This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to factory reset Lenovo laptop running Windows 11 or 10. Lenovo offers two options for factory resetting your device: you can choose to keep your files or remove them entirely.
How to Factory Reset Lenovo Laptop While Saving Files
You have the choice to either delete only your files or wipe all files and clean the hard drive for a fresh start. In either case, the reset process includes a clean installation of Windows on your Lenovo laptop.
| Note: If you have a Lenovo IdeaPad or ThinkPad laptop, you may utilize the NOVO button to enter the Lenovo OneKey Recovery mode for a factory reset. If your laptop lacks a button, there might be a recovery button pinhole that can be activated with a paper clip. |
Related: Best Lenovo Laptop of 2023
Factory Reset Lenovo Laptop in Windows 11 (Saving Files)
To preserve your documents and files when resetting in Windows 11, follow these steps:
Go to the Windows Start Menu and select Settings.
Select Recovery.
Select Reset PC.
Choose “Keep my files.”
Decide whether to reinstall Windows via Cloud Download or Local Reinstall.
Select Next to initiate the reset.
Factory Reset Lenovo Laptop in Windows 10 (Saving Files)
For Windows 10, the process is similar but with slight differences:
From the Start menu, go to Settings > Update & Security.
Choose Recovery and under Reset this PC, select Get Started.
Select “Keep my files” to save your documents.
You’ll see a message saying “This won’t take long” as the system prepares your machine for a reset.
Next, you’ll be prompted to review the changes, including removing all apps you’ve added, resetting the machine to system defaults, and reinstalling Windows. Click Reset to confirm and start the process.
| Note: Factory resetting your Lenovo laptop may take a considerable amount of time, so ensure it remains plugged into a power source for the duration. |
Performing a Hard Reset and Removing Files
If you’re planning to donate your laptop or want to address persistent issues with a clean slate, a hard reset is recommended. This wipes the machine entirely and sets it back to square one.
Hard Reset in Windows 11
Follow these steps in Windows 11:
Go to the Windows Start Menu and select Settings.
Select Recovery.
Select Reset PC.
Choose “Remove everything.”
Decide whether to reinstall Windows via Cloud Download or Local Reinstall.
Select Next to begin the reset.
Hard Reset in Windows 10
Follow these steps in Windows 10:
From the Windows Start menu, choose Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
Under Reset this PC, select Get Started > “Removing everything.”
If you’re keeping your PC, choose “Just remove my files.” This is faster but potentially less secure if giving away the laptop.
For a more thorough reset, choose “Remove everything” > “Remove files and clean the drive” to delete all apps and custom settings. Note that this action is irreversible.
Whichever option you select, once you’re ready to begin, click Reset.