I am trying to reset my PC so I can give it to a friend.

Question

I follow the instructions in settings and windows indicates that it will take a few minutes to remove my profile and files but the computer clocks for 12 + hours with no results.

Answer 1

Hi,

If the percentage screen is stuck at 12 hours, it might be frozen. Did you select the option to keep files and programs or not keep anything?

In that case, we can try a clean install using the USB method, and I can instruct you on how.

Thanks

Answer 2

When a Windows 10 reset hangs for many hours, the reset process is usually stuck and needs to be restarted using Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE). Since the goal is to give the PC to a friend, using Remove everything with drive cleaning is appropriate.

Use these steps:

1. Force the device into Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
   • Power on the PC.
   • As soon as the Windows or manufacturer logo appears, press and hold the power button until the PC turns off.
   • Repeat this power‑on, then hold‑power‑to‑turn‑off sequence three times.
   • On the third start, Windows should show Preparing Automatic Repair, then Automatic Repair → select Advanced options.
2. Start a reset from WinRE
   • In WinRE, select Troubleshoot.
   • Select Reset this PC.
   • Choose Remove everything so all personal files, apps, and settings are removed before giving the PC away.
   • When asked, choose:
     • Cloud download if there is a reliable internet connection and the latest Windows image is desired, or
     • Local reinstall if the connection is slow or limited.
   • If prompted about cleaning the drive, choose the option that cleans the drive to make file recovery harder (recommended when donating or giving away the PC). Note that this may take longer.
3. Let the reset complete
   • During reset, the screen can stay black for a long time (sometimes up to 15 minutes) and the device may restart several times.
   • Do not manually power off or restart during this process, as that can cause the reset to fail again.

If WinRE reset also fails repeatedly, the next step would typically be to reinstall Windows using external installation media, but that is beyond the information provided in the context.

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References:

• Reset your PC
• Resetting a desktop device
• Reset or recover your Surface
• New laptop MSI won't go past update installation at first boot - Microsoft Q&A
• Plethora of issues relating to windows and possibly security. - Microsoft Q&A