Running a system recovery on Windows 10 involves several steps to restore your computer to a previous state or to reset it completely.Here's a detailed guide on how to perform a system recovery,including different methods and scenarios.
System recovery is a critical feature of Windows 10 that allows users to restore their computer to a previous state,potentially resolving software issues,malware infections,and system errors.This can be done through various methods such as System Restore,Reset This PC,and using recovery media.
Why Perform a System Recovery?
Resolve System Errors:Fix issues caused by software updates,drivers,or system configurations.
Remove Malware:Eliminate persistent malware by restoring the system to a state before the infection.
Revert Unwanted Changes:Undo changes that negatively affect system performance or stability.
Prepare for Disposal:Reset the system to remove personal data before selling or donating the computer.
Methods of System Recovery in Windows 10
1.System Restore
System Restore allows you to revert your computer's state to a previous point in time.This is useful if recent changes have caused problems.
Steps to Perform a System Restore:
Open System Restore:
Press Windows+S to open the search bar.
Type"Create a restore point"and select the matching result.
In the System Properties window,click on"System Restore."
Choose a Restore Point:
Click"Next"in the System Restore window.
Select a restore point from the list.You can also click"Scan for affected programs"to see what changes will occur.
Click"Next"and then"Finish."
Confirm and Restart:
Confirm that you want to proceed with the restoration.
Your computer will restart and begin the restoration process.
Once completed,your system will be restored to the chosen point.
2.Reset This PC
Reset This PC allows you to reinstall Windows,either keeping your files or removing everything.This can resolve more serious issues and give you a fresh start.
Steps to Perform a Reset:
Open Reset This PC:
Press Windows+I to open the Settings app.
Navigate to Update&Security>Recovery.
Under"Reset this PC,"click"Get started."
Choose an Option:
Choose either"Keep my files"or"Remove everything":
Keep my files:Reinstalls Windows without removing your personal files.
Remove everything:Reinstalls Windows and removes all your personal files,settings,and apps.
Follow the Prompts:
Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the reset.
Your computer will restart and begin the reset process.
Once completed,your system will be reset according to your chosen option.
3.Using Recovery Media
If your system is unable to boot,you can use recovery media(USB or DVD)to perform a recovery.
Steps to Use Recovery Media:
Create Recovery Media(if not already created):
Insert a USB drive(at least 8GB)into a working computer.
Open the Control Panel and search for"Recovery."
Select"Create a recovery drive"and follow the prompts to create the recovery media.
Boot from Recovery Media:
Insert the recovery media into the non-working computer.
Restart the computer and boot from the USB drive(you may need to change the boot order in the BIOS/UEFI settings).
Access Recovery Options:
Choose your keyboard layout and language preferences.
Select"Troubleshoot"from the options menu.
Choose a Recovery Option:
Reset This PC:Choose this to reset your computer with the options mentioned above.
System Restore:Choose this to restore your computer to a previous point in time.
System Image Recovery:If you have a system image backup,you can use this option to restore your computer from that image.
4.Advanced Startup Options
Windows 10 includes advanced startup options for troubleshooting and recovery.
Steps to Access Advanced Startup Options:
Open Advanced Startup:
Press Windows+I to open the Settings app.
Navigate to Update&Security>Recovery.
Under"Advanced startup,"click"Restart now."
Choose an Option:
After your computer restarts,you'll see a blue screen with several options.
Select"Troubleshoot"to access recovery and advanced options.
Use the Available Tools:
System Restore:Restore your computer to a previous point in time.
Startup Repair:Fix issues that prevent Windows from starting.
Command Prompt:Access the command line for advanced troubleshooting.
Uninstall Updates:Remove recent updates that may be causing problems.
Backup Before Performing Recovery
Before performing any recovery action,it's crucial to back up your important data to prevent data loss.
Steps to Backup Data:
Use File History:
Connect an external drive.
Go to Settings>Update&Security>Backup.
Select"Add a drive"and choose your external drive.
Turn on"Automatically back up my files"and configure the backup settings.
Manually Copy Files:
Connect an external drive.
Open File Explorer and navigate to your important files and folders.
Copy and paste them to the external drive.
Performing a system recovery on Windows 10 can resolve a wide range of issues and restore your computer to a functional state.Whether using System Restore,Reset This PC,or recovery media,each method offers a different level of restoration based on your needs.Always remember to back up your data before initiating any recovery process to safeguard your important files.
By following these steps,you can ensure a smooth recovery process and get your system back up and running efficiently.
