External hard drive or USB | Copy files directly to an external storage device | Simple and fast | Can be lost or damaged |
| Cloud storage (OneDrive, Google Drive, iCloud) | Upload files to cloud accounts | Accessible anywhere, automatic syncing | Requires internet; storage limits |
| Backup software tools | Use built-in backup utilities like Windows Backup or Time Machine on Mac | Automated and thorough | Setup can be complex for beginners |
Before you start the reset, take a moment to verify your backup to ensure everything transferred correctly.
Step-by-step guide to resetting your device
Factory resets can take some time and drain your battery. To avoid interruptions, plug your laptop into a power source before starting.
How to factory reset a Windows laptop
Using Windows Settings (Windows 10 and 11)
- Go to reset settings:
- Click Start > Settings (gear icon)
- Navigate to System > Recovery
- Choose reset options:
- Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC
- Then pick an option:
- Keep my files—removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files
- Remove everything—fully wipes your device, removing all personal files, apps, and settings
- Pick reinstallation type & confirm:
- Cloud download—downloads the latest Windows version (requires internet)
- Local reinstall—uses existing files on your device to reinstall Windows
- Follow the on-screen instructions and confirm. Your PC will restart and begin the reset, which may take 30 minutes or more (depends on your device specs and reset type)
Using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
If your computer won’t start properly or keeps freezing, you can reset it using the built-in recovery mode called WinRE, which works even if you can’t log in.
So, how do you enter recovery mode? Start by force shutting down your laptop. When the Windows logo appears during startup, press and hold the power button until the device turns off. Repeat this process three times. On the fourth restart, Windows should automatically launch the recovery environment.
Alternatively, some laptops let you access recovery by pressing a key like F11, F8, or Esc during startup. This varies by brand, so check your manufacturer’s support page for the correct key for your device.
Once you’ve entered recovery mode, select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC. From there, follow the same reset steps outlined earlier to restore your device.
Manufacturer-specific recovery tools
Many laptop brands offer built-in recovery tools accessed via special key combinations during startup:
| Brand | Key Combination | Utility Name |
|---|---|---|
| HP | F11 | HP Recovery Manager |
| Lenovo | Novo button/F11 | Lenovo OneKey Recovery |
| Dell | F8 or F12 | Dell SupportAssist OS Recovery |
| Asus | F9 | Asus Recovery |
The availability and functionality of these recovery tools may vary depending on the laptop model and configuration. We recommend consulting the official support page of your laptop’s manufacturer for the most accurate and detailed walkthroughs.
How to factory reset a MacBook
Apple offers pretty straightforward methods to reset your Mac, depending on your macOS version and hardware configuration.
For macOS Monterey, macOS Ventura, or later
This method is available only on Macs with Apple silicon or the Apple T2 Security Chip.
- Open erase assistant:
- Click the Apple menu, then,
- On macOS Ventura or later: Go to System Settings > General > Transfer or Reset > Erase All Content and Settings
- On macOS Monterey: Open System Preferences, then click Erase All Content and Settings from the menu bar
- Click the Apple menu, then,
- Authenticate and confirm:
- Enter your administrator password to proceed (if prompted). This is required to verify you’re authorized to erase the device
- Follow the on-screen instructions to erase your Mac and return it to factory settings
For older macOS versions
- Enter macOS recovery:
- Restart your Mac and hold Command + R until the Apple logo appears
- Erase the startup disk:
- In macOS Utilities, choose Disk Utility > Continue
- Click the Erase button in the tool bar, then specify a name (usually “Macintosh HD”) and format (“APFS” or “Mac OS Extended (Journaled)”), and confirm
- If asked, enter your Apple account information
- Reinstall macOS:
- Exit Disk Utility, return to the main recovery window, and select Reinstall macOS. Follow on-screen prompts to complete the reset
For more support, visit Apple’s official website.
How to factory reset a Chromebook
- Sign out of your Chromebook:
- You must be logged out to begin the reset process
- Start Powerwash:
- Press and hold Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R, then click Restart in the popup box
- Reset and reconnect:
- Select Powerwash > Continue, then follow the instructions. Sign back in with your Google Account and set things up again
By following these steps tailored to your laptop’s operating system, you can return your device to its factory settings with confidence—clearing up problems, erasing sensitive data, and starting fresh.
Troubleshooting: What to do when you can’t access settings?
If your laptop is so unresponsive you can’t open settings, don’t worry—you still have options.
Using a bootable USB drive
- On another PC, download the Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s official website
- Use it to create a bootable USB stick
- Insert it into your laptop and boot from the USB (you may need to change BIOS settings)
- Click Repair your computer > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC
Keyboard shortcuts during startup
Try startup shortcuts like F11, F12, or Esc depending on your brand. Some may require the BitLocker recovery key, which you can find via your Microsoft account. If your device is managed by an organization, the key might be stored in your organization’s Azure Active Directory account. Contact your IT administrator for assistance.
Where to get professional help
If this all feels overwhelming or if your laptop isn’t responding, Geek Squad at Best Buy Canada offers expert support to walk you through recovery, data backup, and software setup.
After the reset: What’s next?
Once your device restarts, you’ll go through the standard setup steps again—choosing your language, region, and Wi-Fi network, and signing into your account (Microsoft, Apple ID, or Google).
After setup, restore your personal files from your backup, reinstall apps, re-enter license keys (for tools like Microsoft Office or Adobe Creative Cloud), and adjust your settings. Give yourself time to get everything back the way you like it.
Give your laptop a clean slate with a factory reset
A factory reset isn’t just a last resort—it’s a powerful tool for clearing clutter, resolving bugs, and safeguarding your data when handing off your laptop. Now that you know how to factory reset a laptop, you can troubleshoot persistent issues with confidence or give your system the fresh start it deserves.
Still having issues with your laptop? Visit BestBuy.ca to explore new laptops, accessories, or get expert help from Geek Squad.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
