Reset Dell Loaner Laptop to Factory Settings

Information on how to reset a loaner Dell laptop to factory settings and remove all your files, settings and login information.

Before you turn in your Dell loaner laptop back to the library you will want to reset it to factory so that your personal data is removed from the machine.

To reset a loaner Dell laptop to factory settings and remove all your files, settings and login information, follow these steps before you return the laptop to the library:

Note: This process formats the hard drive and removes all data. Be sure you have backed up your files before beginning this task. Once completed data can not be retrieved.

1. In the search bar next to the Windows icon on the task bar type "reset". Select Reset this PC (System Setting).
2. Under Reset this PC section of the window click Get Started.
3. At the Choose Option screen select Remove everything and click next.
4. How would you like to reinstall windows, select Local Reinstall and click next.
5. At the Additional settings screen select Change Settings.
   1. Change setting Clean Data to Yes and select Confirm button. 
   2. Current setting should read:
      • Remove apps and files, clean the drive
      • Reinstall windows from this device
   3. Click Next.
6. Ready to reset this PC? This screen warns you that you are removing your personal data and once it's been reset it can not be retrieved. Click Reset to start the process. Expect the computer to restart itself.
7. Towards the end of this process you will get a black screen with white writing that will ask you to hit F12 if you want to reset the TPM. Please click on the F12 key. 

Note: This process takes awhile but is crucial in removing your personal data from the machine before it is checked out to another student. 

Return the machine to the circulation desk at the CSUMB library in the original box. Do not place computers in the book return slot or leave them outside the building.