How do I fix Windows 8.1 not restarting my computer?

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This document is for HP PCs and tablets with Windows 8.

Windows 8 includes a feature called Reset your PC that permanently removes everything and reinstalls Windows. This is useful when you sell or recycle your computer or tablet, or when you want to return it to the way it was when it came from the factory.

When you reset your computer, everything is removed including all your personal files, personalization settings, and software apps. The only thing retained is the activation state. So if Windows was activated before the reset, Windows is activated after the reset.

This is what happens when you use Reset your PC:

• Your personal files such as libraries, personalization settings, user accounts, and desktop themes are permanently removed.

• The computer settings are returned to the defaults - the way it was when it came from the factory.

• Apps and other software that were installed on the computer when it came from the factory are reinstalled, and their settings are reset to the defaults.

• Software, apps, programs, and everything that you have installed or saved on the computer are permanently removed.

note:

If you are not using the latest version of Windows 8, some graphics and information in this document may vary. You can get the latest version from the Microsoft Store.

Resetting your computer from the Start screen

Use the Reset your PC feature to permanently remove all personal files, software you have installed, and then returns the computer to factory settings.

1. From the Start screen, type reset to open the Search charm, and then select Remove everything and reinstall Windows from the search results.

   

   The Update and recovery window opens.

2. Under Remove everything and reinstall Windows, click Get started.

   

3. On the Reset your PC screen, click Next.

   

4. If prompted, insert your Windows 8 installation disc or recovery media.

5. If your computer has more than one drive installed, you must select whether you want to reset only the drive where Windows is installed, or reset all drives. Make your selection, and then click Next.

6. When you remove your files, you can also clean the drive so that the files cannot be easily recovered. Select Just remove my files or Fully clean the drive, and then click Next.

   

7. On the Ready to reset your PC screen, click Reset.

     caution:

   Your personal files and settings are destroyed by performing this step. Make sure you have backed up all your important files on another drive before performing a reset. If you need help backing up your files, you might want to contact a professional data recovery service.

   

8. Wait while Windows resets your computer. This might take a while, and then your computer restarts.

   

Resetting your computer when Windows does not open to the Start screen

If Windows cannot open to the Start screen, you can still use Reset your PC to permanently remove all personal files, software you have installed, and then return the computer to factory settings. To do this, you need to open the Choose an option screen.

1. Start your computer and press the F11 key repeatedly.

   The Choose an option screen opens.

2. On the Choose an option screen, click Troubleshoot.

   

3. Click Reset your PC.

   

4. On the Reset your PC screen, click Next.

     caution:

   Your personal files and settings are destroyed by performing this step. Make sure you have backed up all your important files on another drive before performing a reset. If you need help backing up your files, you might want to contact a professional data recovery service.

   note:

   If an error displays stating Unable to reset your PC. A required drive partition is missing., resetting your PC does not work. Instead, recover your computer using the steps in Performing an HP System Recovery (Windows 8).

   

5. Read and respond to any screens that open.

6. Wait while Windows resets your computer. This might take awhile, and then your computer restarts.

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