How to Reset a Dell Desktop Computer to Factory Settings

Sometimes computers need to be restored. While most Dell desktops respond well to a "system restore" procedure, which restores the Windows operating system, occasionally a computer may need to be restored to factory settings. This is usually a last resort due to viruses that can't seem to be removed. While you should try "system restore" on your Dell first, resetting the desktop to factory settings is an option. Be aware, however, that performing a factory reset will result in the loss of all data on your hard drive.

Instructions

1. Make copies of all items on your PC you wish to save, such as photos, documents or other installed programs. Resetting your PC to factory settings will erase all data on the hard drive and anything that you installed on your computer after you received it.

2. After copying your files, restart your computer.

3. As the computer is turning on, press and hold the "F8" key before the Windows logo appears. This will take you to the "Advanced Boot Options" menu.

4. Select the "Repair Your Computer" option.

5. Select the "Dell Factory Image Restore" option or the "Dell Factory Image Recovery and DataSafe" option (this will vary depending on your Dell computer model). Follow the prompts to reformat your hard drive and restore the factory settings.

Tips & Warnings

• Before taking a drastic measure and reverting to factory settings, try a "system restore" point first or call Dell Tech Support.

• Remember, resetting factory settings will wipe your computer clean of any programs you have installed on it since you received it. Always make backups.

References

• Dell: Restoring Your Computer´s Software to the Factory Settings

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Dell: Support
• Dell: Contact Technical Support.