Unlock Your Surface Pro’s Full Potential with a Refreshing Factory Reset
What To Know
- If your Surface Pro is experiencing performance issues, software glitches, or other problems, a factory reset may be the solution you need.
- A factory reset erases all data from your device and reinstalls the operating system, effectively restoring it to its original state.
- Ensure the USB recovery drive is bootable and that your Surface Pro’s boot order is set to prioritize the USB drive.
If your Surface Pro is experiencing performance issues, software glitches, or other problems, a factory reset may be the solution you need. A factory reset erases all data from your device and reinstalls the operating system, effectively restoring it to its original state. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to surface pro factory reset.
Before You Begin
Before performing a factory reset, it’s crucial to back up all your important data. This includes documents, photos, videos, and any other files you don’t want to lose. You can use Microsoft OneDrive, an external hard drive, or another cloud storage service for backup.
Methods to Factory Reset Surface Pro
There are two primary methods for resetting your Surface Pro:
1. Using the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
1. Ensure your Surface Pro is turned off.
2. Press and hold the Volume Down button while pressing the Power button.
3. Release the Power button when the Surface logo appears, but continue holding the Volume Down button.
4. Release the Volume Down button when the WinRE menu appears.
5. Select “Troubleshoot” > “Reset this PC” > “Remove everything.”
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.
2. Using a USB Recovery Drive
1. Create a bootable USB recovery drive using the Microsoft Media Creation Tool.
2. Insert the USB recovery drive into your Surface Pro.
3. Turn on your Surface Pro and press the F12 key repeatedly during the boot process.
4. Select the USB recovery drive from the boot menu.
5. Choose “Troubleshoot” > “Reset this PC” > “Remove everything.”
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Reset failed with an error: Try using a different USB recovery drive or try the WinRE method instead.
- Surface Pro won’t boot from the USB recovery drive: Ensure the USB recovery drive is bootable and that your Surface Pro’s boot order is set to prioritize the USB drive.
- Data backup failed: If you’re unable to back up your data before the reset, you may lose it permanently. Consider using a data recovery service to retrieve your files.
What Happens After a Factory Reset?
- All data on your Surface Pro will be erased, including apps, settings, and personal files.
- The operating system will be reinstalled to its factory default state.
- Your Surface Pro will be restored to its original performance and functionality.
How to Reinstall Apps and Data After Reset
Once the factory reset is complete, you can reinstall your apps and restore your data from your backup.
1. Sign in to your Microsoft account and download the apps you need from the Microsoft Store.
2. Restore your backed-up data from OneDrive, your external hard drive, or your cloud storage service.
Final Note: Revitalizing Your Surface Pro with a Factory Reset
A factory reset can be a powerful tool for resolving issues with your Surface Pro. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively restore your device to its original condition and regain its optimal performance. Remember to back up your data before performing a reset to avoid any data loss.
