Introduction
Wiping a computer is the process of erasing all the data stored on it. It is a necessary step for disposing of a computer or passing it on to someone else. It is also important for keeping your data safe if you are upgrading to a new device. Wiping a computer running Windows 10 can be done in several different ways.
Use the Windows 10 Reset Tool
The Windows 10 Reset tool is an easy option for wiping your computer. It can be accessed by going to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. From there, you can select “Reset this PC” and follow the instructions. The tool will erase all your personal files, settings and apps but keep the version of Windows 10 that is installed.
The pros of using the Windows 10 Reset tool are that it is fast and easy to use. The cons are that it won’t completely wipe everything from your computer. Your personal files and settings will be erased but any malicious software or viruses could still remain.
Use a Windows 10 Installation Disc
Another way to wipe a computer running Windows 10 is to create a Windows 10 installation disc. This can be done by downloading the Windows 10 media creation tool and following the instructions. Once the disc has been created, you can boot up your computer with the disc and choose the “Custom install” option. This will erase everything from your computer and install a fresh version of Windows 10.
The pros of using a Windows 10 installation disc are that it will completely wipe your computer and install a fresh version of Windows 10. The cons are that it can take some time to create the disc and the process can be complicated for those who are not familiar with computers.
Use System Restore
System Restore is a built-in feature of Windows 10 that allows you to restore your computer to an earlier point in time. This can be used to wipe your computer by restoring it to the factory settings. To do this, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and select “Advanced startup”. From there, you can select “System Restore” and follow the instructions.
The pros of using System Restore are that it is fast and easy to use. The cons are that it won’t completely wipe everything from your computer. Your personal files and settings will be erased but any malicious software or viruses could still remain.
Format the Hard Drive
Formatting the hard drive is another way to wipe a computer running Windows 10. To do this, you need to access the Command Prompt. This can be done by going to Start > Search and typing in “cmd”. From there, type in the command “format c: /fs:ntfs” and follow the instructions. This will erase everything from your computer and install a fresh version of Windows 10.
The pros of formatting the hard drive are that it will completely wipe your computer and install a fresh version of Windows 10. The cons are that it can be complicated for those who are not familiar with computers and it can take some time to complete the process.
Use Third-Party Software
There are many third-party software programs available that can be used to wipe a computer running Windows 10. These programs are designed to securely erase all data from your computer and make it unrecoverable. They can be downloaded from the internet and used to wipe your computer quickly and easily.
The pros of using third-party software are that it is fast and easy to use. The cons are that it may not be as secure as other methods and it can be difficult to find reliable software.
Create a Backup Image
Creating a backup image is another way to wipe a computer running Windows 10. This involves creating an exact copy of your hard drive and storing it on an external hard drive or USB flash drive. You can then use the backup image to restore your computer to its original state.
The pros of creating a backup image are that it is a secure and reliable way to wipe your computer. The cons are that it can take some time to create the backup image and it requires an external storage device.
Reinstall Windows 10 from Scratch
Reinstalling Windows 10 from scratch is the most secure way to wipe a computer. This involves downloading the Windows 10 installation files and installing them on your computer. This will erase everything from your computer and install a fresh version of Windows 10.
The pros of reinstalling Windows 10 from scratch are that it is secure and reliable. The cons are that it can take some time to download the installation files and it can be complicated for those who are not familiar with computers.
Conclusion
Wiping a computer running Windows 10 can be done in a variety of ways. The Windows 10 Reset tool, creating an installation disc, using System Restore, formatting the hard drive, using third-party software, creating a backup image, and reinstalling Windows 10 from scratch are all possible options. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider which one is best suited to your needs before proceeding.
