How to Delete Everything on Windows 10
Are you looking to start fresh on your Windows 10 computer? Whether you’re experiencing issues with your system or simply want to erase all your personal data, knowing how to delete everything on Windows 10 is essential. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of erasing all your files, settings, and applications to ensure a clean slate.
Step 1: Backup Your Data
Before you proceed with deleting everything on your Windows 10 computer, it’s crucial to backup any important files, documents, or photos you may have. You can use an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or cloud storage services like OneDrive or Google Drive to save your data.
Step 2: Use the Reset This PC Feature
Microsoft has made it relatively easy to reset your Windows 10 computer to its factory settings. Here’s how to do it:
1. Click on the Start button and select “Settings.”
2. In the Settings window, click on “Update & Security.”
3. Select “Recovery” from the left-hand menu.
4. Under the “Reset this PC” section, click on “Get started.”
5. Choose “Remove everything” and follow the on-screen instructions.
This process will remove all your files, settings, and applications, restoring your computer to its original state.
Step 3: Use the Advanced Startup Options
If you prefer a more hands-on approach or want to ensure that everything is deleted, you can use the Advanced Startup Options to perform a clean installation of Windows 10:
1. Restart your computer and press the F8 key repeatedly during the boot process to access the Advanced Boot Options menu.
2. Select “Troubleshoot” from the menu.
3. Click on “Advanced options.”
4. Select “Command Prompt.”
5. In the Command Prompt, type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
– diskpart
– list disk
– select disk [number] (replace [number] with the disk number of your Windows installation)
– clean
– create partition primary
– select partition 1
– active
– format fs=ntfs quick
– assign
– exit
6. Restart your computer and follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10.
Step 4: Use a Third-Party Tool
If you’re looking for a more straightforward way to delete everything on your Windows 10 computer, you can use a third-party tool like CCleaner or Disk Drill. These tools can help you erase all your files, settings, and applications quickly and efficiently.
1. Download and install a reputable third-party tool like CCleaner or Disk Drill.
2. Open the tool and select the “Cleaner” or “Erase” feature.
3. Choose the files, settings, and applications you want to delete.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to delete everything.
Conclusion
Deleting everything on your Windows 10 computer can be a daunting task, but with the right steps, you can ensure a clean slate. Whether you use the built-in Reset This PC feature, the Advanced Startup Options, or a third-party tool, following these instructions will help you erase all your data and start fresh. Just remember to backup your important files before proceeding.
