Back up important files (documents, photos, downloads, product keys, and any app data you need)
Disconnect external devices (USB drives, external drives, printers, and other peripherals)
Sign out of accounts (Microsoft/Google/Apple, if applicable) and note any required passwords
Windows 10/11
Settings → System → Recovery
Under “Reset this PC,” select Get started
Choose Keep my files or Remove everything
Select Local reinstall or Cloud download (if shown)
Click Next → Reset
Follow on-screen prompts to complete setup
Windows 8/8.1
Open PC settings → Update and recovery → Recovery
Under “Remove everything and reinstall Windows,” select Get started
Choose Remove everything
Follow on-screen prompts to complete setup
Windows 7
Restart the PC
Press F8 repeatedly before Windows loads
Select Repair Your Computer
Choose your language and sign in
Select System Restore or Factory Reset options (if available)
Follow on-screen prompts
Mac (Intel or Apple Silicon)
Back up data with Time Machine or another method
Shut down the Mac
Intel Mac: turn on and immediately hold Command + R
Apple Silicon Mac: turn on and hold the power button until “Loading startup options,” then select Options → Continue
In macOS Recovery, open Disk Utility
Select the startup disk → Erase (format as prompted)
Exit Disk Utility
Select Reinstall macOS
Follow prompts to reinstall and complete setup
Chromebooks
Sign out of the Chromebook
Press and hold Esc + Refresh, then press Power
Release Refresh when the recovery screen appears
Press Ctrl + D to enter Developer mode (if prompted) or follow screen instructions
Complete the on-screen reset steps
If you can’t access settings
Use built-in recovery/restore options from boot menu (varies by brand)
Look for “Recovery,” “Factory Reset,” or “System Restore” during startup (often via F8, F11, or a dedicated recovery key)
Follow the manufacturer’s on-screen recovery prompts