Factory resetting an HP desktop or all-in-one running Windows 10 erases your files and apps and reinstalls Windows, returning the computer to a clean state. You can start the reset from Windows Settings, from the recovery screen by pressing F11 at startup, or with HP’s Cloud Recovery Tool if the recovery partition is missing. This guide covers all three, plus backing up first and wiping the drive before selling.
Quick Answer
If Windows starts, open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, click Get started under Reset this PC, and choose Remove everything. If it doesn’t, turn on the PC and press F11 repeatedly, then choose Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
Before You Reset
- Back up documents, photos and browser data to an external drive or cloud storage.
- Save your BitLocker recovery key if device encryption is on.
- Disconnect external drives, printers and other USB devices except keyboard and mouse.
- Keep the PC plugged in and allow one to several hours.
Method 1: Reset From Windows Settings
- Press Windows + I and click Update & Security > Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
- Choose Remove everything for a full factory reset, or Keep my files to reinstall Windows but keep personal files.
- Choose Cloud download or Local reinstall.
- Click Change settings and turn on Clean data if you’re selling or donating the PC.
- Click Next and Reset.
A Local reinstall generally restores HP’s preinstalled apps and drivers; Cloud download gives a cleaner Windows install.
Method 2: Press F11 at Startup (Windows Won’t Start)
- Turn off the computer completely.
- Turn it on and immediately press F11 repeatedly until the recovery screen appears.
- Choose your keyboard layout if asked, then click Troubleshoot.
- Click Reset this PC (or Recovery Manager on some older HP models).
- Choose Remove everything and follow the prompts.
If F11 doesn’t work, turn the PC on and off during startup three times; Windows opens automatic repair and then Advanced options.
Method 3: HP Cloud Recovery Tool
If the recovery partition is missing or damaged, HP offers the HP Cloud Recovery Tool to create a USB recovery drive for your specific model:
- On a working Windows PC, download and install the HP Cloud Recovery Tool from HP’s support site.
- Insert a USB drive of at least 32 GB (it will be erased).
- Enter your HP computer’s product number (on the label on the back or bottom) and follow the prompts to create the drive.
- Plug the drive into the HP desktop, turn it on and press Esc, then F9 to open the boot menu and select the USB drive.
- Follow the on-screen recovery steps.
After the Reset
- Complete Windows setup, connect to the internet and run Windows Update.
- Open HP Support Assistant (or download it) to install the latest drivers and BIOS.
- Reinstall your apps and restore your files from backup.
- Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. If the PC meets the requirements, consider upgrading to Windows 11, or enroll in Extended Security Updates for continued security patches.
Resetting an HP laptop running Windows 11 instead? Follow our guide to resetting an HP laptop with Windows 11.
Troubleshooting
- “There was a problem resetting your PC”: try Cloud download, or use the HP Cloud Recovery Tool.
- BitLocker key requested: find it in your Microsoft account on another device.
- Reset stuck at a percentage: wait a few hours, especially with Clean data turned on.
- Forgot your Windows password: on the sign-in screen, hold Shift and click Power > Restart to reach Reset this PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a factory reset remove Windows activation?
No. Windows reactivates automatically with the PC’s digital license.
How long does it take?
Typically 30 minutes to two hours, longer with Clean data or on hard drives.
Is this the same for HP laptops?
Yes, the steps are the same. For general instructions on any brand, see how to factory reset Windows 10.
Summary
- Back up your files.
- Settings > Recovery > Reset this PC > Remove everything.
- Or press F11 at startup > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Use HP Cloud Recovery Tool if recovery is missing.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.