We understand the importance of your personal data and want to ensure you feel safe and confident when returning your PC to Rytech PNW. Follow this simple guide to securely erase your files and reset your Windows PC to factory settings.
⚠️ Important: Once you complete these steps, your personal files and apps will be permanently deleted. Please back up any important data before proceeding.
✅ Step 1: Back Up Your Important Files
Before wiping your PC, back up your data to ensure you don’t lose anything important.
How to Back Up:
- Use an external hard drive or USB flash drive.
- Or upload files to a cloud service (like Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, etc.)
Common items to back up:
- Documents, photos, videos
- Downloads and Desktop files
- Browser bookmarks
- Game saves or app-specific data
🔐 Step 2: Sign Out of Accounts
To avoid issues with software activation or security, sign out of key accounts.
Sign Out of:
-
Microsoft Account
→ Go to Settings > Accounts > Your info, and click Sign in with a local account instead. -
OneDrive
→ Right-click OneDrive icon > Settings > Account > Unlink this PC. -
iTunes (if installed)
→ Open iTunes > Account > Authorizations > Deauthorize This Computer. - Adobe, Dropbox, Steam, etc.
♻️ Step 3: Remove External Devices
Unplug all:
- USB drives
- External hard drives
- Printers
- Dongles
- SD cards
🔄 Step 4: Factory Reset Windows
This will remove all files, apps, and settings.
For Windows 10 / Windows 11:
- Click Start > Settings (⚙️ icon)
- Go to System > Recovery
- Under Recovery options, find Reset this PC and click Reset PC
- Choose Remove everything
- Select Local reinstall or Cloud download
(Cloud download is often more reliable but needs internet access) - When asked about cleaning the drive: Select Fully clean the drive for better data wiping
- Confirm and click Reset
- 💡 This process may take 30–90 minutes depending on your PC.
🔚 Step 5: Let the Reset Complete
- Your PC will restart several times.
- Once complete, you’ll see the initial Windows setup screen (“Hi there, let’s get a few basic things out of the way…”).
- At this point, power off the PC — it’s ready to return!
📦 Step 6: Repack and Return
Make sure to:
- Include all original accessories (charger, Wi-Fi, keyboard, etc.)
- Package the PC securely to prevent damage during transit or drop-off
- Attach your return authorization number, if provided
💬 Need Help?
If you’re unsure about any step, feel free to contact our support team at:
📧 rytechpnw@gmail.com
🌐 rytechpnw.com
We're here to make your return process as smooth and secure as possible!