How to Securely Erase a Windows PC After Data Transfer

Step by step

1. 1 min

   Open System Recovery settings

   Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I on your keyboard. Navigate to System and select Recovery from the right-hand menu.

   Note: Win + I
2. 1 min

   Initiate the Reset this PC process

   Under the Recovery options section, locate the Reset this PC button and click Reset PC. This will launch the blue recovery interface.

3. 1 min

   Select the Remove everything option

   Choose the Remove everything option to ensure all personal files, apps, and settings are erased. Do not select Keep my files, as that preserves your user profile data.

   Note: This is the most critical step for data privacy.
4. 1 min

   Adjust additional settings

   Click Change settings when prompted. Toggle Clean data to Yes to ensure the drive is securely overwritten, preventing file recovery by third-party tools.

   Note: Enabling data cleaning increases the reset time significantly but is essential for security.
5. 1 min

   Confirm and begin the reset

   Review your selections and click Next. Click Reset to begin the automated process; the computer will restart several times throughout the procedure.

   Note: Ensure your device is connected to a charger to prevent power failure during the drive wipe.
6. 30 sec

   Shut down after completion

   Once the process concludes and the Windows Out-of-Box Experience (OOBE) screen appears, press and hold the Power button until the device shuts down. Your PC is now wiped and ready for a new owner.

   Note: Do not set up the PC again; leave it at the welcome screen for the next user.