User's Manual

Table Of Contents

Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery

When your computer is not working properly and you need to regain system stability, the Windows Refresh

option allows you to start fresh and keep what is important to you.

IMPORTANT: Refresh removes any traditional applications that were not originally installed on the system

at the factory. Any Windows 8 apps that came preinstalled on your computer and any that were purchased

from the Windows Store will be saved.

NOTE: During Refresh, a list of removed traditional applications will be saved so that you have a quick way

to see what you might need to reinstall. See Help and Support for instructions on reinstalling traditional

applications. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.

NOTE: You may be prompted for your permission or password when using Refresh. See Help and Support

for more information. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.

To start Refresh:

IMPORTANT: For tablets, connect to the keyboard dock before beginning these steps (select models only).

1. From the Start screen, point to the upper-right or lower-right corner of the screen to reveal the charms.

2. Click Settings.

3. Click Change PC settings in the bottom-right corner of the screen, and then select Update & recovery

from the PC settings screen.

4. Select Recovery.

5. Under Refresh your PC without affecting your files, select Get started, and then follow the on-screen

instructions.

Removing everything and reinstalling Windows

Sometimes you want to perform detailed reformatting of your computer, or you want to remove personal

information before you give away or recycle your computer. The process described in this section provides a

speedy, simple way to return the computer to its original state. This option removes all personal data, apps,

and settings from your computer, and reinstalls Windows.

IMPORTANT: This option does not provide backups of your information. Before using this option, back up

any personal information you wish to retain.

You can initiate this option from the Start screen: