Factory Reset, Restore, or Reinstall Microsoft Windows on a Dell computer

Table of contents

1. Restore the computer using SupportAssist OS Recovery
2. Restore the operating system using a Dell operating system recovery image
3. Alternate recovery and reinstall options
   • Windows 11 and Windows 10

Reinstalling the operating system can fix many software-related issues on the computer, whether it is running slow or infected with malware.

Restore the computer using SupportAssist OS Recovery

When your computer cannot boot into the operating system after repeated attempts, SupportAssist OS Recovery automatically starts on supported computers. This recovery environment helps diagnose hardware issues, backup files, repair the computer, or restore the computer to factory defaults.

Dell Technologies recommends using the SupportAssist OS Recovery on supported computers. Learn how to Restore your Computer Using SupportAssist OS Recovery.

Restore the operating system using a Dell operating system recovery image

To repair or restore your operating system to its original factory image, learn How to Download and Use the Dell Operating System Recovery Image in Microsoft Windows. Here, you can learn how to create a USB recovery media using any Windows computer.

Do not have a working Windows computer to create a USB recovery media? Learn How to Download and Use the Dell Operating System Recovery Image in Ubuntu or Linux.

Alternate recovery and reinstall options

Windows 11 or Windows 10

For a list of options for restoring or reinstalling Windows 11 or Windows 10, see the following articles:

• Reset or Reinstall Windows 11 on Your Dell Computer
• Reset or reinstall Windows 10 on your Dell computer

Windows 8.1

To manually reinstall Windows 8.1, see the Dell Knowledge Base article Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 Upgrade and Installation Instructions.

To perform a system restore in Windows 8.1, see the Dell Knowledge Base article How to Use System Restore in Microsoft Windows.

Windows 7

To learn about using computer restore points, resetting to factory settings, or manually installing Windows 7 on your Dell Computer, see the Dell Knowledge Base article, Restore, Factory Reset or Reinstall Windows 7 on your Dell Computer.

Recommended Articles

Here are some recommended articles for you.

• Windows Product Key Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• How to Use System Restore in Microsoft Windows

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