Resetting your computer to the factory default settingsIf you want to recycle your computer or just start over, you can reset your computer to the factory defaultsettings. Resetting the computer will reinstall the operating system, reinstall all the programs that came withyour computer, and reset all the settings to the factory default settings.Attention: If you reset the computer to the factory default settings, all your personal files and settings will bedeleted. To avoid data loss, make a backup copy of all the data that you want to keep.To reset your computer to the factory default settings, do the following:1. Move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to bring up the charms. ClickSettings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and recovery ➙ Recovery.2. In the Remove everything and reinstall Windows section, click Get started. Then click Next toconfirm the operation.3. Depending on your needs, do one of the following:• To perform a quick format, click Just remove my files to start the process. The process will takeseveral minutes.• To perform a complete format, click Fully clean the drive to start the process. The process willtake several hours.4. Follow the instructions on the screen to reset your computer to the factory default settings.Using the advanced startup optionsWith the advanced startup options, you can change the firmware settings of the computer, change thestartup settings of the Windows operating system, start the computer from an external device, or restore theWindows operating system from a system image.To use the advanced startup options, do the following:1. Move your pointer to the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to bring up the charms. ClickSettings ➙ Change PC settings ➙ Update and recovery ➙ Recovery.2. In the Advanced startup section, click Restart now ➙ Troubleshoot ➙ Advanced options.3. Select a desired startup option, then follow the instructions on the screen.Recovering your operating system if Windows 8.1 fails to startThe Windows recovery environment on your computer is capable of operating independently from theWindows 8.1 operating system. This enables you to recover or repair the operating system even if theWindows 8.1 operating system fails to start.After two consecutive failed boot attempts, the Windows recovery environment starts automatically. Thenyou can choose repair and recovery options by following the instructions on the screen.Note: Ensure that your computer is connected to ac power during the recovery process.Creating and using recovery mediaYou can create recovery media as backups for the Windows recovery environment and the Windowsrecovery image. If you cannot start the computer, you can use recovery media to troubleshoot and fix theproblems on your computer.It is recommended that you create recovery media as early as possible. Once you create recovery media,keep them in a safe place and do not use them to store other data.Chapter 5. Recovery overview 71