But as long as you follow along closely, it’s a process easy enough for anyone to complete.

Windows 7 is no longer supported by Microsoft.

For fresh security updates and new features, we recommend upgrading toWindows 11orWindows 10.

Install Windows window when booting from the Windows 7 Setup disc

Clean Install Windows 7 From a Setup Disc

One reset technique uses a Windows 7 setup disc.

This method will erase everything and reinstall Windows from scratch.

No customizations or personal files from the current installation will be saved during a clean installation.

Windows 7 system image restore option

See ourHow to Clean Install Windows 7tutorial for a full walkthrough.

See HP’sPerforming an HP System Recovery in Windows 7video for more on how to do this.

you’ve got the option to also manually reinstall Windows with the Dell Operating System Installation Disc.

This is the same thing as a clean install, mentioned above.

Other manufacturers have similar factory reset methods, like theToshiba Recovery WizardandAcer’s factory default disc.

No installation disc necessary!

How-To Geek has atutorial on resetting Windows 7 this way.

What Does a Windows 7 Factory Reset Do?

Returning the OS to the way it was when it left thefactoryis where this term gets its name.

Resetting deletes everything but those default items.

All your personal files will be erased and any and all programs you installed will be deleted.

However, depending on the method you use, resetting might also delete Windows updates anddrivers.

Or, if you reset Windows with a backup, it couldrestoreold files and programs.

Be sure to read carefully to learn what the reset option you choose will and will not restore.