Is your Lenovo laptop feeling sluggish, acting up with strange errors, or just not running like it used to? Sometimes, the best solution is a fresh start. Resetting your laptop can feel like giving it a new lease on life, clearing out clutter and resolving persistent software issues that slow you down.
Before you begin, the most important step is to back up your important files. A reset will erase your personal data, so save your documents, photos, and any other precious files to an external hard drive or a cloud service. Once that’s done, you’re ready to proceed.
Choosing the Right Reset Option for You
Windows provides two main reset paths, and the one you choose depends on your goal. The first option is great for keeping your files, while the second is a more complete clean slate.
Performing a Reset and Keeping Your Files
This is the most common method and a great first step for troubleshooting. It reinstalls Windows while preserving your personal files in a folder on the desktop. However, it will remove all the applications and programs you’ve installed, and reset your settings to default.
To start, go to Settings > System > Recovery. You’ll see an option for “Reset this PC.” Click the “Get started” button and then choose “Keep my files.” Follow the on-screen instructions, and your laptop will handle the rest. This process can take some time, so make sure your laptop is plugged into a power source.
When a Full Factory Reset is Necessary
If you’re planning to sell your laptop, donate it, or are dealing with a very serious software problem, a full factory reset is the way to go. This option will remove everything—all your personal files, apps, and settings—returning the laptop to the state it was in when you first took it out of the box.
The process begins in the same Recovery menu. This time, after clicking “Reset this PC,” select “Remove everything.” You may be asked if you want to clean the drives; if you’re disposing of the laptop, choosing to clean the data is a more secure option to help protect your privacy.
A Smooth and Refreshed Laptop Experience
Once the reset is complete, your Lenovo laptop will walk you through the initial setup process, just like when it was new. You’ll be greeted with a clean, fast system. From here, you can carefully reinstall only the programs you truly need and restore your files from your backup, ensuring your laptop runs smoothly for a long time to come.
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