Jul 14, 2023 · Find the built-in wipe features within your operating system, or OS, with easy-to-follow steps. Steps vary slightly for different operating systems, so check yours first. For Windows 10 and 11, start with the recovery drive or disk management options.

Dec 30, 2022 · Before you resell, recycle, or donate an old laptop or desktop, learn how to wipe a computer clean and protect your personal data with this Consumer Reports guide.

May 27, 2024 · Do you want to give your computer a fresh start? Wiping everything is the way to go if you’re selling it or just want a thorough cleaning. In case you’re not sure how to do it, that’s what this guide is for. I’ll walk you through the steps to completely wipe Windows 10 and restore it to its factory settings.

Jan 31, 2025 · To wipe your drive in Windows 11, go to Settings > System > Recovery and click Reset PC. When asked what you want to erase, select Remove everything. Choose Local reinstall to reinstall Windows...

Aug 21, 2024 · If your computer is getting sluggish, it may be time for a clean start. Regularly wiping and reinstalling your operating system can keep your computer running smoothly for much longer than you would expect. You'll also want to wipe your computer if you plan on selling, gifting, or donating it.

Nov 15, 2022 · Here's how to wipe your computer, whether it is a Windows PC, Mac, or Chromebook. How you wipe your computer depends on what you plan to do with it afterward. If you are keeping it, you can...

Dec 18, 2024 · Before you sell, recycle, donate, or trash that laptop, you’re going to want to take a few simple steps to wipe all your data and protect yourself. Before we get started, though, I need to get...

Jan 14, 2025 · Wiping a computer refers to the process of erasing all data and programs from the computer’s hard drive, restoring it to its factory settings. This is necessary when you want to sell, donate, or dispose of your computer, as it ensures that all personal data, passwords, and sensitive information are completely removed.

Learn how to securely wipe a hard drive to ensure all of your personal data cannot be recovered.