Windows 10: Reset laptop to factory with data delete option and now I'm locked out

I recently reset Windows 10 to factory settings with remove data option before recycle/donate. Now, when I boot it up, it still displays my name and avatar on the login screen, but now it wants a pin number or a challenge phrase to access the computer. I never set a pin number or challenge phrase, so have no way to log into this laptop. Since it still has my name and avatar associated with the log in page, I'm not confident it wiped out my data and now I can't get into it to see what data is there. I can't even use keyboard shortcuts. I'm completely locked out! It is an older HP Envy lap

:)

 

how do i reset a asus laptop to factory settings?

The process of resetting an Asus laptop to factory settings can vary depending on the model and operating system. However, here are the general steps you can follow:

1. Back up your important files and data to an external hard drive or cloud storage as resetting your laptop to factory settings will erase all data.
   
2. Press the "F9" key repeatedly while the Asus laptop is booting up. This will take you to the recovery menu.
   
3. Select "Restore factory settings" from the menu.
   
4. Follow the prompts to confirm the reset process.
   
5. Wait for the reset process to complete, which may take several minutes.
   
6. Once the reset is complete, your Asus laptop will be restored to its original factory settings.
   

 

factory reset

I suspect that option borked the installation, and so no other options can correct a corrupted system.

Got data on it you want? Create a Linux distro boot USB (Mint is good), and boot into that to recover your data to an external storage source

Download and create a Win 10 install boot USB and re-install. Make sure you delete EVERY partition, possible just before the copying of installation files starts.

(Come back if you want step by step help)

 

Factory Reset Win 7 (without disc)

Download an ISO of the Avira AV boot CD, burn it on your own computer, and then boot from that CD on your mom's computer and run a cleanup.

Seriously, you should just download a Windows disc and format the laptop. Best and easiest course of action.

"Information:
Many Toshiba laptops come with the factory software recovery image stored in a special (hidden) area on the hard disk. From this special hidden image, you can restore your computer to its factory-fresh software condition by following these steps:

To restore the original factory software image on your computer follow these steps:

• Make sure the computer is turned off ("Shut-down" from the Windows Start menu)
• Remove any peripherals such an external mouse, keyboard, monitor, USB flash drive etc.
• Make sure the AC Adapter is plugged in and working.
• Press and hold down the 0 (zero) key on the keyboard while powering on the computer. Release it when the recovery warning screen appears.
• If the recovery process offers a choice of Operating Systems, select the appropriate one for you.
• A warning screen appears, stating that when the recovery is executed all data will be deleted and rewritten.
• Click Yes to continue.
• When the Toshiba Recovery Wizard opens select "Recovery of Factory Software" or the appropriate option for your needs.
• Continue to follow the directions restarting as necessary.

Please note that the process may vary slightly from machine to machine, that you may be asked to insert disks (multi-disk packages) and that the process may take one to two hours to complete. The recovery process will require you to restart your computer several times.

As you use the recovery process you will have several options. One of these may be to create a custom size partition. Follow the directions on screen for this and other options as prompted. When in doubt, it's usually best to accept the default, or pre-selected option."

If you are incapable, or uncomfortable with following any of the recommendations on how to restore the laptop, then I recommend you take it to your local IT guy and ask him to do it for you. Sometimes the best of us have to visit a ripoff merchant to get something fixed, or even just tested...