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Your ASUS laptop has been a reliable companion, but sometimes it needs a fresh start. Maybe it’s running slower than it used to, you’re encountering persistent software glitches, or you’re preparing to pass it on to someone else. A factory reset can be the perfect solution, returning your laptop to its original out-of-the-box state.

This process wipes all your personal files, applications, and settings, so it’s a big step. But with a little preparation, you can navigate it smoothly and give your machine a new lease on life.

Before You Begin: Safeguard Your Files

The most important step happens before you even start the reset. A factory reset will erase everything on your main drive (usually the C: drive). Be sure to back up all your important documents, photos, music, and any other files you want to keep to an external hard drive or a cloud storage service. Also, make a list of the programs you’ll need to reinstall afterward.

Two Main Paths to a Fresh Start

There are two primary methods to factory reset your ASUS laptop, and which one you use depends on whether your computer can still start up Windows normally.

Resetting from Within Windows

If your laptop can boot to the login screen or desktop, this is the easiest method. Click the Start menu, go to Settings, and then navigate to System > Recovery. You should see an option labeled “Reset this PC.” Click the “Get started” button. You will then typically have two choices: Keep my files (which removes apps and settings but keeps personal data) or Remove everything (a full factory reset). For the most thorough clean slate, choose “Remove everything.”

Using the ASUS Recovery Partition

If your laptop won’t start Windows, don’t worry. ASUS laptops come with a special recovery partition. To access it, turn the laptop completely off. Then, turn it back on and immediately press and hold the F9 key until you see the ASUS logo. This will launch the Windows Recovery Environment. From here, select “Troubleshoot,” then “Reset this PC,” and finally “Remove everything.” This will initiate the factory restoration process.

A Final Check Before You Proceed

Whichever method you choose, ensure your laptop is plugged into a power source. The last thing you want is for the reset to fail because the battery died midway through. The process can take an hour or more, so patience is key.

By following these steps, you can confidently restore your ASUS laptop to its original performance. It’s a powerful way to solve many common computer issues and enjoy that “like new” feeling once again.

There comes a time in every laptop’s life when a fresh start is the best medicine. Maybe your Dell is running slower than it used to, you’re preparing to sell it, or you’re simply troubleshooting a persistent issue. Restoring it to factory settings is a powerful solution that returns the software to its original, out-of-the-box state.

This process wipes all your personal files, applications, and settings, so it’s a big step. But with a little preparation, you can navigate it smoothly and give your machine a new lease on life.

Getting Ready for the Reset

Before you begin, the most important step is to back up everything you want to keep. Copy your documents, photos, music, and any other important files to an external hard drive or a cloud storage service. Also, make sure your laptop is plugged into a power source. The last thing you want is for the process to be interrupted by a dead battery.

Your Two Main Paths to a Fresh Start

Dell provides a couple of built-in methods to accomplish this. The easiest and most common way is through Windows itself.

Using Windows Settings for a Straightforward Reset

If you can still sign into Windows, this is your best bet. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. You’ll see an option for “Reset this PC.” Click “Get started.” You can then choose to keep your files (which only removes apps and settings) or remove everything for a complete wipe. For a true factory restore, select “Remove everything.” Windows will guide you through the rest, and the process can take an hour or more.

When to Use Dell’s Built-In Recovery Tool

If your laptop won’t start Windows properly, don’t worry. Dell computers come with a special partition on the hard drive dedicated to recovery. As your computer starts up, tap the F12 key repeatedly until you see a boot menu. From there, select “Troubleshoot,” and then “Dell DataSafe Restore and Emergency Backup.” This will launch the Dell-specific tool that will walk you through restoring the original factory image.

A Few Final Tips for a Smooth Process

After the reset is complete, your laptop will restart as if it were brand new. You’ll go through the initial Windows setup process again. Be patient, as it might need to install some updates. Once you’re back at the desktop, you can begin restoring your files from your backup and reinstalling your favorite programs.

Giving your Dell laptop a factory reset is a fantastic way to solve problems and improve performance. By backing up your data first and following these simple steps, you can confidently return your device to its original, speedy self.

Have you ever accidentally pressed a few keys on your laptop and suddenly found yourself tilting your head to see your screen? Or perhaps you’re trying to read a long document and wish you could turn your display to a portrait view. Screen rotation is a handy feature built into most laptops, but it can feel a bit mysterious if you’ve never used it before.

Whether you’re looking to fix an unintended screen flip or intentionally set up your display for a specific task, the process is usually quite simple. You don’t need to be a tech expert to get your screen oriented just the way you like it. Let’s look at the most common ways to rotate your laptop’s screen.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts for a Quick Fix

The fastest way to rotate your screen is often through a keyboard shortcut. This method is typically tied to your computer’s graphics drivers. Try pressing and holding the Ctrl + Alt keys together and then pressing one of the arrow keys. The Down Arrow will often flip the screen upside down, while the Left or Right Arrow will rotate it 90 degrees in that direction. Pressing the Up Arrow usually returns it to the standard landscape view. If this doesn’t work, don’t worry; your laptop might have this feature disabled, but there’s another easy way.

Adjusting Your Display Settings in Windows

If the keyboard shortcut isn’t working, the display settings in Windows provide a reliable alternative. Simply right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select Display settings from the menu that appears. Scroll down until you find the Display orientation dropdown menu. Here, you can choose from Landscape, Portrait, Landscape (flipped), or Portrait (flipped). Select your desired orientation and click Keep changes when prompted. This method gives you full control and is a surefire way to set your screen exactly how you want it.

What to Do If Your Screen is Stuck

Occasionally, you might find that the rotation options are grayed out or unavailable. This is often because your laptop is set to mirror a display or duplicate screens, especially if you use an external monitor. To fix this, go back into your Display settings and look for the Multiple displays option. Change it to Show only on 1 (or your main laptop display). This should re-enable the rotation options, allowing you to make the change you need.

Rotating your laptop screen is a simple trick that can make certain tasks much more comfortable. Whether you’re coding, reading, or just correcting an accidental key press, knowing how to manage your display orientation puts you in control of your digital workspace.

Ever needed to quickly capture what’s on your Dell laptop screen, whether it’s a funny chat, an important receipt, or an error message? Knowing how to take a screenshot is one of those simple skills that can save you a lot of time and effort. The good news is that your Dell laptop, running Windows, comes with several built-in methods to do this, from full-screen captures to more selective snips.

The Quickest Way: Print Screen Key

Look at the top-right of your keyboard for a key labeled PrtScn or PrtSc. Pressing this once copies an image of your entire screen to the clipboard. You can then paste it into an application like Microsoft Paint or Word by pressing Ctrl + V. For an even faster method, try the Windows Key + PrtScn shortcut. Your screen will dim briefly, and the screenshot will be automatically saved as a PNG file in your Pictures > Screenshots folder.

Capturing Just One Window

If you only need a picture of the active window you’re working in, there’s a perfect shortcut for that. Simply click on the window to make sure it’s in focus, and then press Alt + PrtScn. This captures only that specific window and copies it to your clipboard, ready for you to paste wherever you need it. This is great for keeping your screenshots clean and focused.

Using the Snipping Tool for Precision

When you need more control, the Snipping Tool (and its modern successor, Snip & Sketch) is your best friend. Just type “Snipping Tool” into your Windows search bar to open it. It allows you to capture a free-form area, a rectangular section, or a specific window. After you take your snip, a small editor opens so you can annotate, highlight, or crop the image before saving it. For a quick snip, you can also use the keyboard shortcut Windows Key + Shift + S.

Where to Find Your Saved Screenshots

Depending on the method you use, your screenshots end up in one of two places. If you use the Windows Key + PrtScn method, look in the Screenshots folder inside your main Pictures library. If you use the standard PrtScn or Alt + PrtScn keys, remember that the image is on your clipboard, so you’ll need to paste it into another program to save it.

With these simple methods, you’re now equipped to capture anything on your Dell laptop screen quickly and efficiently. Try each one to see which workflow fits your needs best.

Have you ever felt like your laptop screen is just a little too small? Whether you’re working on a detailed spreadsheet, editing photos, or just want to enjoy a movie on a bigger display, connecting your laptop to a monitor can make a world of difference. It’s a simple process that can instantly give you more screen real estate and improve your workflow.

You might be thinking it requires technical expertise, but in most cases, it’s as easy as plugging in a single cable. Let’s walk through the simple steps to get you set up with a dual-screen workspace that can help you be more productive and organized.

Finding the Right Port on Your Laptop

The first step is to check the sides of your laptop for video ports. The most common types you’ll see are HDMI, which is a wide, flat port, and USB-C, which is a small, oval-shaped port. Some older monitors might use a VGA (blue with tiny pins) or DVI (white with a grid of holes) connector. Just identify which one you have, and then find a cable that matches that port on one end and the port on your monitor on the other.

Making the Physical Connection

Once you have the correct cable, plug one end firmly into your laptop and the other end into your monitor. Ensure both devices are powered on. Your laptop might automatically detect the new monitor and display your screen right away. If not, don’t worry—a quick setting adjustment is all you need.

Adjusting Your Display Settings

If your screen doesn’t appear on the monitor, you can manually tell your laptop to use it. On Windows, press the Windows key + P to bring up a project menu. You can choose to Duplicate your screen, Extend your desktop for more space, or use the monitor as the Second screen only. On a Mac, go to System Settings > Displays and arrange your screens to match their physical setup on your desk.

Why a Second Screen is a Game-Changer

Using a second monitor can completely change how you work. Imagine having your email open on one screen while you write a report on the other. You can research on your laptop screen and take notes on the larger monitor. It reduces the need to constantly switch between tabs and windows, making your tasks feel smoother and less cluttered.

Connecting a laptop to a monitor is one of the easiest and most effective upgrades you can make to your computer setup. With just one cable and a few clicks, you can create a more comfortable and efficient workspace that helps you see the bigger picture, literally and figuratively.

Walking into a store or browsing online for a new laptop can feel overwhelming. With prices ranging from a couple of hundred dollars to several thousand, it’s hard to know what to expect. The cost of a laptop isn’t just about the brand; it’s a reflection of the power, portability, and features packed inside. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay and how to find the right machine for your budget.

Finding a Laptop for Everyday Tasks

If your main activities are browsing the web, checking email, and streaming videos, you’re in luck. You can find capable laptops for under $500. These machines, often Chromebooks or entry-level Windows laptops, are perfect for students and casual users. They handle everyday apps with ease and offer great battery life, making them a fantastic value for basic computing needs.

Investing in a Machine for Work or School

For more demanding tasks like multitasking with many browser tabs, creating presentations, or light photo editing, you’ll want to step up your budget. Laptops in the $500 to $1,000 range typically feature faster processors, more memory (RAM), and sharper displays. This is the sweet spot for professionals and university students who need reliable performance without breaking the bank.

When You Need High-Performance Power

Are you a serious gamer, a video editor, or a software developer? High-performance laptops are built for you. Gaming laptops and mobile workstations with powerful graphics cards, top-tier processors, and premium displays start around $1,000 and can easily exceed $2,500. You’re paying for the ability to run intensive software and the latest games smoothly.

The Price of Premium Portability

For those who prioritize a sleek design and lightweight build, ultra-thin models like the Apple MacBook Air or Dell XPS series command a premium. You can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,800 for these devices. The cost reflects the high-quality materials, brilliant screens, and compact engineering that makes them so easy to carry all day.

Key Factors That Influence the Price

Remember to look beyond the sticker price. A laptop’s cost is directly tied to its components. A larger solid-state drive (SSD) for storage, a higher-resolution screen, and more RAM will all increase the final price. Think about which features are most important for how you plan to use the device.

Ultimately, the right laptop for you is the one that fits both your computing needs and your budget. By matching the machine’s capabilities to your daily tasks, you can make a smart investment that will serve you well for years to come.

Has your laptop been feeling a bit sluggish lately? Maybe it’s been freezing up, acting strangely, or you’re simply planning to pass it on to someone else. Whatever the reason, knowing how to reset your laptop is a bit like having a master key for digital troubles. It’s a powerful process that can return your computer to a fresh state, wiping away years of digital clutter and potential problems in one go.

Before You Begin: The Essential First Step

This is the most important part of the entire process. A full reset will erase all your personal files, applications, and settings. Before you do anything else, back up everything you want to keep. Copy your documents, photos, videos, and any other important data to an external hard drive, a USB stick, or a cloud storage service. Double-check that you have everything saved safely.

Finding the Reset Option on Windows

For most Windows users, the reset feature is built right into the settings. Click on the Start menu, then select the Settings gear icon. Navigate to Update & Security and then click on Recovery. You should see an option that says “Reset this PC.” Click the “Get started” button to begin. You’ll then be presented with a crucial choice.

Choosing Between a Cloud or Local Reinstall

Windows often gives you two reset methods. The Cloud Download fetches a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft’s servers. This is often the fastest and most reliable option if you have a good internet connection. The Local Reinstall uses files already on your device. You’ll also choose whether to keep your personal files (a refresh) or remove everything (a full reset). For a truly clean slate, “Remove everything” is the best choice.

How to Reset a Mac to Factory Settings

On a Mac, the process is a little different but just as straightforward. Restart your Mac and immediately press and hold the Command (⌘) and R keys until you see the Apple logo or a spinning globe. This boots you into macOS Recovery. From the Utilities window, select Disk Utility to erase your main hard drive (usually named “Macintosh HD”), then go back to the Utilities window and choose Reinstall macOS. This will guide you through installing a clean version of the operating system.

Resetting your laptop can feel like a big step, but by following these guides, you can confidently give your machine a new lease on life. Just remember that one crucial first step—backing up your data—and you’ll be ready to enjoy a faster, cleaner computer.

Expanding your digital workspace with multiple monitors can feel like a game-changer. Whether you’re a professional juggling spreadsheets and emails, a creative managing timelines and tool palettes, or a gamer wanting a more immersive view, more screen real estate can dramatically improve your workflow. The good news is that connecting two or even three monitors to your laptop is often much simpler than it seems.

Check Your Laptop’s Video Ports First

Before you buy any cables or adapters, take a quick look at the sides of your laptop. You’re looking for video output ports. Common ones include HDMI, which is wide and flat; DisplayPort, which is similar but has one notched corner; and USB-C, which is small and oval. Some older laptops might have a VGA port, a blue trapezoid with tiny pins. Identifying what you have is the first and most important step, as this determines the cables you’ll need.

Choosing the Right Cables and Adapters

Once you know your laptop’s ports, you can match them to your monitors. If your monitor has the same port as your laptop, a simple standard cable will do. If the ports don’t match, you’ll need an adapter. For example, if your laptop only has USB-C ports but your monitor uses HDMI, a USB-C to HDMI adapter is the solution. For connecting multiple monitors, you might need to use a combination of your laptop’s built-in ports and a docking station, which can add several video outputs through a single USB-C connection.

Configuring Your Display Settings in Windows

With everything plugged in, it’s time to tell your computer how to use the new screens. On Windows, right-click your desktop and select Display settings. Here, you’ll see boxes representing your monitors. You can drag them to match their physical arrangement on your desk. Below that, you can choose how they work together. Select Extend these displays to create one continuous desktop across all your screens, giving you the maximum amount of space to work with.

A Quick Tip for a Clean Setup

To keep cords from becoming a tangled mess, consider your laptop’s placement. Using a docking station can centralize all your connections, making it easy to plug in with one cable. Also, check your monitor stands—many allow you to route cables through them for a cleaner look.

With the right cables and a few clicks in your settings, you can create a powerful multi-monitor setup that boosts your productivity and makes your computing experience much more comfortable. It’s a small investment that pays off every single day.

You love using your AirPods with your iPhone, but did you know they can also be your go-to headphones for your Windows laptop? Whether you’re hopping on a video call, listening to music, or diving into a movie, pairing them is a straightforward process. While they’re designed for Apple devices, they work just fine with Windows, giving you that cord-free freedom you enjoy.

Connecting your AirPods to a Windows machine is similar to pairing any other Bluetooth device. It only takes a minute to set up, and once you do, they’ll usually reconnect automatically whenever you open the case near your laptop. Let’s walk through the simple steps to get you connected.

Getting Your Laptop Ready for Pairing

The first thing you need to do is make sure your Windows laptop’s Bluetooth is turned on. Click on the notification center in the bottom-right corner of your taskbar (next to the clock) and look for the Bluetooth tile. If it’s not blue or says “Not connected,” click on it to turn it on. You can also go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices to ensure it’s active.

Preparing Your AirPods for Connection

Now, grab your AirPods. With them in their charging case, open the lid. On the back of the case, you’ll find a small, circular button. Press and hold this button until the status light inside the case starts flashing white. This means your AirPods are now in pairing mode and are discoverable by your computer.

The Final Step: Completing the Pairing

Head back to your laptop and go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices. Click on “Add Bluetooth or other device,” and then select the “Bluetooth” option. Your computer will search for available devices. After a moment, you should see your AirPods appear in the list. Click on their name, and Windows will handle the rest. A confirmation message will appear once they are successfully connected.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

If you don’t see your AirPods in the list, double-check that they are still in pairing mode (the light should be flashing white) and that your laptop’s Bluetooth is on. Remember, you only need to go through this full pairing process once. For future use, simply take your AirPods out of the case, and they should connect to your laptop automatically as long as Bluetooth is enabled.

And that’s all there is to it! You can now enjoy the wireless convenience of your AirPods with your Windows laptop for all your audio needs. It’s a simple bridge between two different tech worlds that makes your daily routine a little easier.

That little sticker with the serial number on your laptop might seem unimportant, but it holds the key to getting the right help. When you need technical support, want to check your warranty status, or are reporting a stolen device, knowing how to find your laptop’s serial number is essential. It’s a unique identifier, like a fingerprint for your machine.

Don’t worry if the sticker has worn off; there are several simple ways to locate this crucial piece of information using your computer’s own software. Let’s look at the most common methods that work across different brands.

Check the Physical Laptop

The quickest way is often to look at the laptop itself. Power down your device and turn it over. Look for a sticker on the back that lists the serial number (often abbreviated as S/N or Serial No.). Sometimes, you might also find it on the side, inside the battery compartment (if it’s removable), or even on the original packaging and receipt.

Use a Simple System Command

If the sticker is missing or faded, your operating system can tell you. On Windows, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type cmd and press Enter. In the black command prompt window, type wmic bios get serialnumber and press Enter. Your serial number will appear right there.

Find It in Your System Information

Another easy way is through System Information. Again, press the Windows key + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter. A window will open with a full list of your system’s details. Scroll down on the main page until you find System SKU or look for an entry labeled System Serial Number.

Locating the Number on a Mac

For Apple MacBook users, the process is just as simple. Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select About This Mac. In the window that pops up, you’ll see your serial number listed. You can click on it to copy it directly to your clipboard.

Why Your Serial Number Matters

Keeping a record of your serial number is a smart habit. It’s the first thing customer support will ask for, as it helps them identify your exact model and configuration. It’s also vital for insurance claims and is the best proof of ownership if your laptop is ever lost or stolen.

Taking a moment to find and save your laptop’s serial number in a safe place can save you a lot of time and hassle later. It’s a small step that makes managing your technology much smoother.