Share via

how do i format my C drive on windows 10

Anonymous
2018-01-16T16:22:38+00:00

I bought  windows 10 laptop at Costco.  I hate it and want to return it but I need to format any leftover data and reset it to factory settings.  how do i do that to ensure that all of my data has been removed?

Windows for home | Windows 10 | Files, folders, and storage

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

0 comments

3 answers

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Anonymous
    2018-01-16T16:37:08+00:00

    Click Start > Settings (or press Windows key + i) > click Update & security

    Click Recovery then click Get Started under Reset this PC

    Reset offers two types of clean installs:

    Just remove my files - this option is quicker and recommended if you just want a fresh start and you plan to keep the computer.

    Remove files and clean the drive - if you plan to giveaway or resell your computer, this option ensures the computer is cleaned properly. Its takes a bit longer, but it is recommended if you plan to no longer use this computer.

    Click Reset to begin

    Windows 10 will restart

    Preparing to perform a reset

    Resetting - this might take some time depending on the amount of data

    Windows will check the drive for errors and fix them.

    Windows 10 performs a clean install again

    Learn more about preparing your computer for give away or donation:

    https://www.groovypost.com/howto/safely-sell-do...

    8 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  2. Anonymous
    2018-01-16T16:25:36+00:00

    Hi Karen,

    If you can get into Window:

    Press the Shift Key and click Restart

    Your PC will boot into the Windows Recovery Environment

    Go to Troubleshoot - Advanced Options - Reset this PC

    Choose to keep nothing

    Then start the Reset

    If you cannot get into Windows:

    Start PC, just as Windows attempts to load (spinning dots), press and hold Power Button for 5 - 10 seconds to perform a Hard Shut Down

    Do this twice

    On the third start Windows will boot into the Recovery Environment and from there you can access System Repair, Safe Mode, Command Prompt . . . etc.

    Go to Troubleshoot - Advanced Options - Reset this PC

    Choose to keep nothing

    Then start the Reset

    8 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments
  3. Anonymous
    2018-01-16T16:26:55+00:00

    Hi Karen. I'm Greg, a volunteer installation specialist and 8 year Windows MVP, here to help you.

    Run the Reset choosing for it to wipe the drive to get it cleanest: http://www.laptopmag.com/articles/reset-windows...

    If that fails do the Clean install in this link making sure to delete all partitions down to Unallocated Space to get it cleanest: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...

    I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and let us know how it goes. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

    2 people found this answer helpful.
    0 comments