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Graham Slockbower 0 Reputation points
2026-05-08T01:54:11.5766667+00:00

need help removing everything from computer to proceed to junk it

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Recovery and backup
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  1. AI answer

    2026-05-08T01:54:27.59+00:00

    To remove everything from a Windows PC before junking or giving it away, use the built-in Reset this PC feature with full data removal.

    1. Back up anything important
      • Resetting will permanently remove apps, settings, and (depending on the option) personal files.
      • If the drive is encrypted, ensure the BitLocker recovery key is available. For more information see Find your BitLocker recovery key.
    2. Open Reset this PC (Windows 10/11)
      • Open Settings.
      • Go to System → Recovery.
      • Under Reset this PC, select Get started.
    3. Choose to remove everything
      • When prompted, select Remove everything (this reinstalls Windows and removes all personal files, apps, and settings).
    4. Enable drive cleaning for disposal
      • When asked about how to reinstall:
        • Choose Cloud download (downloads a fresh copy of Windows) or Local reinstall (uses files already on the PC).
      • When asked about data removal, enable the option similar to Clean data:
        • This removes files and cleans the drive, making it harder for others to recover files.
        • This process can take longer but is recommended if the PC is being donated, recycled, or junked.
    5. Start the reset
      • Confirm the choices and start the reset.
      • The PC will restart and go through the reset process. When finished, Windows will be in a fresh, out-of-box state with data removed according to the selected options.

    Note: The built-in data erasure is designed for consumers and does not meet specialized government or industry data erasure standards.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. Graham Slockbower 0 Reputation points
    2026-05-08T01:55:15.9366667+00:00

    can't reset this pc

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  3. Carl-L 21,745 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-05-08T07:36:49.12+00:00

    Hello Graham Slockbower,

    Welcome to Microsoft Q&A forum.

    Can you please tell me more details on why you cannot reset your computer? Do you have any difficulties following the suggestions of the AI assistant?

    If you still want to contact chat support, you can follow the steps below.

    • Go to Microsoft Support website.
    • Type Live chat in the search box. 
    • Now click Get help, and Select Contact Support or Sign in to contact support below. 
    • Go to the Products and services tab, and choose Other products
    • On the Category tab, choose Billing and Account Profile questions 
    • Go to Confirm. 
    • You can now choose the option of Chat with a support agent on your web browser. 

    I'm waiting for your reply.

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