How to do a Factory Reset on my Inspiron 15r 5537 Windows 8.1

Question

Hello, I want to reset my Inspiron 15R 5537 with windows 8.1, back to how it was when I first bought it a little over a year ago. I do not wish to backup my files. I want all my files erased and I will just start fresh. I want it to be restored to the Windows 8 when I first opened my package. What steps do I take? I keep getting mixed answers when I ask elsewhere or when I search for the information. I have some people telling me I need to use Dell's Backup & Restore Program or use the F8 method when re-booting and other people are telling me to use the option in my PC settings to reset my PC. My Inspiron did not come with any disks so I assume the factory image reset includes the Windows 8 that was on the computer when I bought it. Again, what steps do I take to set my PC like new? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks! Mandee P.S. I am not the most computer savvy person in the world so detailed instructions would probably be best.

ejn63 · Accepted Answer

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The instructions above will restore the system. Once that's done, if you did not do so ahead of time, use the same utility to make a bootable, recovery flash drive -- in case you need to restore the system if the hard drive fails.

MANDEEx88 · Answer

Can anyone help me? I'd like to do the reset tonight I am able. I need my PC for school so the sooner the better.  Thanks in advance.

ejn63 · Answer

It can be done with a set of DVD-R or DVD+R discs if the system has a DVD writer, but a dedicated, 16G or larger flash drive (now under $10) is a more reliable device.

MANDEEx88 · Answer

I don't have a flash drive. Is there another way to back it up?

jessy.holiday · Answer

i would make the recovery dvd's. then u can do the reset or whatever from them. i like DVD's better, harder to lose and not as fragile as a lil flash drive.

ejn63 · Answer

You can do that - you'll need a few of them.  They are in fact not as reliable as a flash drive - beyond needing more than one of them, they are more susceptible to damage than flash drives are.

MANDEEx88 · Answer

Will windows 8 still be on my computer after following the steps on the link you gave me?

For instance, when I go to reset my laptop to the way it was when I first took it out of the box, I will not be backing up any of my stuff because I already saved the files I want.

So what is the USB for? Can you explain that better?

Thank you.

MANDEEx88 · Answer

So my understanding is that before I do the factory reset, I should use Dell backup and restore and create a rescue disk and factory backup? Will a 32 GB USB be enough room for that?

I would like to finally do this by tomorrow. Can I just get a clear explanation of the recommended steps in order. For instance:

1. Create rescue drive and factory backup using Dell Backup & Recovery

2. Go into settings and complete the factory reset.

Am I right by these steps?

MANDEEx88 · Answer

My issue is solved. I know how to do it now.

Thanks for the people that did help. Dell, you are starting to make me think you are useless unless we pay out of the *** to keep our warranty on. Thank you for selling me a laptop that is literally, falling apart.

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