Reloading Windows on an HP desktop often refers to using the built-in "Reset this PC" feature. This function allows you to reinstall the Windows operating system while giving you the option to keep your personal files or remove everything, essentially refreshing your system.
The process can be initiated from within the Windows environment or from outside of it, which is useful if Windows is not starting correctly.
Reloading Windows Using "Reset this PC"
The "Reset this PC" feature is a convenient way to address performance issues or prepare your computer for a fresh start without needing separate installation media in many cases. It reinstalls Windows automatically.
Here are the two primary ways to access this function on your HP desktop, based on whether you can currently boot into Windows or not.
Method 1: From Inside Windows
If your HP desktop is running Windows and you can access the desktop, you can start the reload process directly from the Settings app.
Follow these steps:
- Click the Start button.
- Click on Settings (the gear icon).
- Select Update & security.
- In the left-hand menu, click Recovery.
- Under the "Reset this PC" section, click Get started.
After clicking "Get started," you will be presented with options to keep your files or remove everything. Choose the option that suits your needs and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset.
Method 2: From Outside Windows (During Startup)
If you are unable to boot into Windows, you can access the recovery options, including "Reset this PC," by interrupting the startup process.
Use the following steps:
- Restart your HP desktop.
- While the computer is restarting (usually after the HP logo appears but before Windows attempts to load), press the f11 key repeatedly.
- This should bring you to a recovery or troubleshoot screen.
- Click Troubleshoot.
- Click Reset this PC.
Similar to the method above, you will then be prompted to choose whether to keep your files or remove everything before proceeding with the Windows reload.
Summary Table: Accessing Reset This PC
| Scenario | Steps | Key Access Point |
|---|---|---|
| Inside Windows | Start > Settings > Update & security > Recovery > Reset this PC > Get started | Settings App |
| Outside Windows | Restart PC > Press f11 repeatedly > Troubleshoot > Reset this PC | f11 Key at Startup |
Choosing the right method depends solely on whether or not you can successfully boot into your current Windows installation. Both methods lead to the same "Reset this PC" utility.
