How to Restore a System to Brand New

Restoring a computer system to "brand new" is another way of saying that you'll be restoring the unit to its original factory settings. Any changes that you've made to the computer since you've owned it -- which includes adding files and personal data to your hard drive -- will be erased and the computer will function exactly as it did the first time you ever plugged it in and turned it on.

Instructions

1. Turn on your computer. As you press the "Power" button, press and hold down the "F8" key on your keyboard to load the Windows Advanced Boot Options menu.

2. Highlight "Repair my Computer." Use the "Enter" key to select this option. This will display the Windows recovery console on screen.

3. Select "Restore your System" and hit "Enter." This will launch the utility that is used to restore your system to "brand new" condition. Select the "Next" option and follow the directions on screen -- you will be asked to set up a new administrator account for your computer. The recovery console will format your hard drive and reinstall your operating system, making it appear like your computer is brand new.

References

• Microsoft: Advanced Startup Options