New Laptop Reset: Is it Safe?

TL;DR

If you can’t reset your new laptop to factory settings, don’t panic! It usually means the pre-installed software is preventing it. You can still do a clean install of Windows (or another OS) using a USB drive. This is perfectly safe and recommended for better security and performance.

Why Can’t I Reset My New Laptop?

Manufacturers often include bloatware (unnecessary software) and recovery partitions that interfere with the standard reset process. They want you to use their specific recovery tools, which may not offer a completely clean slate.

Is it Safe to Use the Laptop as is?

Using the laptop ‘as is’ isn’t immediately dangerous, but it’s less secure and efficient. Bloatware can:

• Slow down your computer
• Collect data about your usage
• Present security risks (vulnerabilities)

How to Do a Clean Install of Windows

A clean install is the best way to get rid of everything and start fresh. Here’s how:

Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Before you do anything, copy any important files (photos, documents, etc.) to an external hard drive or cloud storage.

Step 2: Download the Windows Installation Media

1. Go to the Microsoft website (or Windows 11 download page if that’s your version).
2. Download the “Media Creation Tool”.
3. Run the tool and choose to create installation media for another PC.
4. Select a USB drive with at least 8GB of space. The tool will format it, so make sure there’s nothing important on it!

Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive

1. Insert the USB drive into your laptop.
2. Restart your laptop.
3. As it starts up, repeatedly press a key to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. This is usually Del, F2, F12, or Esc. The exact key varies by manufacturer – check your laptop’s manual or search online for your model.
4. In the BIOS/UEFI settings, find the boot order options and set the USB drive as the first boot device.
5. Save changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI. Your laptop should now boot from the USB drive.

Step 4: Install Windows

1. You’ll be greeted with the Windows setup screen. Choose your language, time format, and keyboard layout.
2. Click “Install Now”.
3. Accept the license terms.
4. Choose “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)”. This is important for a clean install!
5. You’ll see a list of drives. Delete all existing partitions on your main drive to create unallocated space. Then, select the unallocated space and click “Next”. Windows will automatically create the necessary partitions.
6. Windows will now install. This may take some time.

Step 5: Complete Setup

After installation, you’ll be prompted to set up your user account, privacy settings, and network connection.

Alternative: Using a Recovery Drive (Less Clean)

If you prefer not to delete partitions, you can try creating a recovery drive. However, this method often doesn’t remove all bloatware.

1. Search for “Create a recovery drive” in Windows and follow the on-screen instructions.
2. Boot from the recovery drive (similar to Step 3 above).
3. Choose the option to reset your PC, keeping your files or removing everything.

cyber security Considerations

After installing Windows, remember to:

• Install a reputable antivirus program.
• Enable Windows Firewall.
• Keep your operating system and software up to date with the latest security patches.