How long does a factory reset take?

A factory reset often takes around 15 minutes to an hour to complete. This varies depending on your system’s performance and the type of device you’re resetting.

Does a factory reset delete everything?

A full factory reset deletes everything on your computer. However, during the factory reset process, you can choose to keep files to preserve your most important data.

How does a factory reset differ from a system restore?

A factory reset brings your system to default settings, while a system restore brings it back to a previously backed up state. Both can remove some of your data, as older versions of your system might not include recently created or downloaded files or programs.

What’s the difference between a hard reset and a factory reset?

A hard reset removes the operating system without reinstalling it while a factory reset reinstalls the same operating system. Hard resets do not let you preserve some of your data.

Will a factory reset clean harmful software from my computer?

A factory reset can remove harmful software from your computer, since it removes any files and programs that didn’t come preinstalled from your system. However, it will not remove malware hidden inside firmware or infected files you backed up and redownload to your PC.

How to factory reset a PC (Windows 10 or 11)

Keep your PC protected

Install Norton AntiVirus Plus to help protect your factory reset PC against malware and keep it running smoothly.

Get it now

Keep your phone running smoothly

Install Norton AntiVirus Plus to help protect your phone against malware and keep it running smoothly.

Get it now

Keep your phone running smoothly

Install Norton AntiVirus Plus to help protect your phone against malware and keep it running smoothly.

Get it now

Go to Account to download services
Go to account

When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. Touch device users, explore by touch or with swipe gestures.