A factory reset is a thorough process that restores a computer or phone to the condition it was in at the time of its initial purchase. It entails wiping the device clean by removing all user data, programs, settings, and preferences. When dealing with recurrent problems, offering the gadget for sale or donation, or getting it ready for a new start, this might be helpful.
How does Computer Factory Reset Works?
A computer factory reset is a process that restores the system to its original state as if it just came out of the factory. It involves wiping out all user data, applications, settings, and configurations. This situation will get rid of existing data on your devices. For a start, there are software that allows you to select the specific part of the device you want to reset. This could be your files, apps, specific files, OS, or the entire device. Factory reset on entire device will bring about a fresh start like when you just buy your device newly.
On devices like iPhone, you can use this to reset the network and refresh when your network is bad. Since this leads to file erasure, if you want to reset your whole computer system, you will have to start with data backup. This backup can be recovered after the reset had been done and device reboot. After this, you can go on with other processes by going to settings and reset your device. The factory reset is also an important part of troubleshooting process in some cases. It fixes computer problems like network, app malfunctions, corrupted files, battery drain, security or virus concerns amongst others.
Steps to Get computer Reset Done
To get the factory reset done on your computer, these are the steps you have to take. The steps are in detailed as this process is crucial to take note in order to protect your computer and important data most especially.
#1 Backup
Before executing a factory reset, backing up your data is an essential step in guaranteeing the security of your sensitive information. Consider it as putting a safety net around your online activities. When you back up, you effectively create a duplicate of your files and data and store it somewhere secure that is not connected to your computer.
During a factory reset, all your data, apps, and settings will be erased from your computer. This includes photos, documents, music, and anything else you’ve saved. Without a backup, this data could be lost forever.
How do you back up then? External hard drives, online storage, and even specialist backup software are all options. Making this a routine will protect your memories, work, and crucial information against any unforeseen data loss.
#2 Go to Settings and Reset
Start by gaining access to the settings on your computer before doing a factory reset. Within the settings menu, look for the “Reset” or “Recovery” area. You can choose from a number of reset choices in this area. Select the option that best serves your needs, frequently marked “Remove everything” to carry out a comprehensive reset.
This operation starts the process of erasing all of the computer’s data, programs, and settings. Following the reset, the device will walk you through the first setup procedure, during which you’ll set up a new user account and some fundamental settings. A factory reset is a significant step, so make sure you’ve backed up any vital data before starting.
#3 Erasing Process
The computer does the reset during this phase also known as the “Recovery Process,” carefully deleting user accounts, apps, settings, and data. Depending on the speed of your computer and the amount of data being removed, this phase takes some time. The computer does a thorough cleanup to make sure there are no leftovers from your prior usage. After completing this step, the device is ready for a new beginning and will take you through the setup procedure as if it had just been unpacked.
#4 After Reset Setup
The next stage is the restoration of the computer’s previous operating system and software configuration—known as reinstallation—is a crucial step in a factory reset. Immediately after the reset, the machine uses a recovery partition or disk to reinstall the OS, wiping off any accumulated changes or problems.
Users are prompted during guided setup to select their preferred language, time zone, and number of user accounts. The necessary drivers are subsequently installed, enabling device and OS communication. Pre-installed software and upgrades could be supplied, depending on the manufacturer. Users may restore backed-up files through data recovery, and preferences and settings can be changed through customizing.
Does Computer Reset Remove Virus?
A factory reset is an effective way to remove spyware and viruses from your device. This procedure completely wipes the gadget clean, effectively returning it to how it was when you originally got it. In numerous ways, this method aids in the eradication of viruses.
To successfully remove the harmful code, all data, including corrupted files and apps, is first entirely deleted. Furthermore, malware frequently affixes itself to apps, complicating manual removal. All installed programs, including any malicious software, are deleted entirely after a factory reset.
Viruses can also change system settings, which has an impact on security and speed. A factory reset restores default settings, removing any illegal modifications done by malware. Reinstalling the operating system from scratch also removes any potential backdoors or hidden malware that may have been there.
It’s crucial to keep in mind, though, that a factory reset results in data loss. Please be cautious to backup any important files before continuing. Last but not least, certain sophisticated viruses can persist after a factory reset by compromising the system firmware. It is advised to seek expert help in such circumstances.
FAQs
Factory reset is a powerful solution, but it’s recommended to try other virus removal methods first. Antivirus software and malware scans should be attempted before considering a factory reset.
A factory reset can remove most types of viruses and malware that reside within the operating system and applications. However, some advanced viruses might persist if they have infected system firmware.
The process varies depending on the device and operating system. Typically, you can find the factory reset option in the device’s settings. It’s recommended to back up your data before proceeding.
Yes, factory resets can usually be performed by users themselves. However, ensure you follow the correct procedure for your device and operating system to avoid any issues.
Conclusions
In conclusion, performing a factory reset can effectively remove viruses and malware from your device by completely wiping it clean. This process eradicates corrupted files, apps, and potential security vulnerabilities. A factory reset is a thorough restoration process that brings your device back to its original state, similar to when you first purchased it.
This method is a valuable troubleshooting step for various computer problems, including network issues, app malfunctions, corrupted files, battery drain, and security concerns. However, remember that a factory reset leads to data loss, so always back up important files before initiating the reset. In some cases, advanced viruses may persist after a factory reset by compromising system firmware, necessitating expert assistance.
