A Virus or Trojan or Worm That Can Survive a Factory Reset on Computer

Question

Hello,

I plan on doing a factory reset on my Thinkpad X270 Windows 10 Pro laptop, but I'd like to check on certain things:

I read the following on backed-up files:

"In most cases, a factory reset will remove viruses. But how exactly do some manage to survive it? Wherever your backup data is stored, make sure you scan it for malware before moving any of it back to your device. The recovery partition is part of the hard drive where your device's factory settings are stored."

1. I'm not sure what "recovery partition" means?
2. If I run my Windows Defender now, obviously before the reset, will that cover any and all infections on all my files, including all my documents and pictures?  
3. If the answer to "2" is no, how can I check every file and document -- I hope I don't have to do that individually?
4. If a virus or Trojan or Worm is put on my registrar -- not sure that's possible -- or in the Bios of my computer, will a total factory reset remove them?
5. Is there any kind of PC infection that a total reset can not manage, such as on the hardware -- I'm not even sure a virus/infection can infiltrate hardward but heard a rumor. Is this true?

Thank you,

Daffy D

Answer 1

Hey there Daffy!

My name is Miguel Ángel and I'm an independent advisor, also a Microsoft user just like you! I'll try to solve your doubts today!

I'll answer one by one!

1. I'm not sure what "recovery partition" means?

Some manufacturers use Recovery Partitions, like HP. That is a partition in your hard drive that allows you to recover all the operative system, drivers and manufacturer's software in case you need to do a reset. It looks like this in the file explorer:

https://www.support.hp.com/doc-images/618/c0374...

If there's no one, then you don't have one!

2. If I run my Windows Defender now, obviously before the reset, will that cover any and all infections on all my files, including all my documents and pictures?

Of course! Windows Defender scans all the files, including documents and pictures. All the folders are scanned, unless you exclude any in Windows Defender configuration.

4. If a virus or Trojan or Worm is put on my hardware -- not sure that's possible -- or in the Bios of my computer, will a total factor reset remove them?

Some virus are known to affect the BIOS image, however, they are not common at all. Normal virus (the ones that affect normal users) usually affect the system files and are usually solveable with any antivirus or a OS reinstall if it's too hard to solve. You don't have to worry though, antivirus softwares are really advanced on that matter (Windows Defender!).

Daffy, tell me if you have more questions or concerns. Just keep your antivirus always ON and you'll have zero issues!

Hugs,

Miguel Ángel :)