3 Ways to Uninstall Windows
Introduction:
Windows is one of the most widely used operating systems, but there may come a time when you need to uninstall it. Whether you want to switch to another operating system, experiment with a different Windows version, or simply clean up your computer, removing Windows can be done in several ways.
In this article, we will explore three methods for uninstalling Windows from your computer: using the built-in Reset This PC utility, employing System Restore, and performing a clean installation. Keep in mind that uninstalling Windows can lead to data loss, so always backup your important files before proceeding.
Method 1: Using the Reset This PC Utility
- Open the Settings app by clicking on the gear icon in the Start menu or pressing Windows + I.
- Go to “Update & Security” and select “Recovery” from the left sidebar.
- Under “Reset this PC,” click “Get started.”
- Choose the “Remove everything” option and follow the prompts to completely remove Windows and any associated personal files.
Method 2: Using System Restore
If you have a System Restore point created before installing or upgrading to a new version of Windows, you can revert your system back to that point.
- Press Windows + S and type “Create a restore point”, then press Enter.
- In the System Properties window, click on the “System Restore” button.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and select an earlier restore point before you installed the current version of Windows.
- Confirm your choice and let System Restore work its magic.
Method 3: Performing a Clean Installation
You can also perform a clean installation of your desired operating system by formatting your hard drive and removing any traces of the existing Windows installation.
- Create a bootable USB drive with your preferred operating system (e.g., Linux distribution).
- Turn off your computer and plug the USB drive into an available port.
- Turn on your computer and access the BIOS or UEFI by pressing the appropriate key during startup (usually F2, F10, or Del, depending on your device).
- Set your boot order to prioritize the USB drive over your hard drive.
- Save and exit the BIOS or UEFI settings.
- Allow the new operating system to boot from the USB drive and follow its installation wizard, making sure to format your hard drive as part of the installation process.
Conclusion:
Uninstalling Windows can seem like a daunting process, but it can be done using various methods depending on your situation. Remember to backup important data before beginning any of these processes, as data loss is a possibility. Choose the method that best fits your needs and experience level to uninstall Windows safely and efficiently.