How to erase all data on a Windows-based PC

You are here because you have a Windows-based device running Windows 10 and:

• wish to sell it, trade it, or give it away.
• want a fresh start with your device.
• are enrolling it in Microsoft Intune for the first time in order to manage the machine using Mobile Device Management (MDM).

What does the Control Panel feature "Reset this PC" do?

"Reset this PC" lives up to its name by doing pretty much exactly what it says it does: it erases all files and settings. This process essentially reverts the machine back to its factory state. Please backup any needed files before proceeding as this process is not reversible. It's also important to note that all files and settings will be erased for all profiles, or users, on the machine. 

How do I use "Reset this PC?"

1. Click Start (⊞) followed by Settings. (⚙)
2. Click on "Update & Security."
   
   
   
   
3. Click on "Recovery" in the left navigation panel.
   
   
   
   
4. Under "Reset this PC," click the "Get started" button.
   
   
   
   
5. When prompted to keep or remove files, select "Remove everything' to reset your PC back to factory settings. (Note: This will delete all files and settings for ALL users on the device, not just the logged-in user.)
   
   
   
   
6. You will be presented with two options: "Just remove my files" or "Remove my files and clean the drive." If you are keeping the device, "Just remove my files" is faster. If you are selling, donating, trading, or giving the machine away, it's recommended to select "Remove files and clean the drive" as it overwrites the drive with random data to prevent the recovery of files.  (Note: Remove files and clean the drive will take several hours to complete.)
   
   
7. You will see a screen summarizing the applications that will be removed. It's a good idea to document this list in the event that you need to reinstall the apps. Click "Next."
   
   
8. The final step before erasure is to view a summary of the work that is about to be completed. Click "Reset."
   
   
   
   
9. Your PC will now erase all data and settings. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours depending on the options that were selected in previous steps.