How to WIPE your hard drive and DELETE viruses from your PC!

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Sometimes, Windows is just too damaged to repair, no matter what you do. If you want to completely WIPE Windows and start over from scratch, watch this video, as I show you step-by-step how to do it! Enjoy!
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Thanks so much for stopping in and watching!

[@HeribertoMillan-p4o]

Brother when I tell you I’ve been up all night trying to factory reset my computer because I’m getting ready to sell it… it’s now 1am and I been doing this since 4pm… I finally found your page and this was the answer after the factory reset refused to work… I truly thank you and appreciate the time you take out to give us this help…

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Wow, thank you so much! I appreciate the support 👍

[@BigCrazieTJ]

I’ve been working on this for a good 4 days now.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

What is holding up the process?

[@bruisedbanana1700]

If you're getting your PC ready for sale, I would recommend a secure erase instead of this method. A secure erase completely overwrites your drive making all the content unrecoverable even with recovery tools. With this method although great, there may be a possibility that your files can be recoverable with the help of recovery tools.

[@DuckiesDad08]

I had some insane new malware. Network settings gone, Windows Defender fried, phantom program installed. I installed 4-6 programs as recommended, did 3 hours of reading and finally bit the bullet. This video saved me from taking it to a shop and burning a few hundred bucks. Thank you SO much. I liked, subbed, and turned on notifications.

[@kor2525]

I don't usually write any comments, but this video is incredible! Attention to detail, awesome pasing, excellent explanation and pretty cool tips along the way... It's just a well rounded awesome video with everything I was looking for. Thank you so much! Please keep helping people like me !

[@kennethsmith2952]

This guy is excellent on how he describes; with a slow understanding, on how to perform this task.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I appreciate that 👍

[@Lecker_Pizza]

I just wanna from the depth of my heart, thank you so so much ❤️🙌. You have saved me, I thought i had no options when i was locked out of my pc after it crashed and the system was corrupted. I was worried for days thinking about another expensive bill to fix or buy a new pc. You have saved me time, money, stress. I wish i could buy you a crate of beers or something. I literally cannot thank you enough. ❤❤❤

[@Lecker_Pizza]

You also educated me a lot and that is invaluable 🙌

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you. I appreciate that so much!!! There are links in every video if you want to support me chsnnal, but it's not necessary. Your comment warms my heart

[@PhilWane]

Really helpful guide - thank you. I knew the general principles and have done installs in the past but I wanted something tailored to recent versions of Windows (specifically 11). Nice clear walkthrough and some good tips and explanations as to why you might want certain options. I wanted to do a fresh install as about to give a laptop to a relative so wanted none of my Microsoft account details left on it (home or work). If nothing else it would lead to confusing messages for my relative. Bonus tip was the benefits of setting up a local account on the machine as they will have a Microsoft Account but I do not know the details. We can now hand over a working laptop and sort that later if that's what they want. Thanks again. Now subscribed to your channel.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, glad to have you on board 👍

[@DJUnknown-]

Thank you so much dude my laptop was running really slow due to viruses, malware, ect and nothing I tried work apart from this! Thank you so much!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

So glsd to hear it! 👍

[@atulbesra822]

Very useful. Some of the stuff that you have described were learnt by me the hard way on my own. Like for instance window installer unable to see the drives on the computer. The tip about how to continue installation without internet is something new for me and it is an invaluable tip.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@DavidOldenburg1]

I've always wiped but now you have malware that can survive a full wipe. Crazy

[@黒曜石108]

Wym how

[@gx8307]

@@黒曜石108its because of the cash file

[@blazeop6741]

then what to do?

[@gx8307]

@@blazeop6741 you have to buy bew ssd

[@JuneMikaels]

​@@黒曜石108There is no virus that does that unless its state sponsered and at that point it isnt your fault but Microsoft or your motherboard manufacturer

[@SAMZIRRA]

After watching the fourth video by this gentleman, I have decided that I trust him so much, I would join any cult he is leading, vote for any office that he’s running for, and probably let him borrow my car with my daughter. I trust him that much joking aside. This man has saved me hundreds probably hundreds of hours of grief and stress that I have been dealing with after building my first PC. I had several of those “God, where was this guy last month?!” moments. Thank you sir for the help!

[@sombratalol]

Sir thank you for this direct and simple process of explaining on how to properly do this its been hard trying to find a good video on how to help with the situation i felt hopeless for a while lol

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I'm happy it was helpful! You're welcome 😊

[@D.von.N]

Some of the screens here ring the bell. I also reinstalled my Win10 earlier this year, also HP. But instead of going this complicated way, I downloaded their recovery tool, it needed a usb larger than 32GB and followed instructions. I had my data backed up previously. It took me throughout the entire process and got my Win10 freshly installed, whether it needed some extra driver or not. The manufacturer's own recovery tool should have contained all that was needed. That was my experience.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed, that's usually the best option, especially since it's guaranteed to make it factory perfect. And usually the recovery creation option is preloaded so you can make your own disc. Sometimes you have to go to the vendor, and it's not always free. Glad you got it squared away 👍

[@thelitepredator]

Omg I love this man your videos are so oooo helpful ❤❤❤ I'm a technican I enjoy watching you explain computer technician tasks 😊

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you, I really appreciate that 👍

[@DosBear]

Mission accomplished but I went about it in a much different way. I did what you recommended with regards to deleting all the partitions including the recovery partition and then I had to do everything else through command prompt/DOS. Luckily I could select the repair option & was able to access the DOS box. ;) It wouldn't let me format otherwise. I was able to use the same method as I did in order to fix a flash drive earlier in the day. Diskpart. Then once formatted I had to change it to GPT through DOS as well and like magic I now have windows installed. I can't thank you enough for your help as much of your advice came in very handy. I will stick to using local account for now and avoid Microsoft as you recommend as well. So I have a wiped internal hard drive now and that's just fine by me. Thanks man.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Wow that's a lot, but thankfully you got it squared away! Good job 👍

[@rustynorley6885]

This works! Thank you! I'm not good with complicated stuff but this was as easy as pie! It has given me a sense that I can do almost anything related to computers with the right instructions and YOU gave me the right instructions. Thank you so much!!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! Glad to help!!!

[@rhondae8222]

I appreciate all of your videos/content. Thanks a lot. 👍 🙂

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

My pleasure!

[@johnpedersen8387]

Thanks for making this video for most Windows users. You told it a way so they can get a pc working again. ❤

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you. That was my goal, been meaning to make this one for a long time!

[@dalemihocik4732]

Hey, thanks so much for this tutorial. The laptop at my church was locked as the password, pin, and key code [48] number were lost. I thought I might take a shot at correcting that with some help from KZbin and you came through for me and my church. When I got to 17:12 in the video my keyboard stopped working but the way around that is to expand the CMD box to full screen. Again, thanks to you we saved the cost of a repair, and we really didn't have the funds to do so.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You just made my November! Thanks!!! ❤️

[@rhichkheedeinstein4535]

Bro thanks so much. You're the best. I've been struggling with a stupid virus. I even reset the machine but it didn't do any good. I'm very grateful

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

So glad to hear this!!! Rock on!

[@JoseyStranded]

Perfect timing for me. I was just about to do this.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Excellent! Glad it helped 👍

[@ChuckD-lu5mb]

Awesome Video Sir and thank you. Question, what brand of flash drive did you use in this video? Thank you Sir!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thanks for the compliment. Can't quite remember, but the link should be in the description 👍

[@ChuckD-lu5mb]

@@AskYourComputerGuyGracias Señor and Cheers From Sunny Warm Puerto Rico Island

[@BP-xp8tg]

Very very helpful thanks❤ 21:39

[@seniorbeatbox]

Most thorough video I’ve seen on wiping so far, thank you 🙏 one question, if I just want to wipe all the drives to recycle or donate my pc, I just delete everything listed in that Setup window? Cheers,

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

That's what I would do. Plus maybe connect the drive in an external enclosure (such as this: amzn.to/3N5HOTE) and run a scrubbing program on it. Probably overkill if there is nothing *ultra* private you want to disappear 👍

[@kashafkhan7402]

Thanks Man! You are only one i found soo helpful

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I appreciate that 👍

[@uajoku]

This is so helpful and handy. Thank you so much.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

My pleasure! Glsd you found it useful 👍

[@billymarkwell1105]

just found your channel, and subscribed, I've got an old dell running windows 7, I upgraded it to windows 10 and it's been running very slow, I'm thinking I may try your nuclear option, I don't have anything to lose, it's just a paper weight at the moment....Oh yea, thanks for the video. very nicely done.....

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You are welcome! Glad to have you aboard!

[@NGT_C7]

Many thanks for the videos you upload, I've had a lot of help from them. Re the recovery partition, is there any possibility this may / could also be or get infected. Thanks, best wishes for a great week.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Unfortunately, yes it can.

[@NGT_C7]

@@AskYourComputerGuy thanks 🙂

[@eyesuckle]

Also, if you're re-loading Windows from the recovery partition of a very old computer (like mine) that was running, say, an older version of Windows 10 or maybe even Windows 8 when you bought it, you will spend a very looooooong time after your computer is up and running again downloading and installing service packs and patches to this older windows version to bring it up to date. Whereas if you use the method described in this video, presumably your recovery stick will load a fairly current version of Windows 10 or 11 and you won't have to spend days bringing it back up to date.

[@RobBattram]

when I install windows on a new build I go through the set up to the point where the computer is up to date - then create a system image on an external SSD using the windows 7 system image utility which is still part of windows 11 - I usually make at least one copy of this system image on another drive - now if something causes my computer hard drive to fail or there is virus activity it is very easy to restore the image to the existing hard drive or another drive of the same capacity using the USB installation media selecting format drive. Regular system images after a 'windows 11 full virus scan' means a disaster can easily be recovered from. The procedure above means I nevert have to spend hours doing a fresh install of windows , updates and programs - on average my computer re-imaging takes around 10 to 15 minutes to get back all my stuff.

[@Bigbodybenzs]

You’re the man! Subscribed

[@kitrodriguez992]

Wasn't having too much issues. Nothing too major, but my reagentc was disabled and I couldn't enable it for whatever reason. Something probably happened to my Recovery Partition so I just shoved all my files in a 1TB HDD and clean installed Win11 with my ventoy drive. Obviously, everything works like new now. Having a lil USB with everything you might need is sweet. 🤘 EDIT: Also, a little bonus. My Windows 11 ISO is a little bit older so I didn't have to worry about MS account bypassiing. Made things easier for me. Updated everything when I got into Windows. ✌️

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Nice!

[@hughmartell7987]

Thanks very much for all your videos. I'm still using Windows 7- any suggestions for a repair?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Unfortunately you can't download a Windows installer anymore, but you can always try F8 at startup and try safe mode, hopefully see if that works and maybe troubleshoot from there

[@bk_panther_]

The RST drivers are possibly not included because Microsoft used the most basic/generic drivers for their operating system install. Keeping the base install basic is cleaner, more compatible and more stable. Manufacturers constantly come out with updates to their drivers, some even introduce bugs/instability/security flaws.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

👍

[@jmm9106]

thx for video, it worked for me:). whats the difference with this method you are showing and to do a windows reset?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

A Windows reset just replaces the Windows system files and *supposedly* will get you working again. It gives you the option to save or delete your personal files. It does not keep any programs you have installed after initial setup

[@Virgil-l5z]

Thank You for this Fantastic Video You Saved Me a ton of time and stress Thanks again ❤

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome!!!

[@TheCosta5000]

Hey my dude your videos are excellent. Finally someone explains how to do stuff for noobs like myself. Your vids are very easy to follow, your doing God's work😂.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I appreciate that so much!!! ❤️

[@johnhicks1586]

Very informative. Thanks for the video.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thanks, I appreciate that 👍

[@FalseWhite.]

Thank you so much King 👑🇿🇦

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I appreciate that, you're welcome! Glad it helped ❤️

[@Techkomsan]

Great Video sharing for Windows users.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Maddie-zv3gv77]

Very helpful video. Thank you!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome!

[@pineappleroad]

13:45 Just be aware, if you are greeted with the new setup UI (which is used by default on Windows 11 24H2 media), your USB drive will appear on that list Usually the drive at the top of the list is the one you want to wipe, but i did come across one machine where the 24H2 installer listed my USB first Also, i have a file that i can copy to a USB drive to bypass the Microsoft Account requirement automatically (and the file also skips the wireless setup screen automatically) If you are not connected to the internet, the file causes the installer to jump straight from the keyboard layout to the create a local account screen If you are connected to the internet, the file prevents the Microsoft account screen from being shown The file does not replace any of the windows files on the USB, however, the file must be present on the USB during the installation stage for it to be detected, and the installer will behave a bit differently with the file present (for example, it will not offer the option to perform an upgrade, nor will it offer the option to use the recovery function)

[@johnorchanian7676]

That's very interesting. Would you mind sharing the file? I am having a problem opening the cmd prompt at the "connect to a network" screen while loading windows 11.

[@pineappleroad]

@@johnorchanian7676 KZbin is known to be quite aggressive about links being posted, but if i can find a way to do it, i am happy to share that file

[@man.506]

Thank you

[@lukasaoo88]

There it goes just wiped 3 years of memories 😔

[@jmaros15]

@ 16:02 I wish you asked the viewers to disconect the internet cable from their PC because it automatically connected me to the internet!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I believe I actually mentioned that in the video 🤷‍♂️

[@UnaNeary]

Thank you so much for making this. I had done this once before, years and years ago, but could not remember every detail and nothing like a clean copy of Windows. Over time we collect so much junk that clogs up and slows down our system. Have you got a video about a good backup and restore? So that when we do a clean install of Windows, we can then restore our pictures documents and videos, to the new one. I use File History but it seems to encode all the back up files. How do we restore personal files to the new copy of Windows? That would be an awesome one if you have a link to that as well.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you for the comment! No, not exactly as you asked...but i did make a video on how to backup your personal files IF you can still access Windows. Looks like I need to make another video! Thanks for the idea 👍 The definitive guide to backing up your PC kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXW8fH-wopJ4g9E

[@frankwillimasugwu6938]

so just in case, u having issues accessing the command line like i did while trying to sort out the local account, here is what i did turn of ur pc (press and hold the power button until the screen go blank), try accessing the advanced settings go to configuration settings and locate the "hot key" section, turn it off, save changes and restart system, this should fix it, i fixed mine following these steps, don't forget to go back and turn it back on after succesfull installation

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Nice!

[@misterhoudi2824]

Bro is a pro 💪💪

[@bootstrapflyer]

I learned the hard way years back not having a Windows CD or DVD at hand with only having one PC in the house at that time. Since then, always had the media needed, just in case. Much easier nowadays with media creation like Rufus. My Windows installation is on a flash drive that stays inside my PC tacked to the base of the case, just in case I will ever need it, I know exactly where it is if ever needed. The main reason I disconnect from the interweb is because I do not like Windows installing the nvidia display drivers, I just end up having to use DDU to uninstall the nvidia drivers so I can install them manually for increased performance.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Perfect!

[@sendabenothmane2801]

First of all, thank you for this amazing video. I would like to ask if this process allows me to wipe only the C drive while keeping the D drive as it is?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Great question! 100% yes, just make sure you delete the correct partition! :)

[@sendabenothmane2801]

@@AskYourComputerGuy thank you so much

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@sendabenothmane2801 you bet 👍

[@jameswray2756]

Thanks for the info.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Absolutely! Glad you found it useful 👍

[@timetriad6199]

Forget the Library computers… Admin rights are required to run that tool… because it uses DISKPART to wipe and format the UFD (USB Flash Drive). Other than that, good video. 👍🏻 I run WDS with MDT from an ESXi Host VM.

[@johnmartinez269]

I just had this problem. Local library wouldn't let me DL because of admin issues

[@beachismyreligion6378]

Thank you for this! Do you have a work-around for the “newer computers” to bypass the connect to internet once installed? The F10 prompt wouldn’t work to pull up cmd prompt when on that screen- and was only allowed to move forward once I connected. Thanks!

[@teddyclifton9101]

I love the clarity of your explanation computer videos. I have a problem that I have not been able to find a credible solution to yet. I am wondering if you have ever addressed it in any of your you tube videos? I recently salvaged a large number of internal SATA HDDs from a dumpster. I have found about 5 of them (using either/or file explorer or disk management ) been able to remove any existing partitions and reformat and re partition them to my own needs. I am using an external dock to do this connected via a usb to a laptop with windows 11 on it. However I have an additional 6-8 large HDDs that do not show up in either disk management or file explorer. Many years ago I did recover HDDs that had these same issues but (i am 85 and memory is not my strong suit ) I have forgotten how i did it. I will return occasionally to this video and see if you have offered any suggestions. I don't intend to install any operating systems on them. I just want to be able to use them for external data storage. Thank you--Fred

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Interesting...usually when a drive isn't recognized, it's because of bad circuit boards. Even if the drive spins up, if the board is damaged, it can't communicate the drive info to the bios or system, thereby making it "not recognizable. Hope this helps :)

[@FogzOpGaming]

Sir I had my system compromised 2 years ago so i hard reseted everything wiped and clean I didn’t use it the for almost 1.5 year recently when i used my pc my antivirus showed something worm agent gen trying to change my registry what is it and why is it happening also reseting again would get rid of everything?

[@dontworryboutmeboi]

Thank you very much😊

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You're welcome! 👍

[@noelelnolo9642]

Hello and t/u for all the info u provide. I have a question, my Windows pc ‘s hd is almost full. I know I have 100s of duplicate photos and videos. I need a free, if possible, program that would scan the drive and delete all duplicates. Any thoughts? Thank u in advance.

[@katrinameckler2473]

Hi I haven't watched or used the information in this video yet. And new subscriber as well. I have a question. My computer has a virus, (I don't know what kind or name of it) , and I want to try to save the photos before I do a complete wipe. Any suggestions for how to save photos? The computer is a Dell Optiplex GX 1, running Windows XP . Thanks in advance for your response 🙂

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you for the sub! To answer your question, if it were me, there's two ways to do this. One is to remove the hard drive and install it in another machine or external drive reader as a secondary drive. Then you can access your files and copy them off. Replace the drive and reinstall Windows. The other option is to create a Hirens utility disc on an empty flash drive. You can boot to that disk and copy the files from within its Explorer-like interface. Once you have your files, you can safely restart the PC and reinstall Windows. Here's how to create the disc (the first is a Windows installer, then second is the Hirens). Hope it helps! [2024 MEGA update!] 2 USB boot drives EVERY Windows user should make before it's too late! kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppqWmZSLa81km9U

[@katrinameckler2473]

@@AskYourComputerGuy But what about the virus? If I save photos to another external drive, won't the virus be in the new external drive with the photos? I'm confused about the virus. Thank you for your help in advance.

[@littlebigt0e]

You should mention that some people might need to install a LAN driver from the mobo manufacturer after doing this. After doing this video, I had no Internet connection. Had to install the Lan driver via USB. It's a minor inconvenience but some people might not know to do this.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed. I mentioned the importance of backing up drivers in another video for this exact reason (EVERY Windows user should do THIS *right now*! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYizm4Kdds-latE), but you're right, I should have mentioned it again here. Usually a LAN driver is embedded in Windows, even a generic one. It's kind of rare for Windows to not give you ethernet capability. Thx for the tip 👍

[@JasonWestaway]

Hi Scott, Thanks so much for the video. A question about that is when you are at the Media Creation Tool For example, originally my laptop came with Windows 10. But is compatible with Windows 11. In that case, which Media Creation Tool is the safest to download? Thanks again and Take care.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I would create whichever OS came with the pc. If you are upgrade eligible, you can always do that later

[@JasonWestaway]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Huge thanks!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You bet 👍

[@williamgreenwood8945]

Hi - January 09 2025 If we completely delete our c drive and have a copy on an external hard drive - could we just simply install the external - COMPLETE BACK UP onto the computer and the computer will go back to this period when you copied everything to the external hard drive - thank you for your answer as we always watch all your videos

[@bobby4339]

I really like your Win reinstall video and your DATA backup videos. However, what about reinstalling applications? Is there a happy medium where we can get a “fresh” Win install (I.e., clean registry, etc) with Applications (maybe even selected) , then manually copy over data files from a USB/Data Drive/etc. Again, like your videos. Thank You.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

There used to be a prog that "backed up" installed programs, but it didn't work very well and didn't back up EVERY program. Wish someone would create one - I'd pay whatever they asked for it

[@k.chriscaldwell4141]

My PC’s hard drive melted down in the Spring of ‘22. All my data-SW, music, & files-is on other drives, SATA & USB. I have a Belarc file that tells me what I have installed and what versions. New drive in, reload OS, install critical SW, and back up in less than 6-hours. The key is having files on other drives and having backups.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed!

[@sanketnepal]

Hi there, I have successfully downloaded the windows thanks to you. But my, pc keeps on crashing after 30-40 seconds of booting. i thought i had the virus which is why is why i came here. But the problem persists. And I do not know what to do. If you have any solutions please let me know.

[@crosstradesmm2]

can anyone help me i have a msi gf63 thin 11sc-693 i got a 1tb ssd and i wanna put it in the laptop I have to usb with windows on it but when its at i think 12:00 from the video im stuck cause i dont know where to get my drivers from if someone cold walk me thorough it that would help so much

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Start here: forum-en.msi.com/index.php?threads/looking-for-the-intel-irst-driver.388171/

[@qeruko]

where do i go to restart my pc? do I restart it regularly or do i go through the settings? which one do i choose? Do i do cloud or local im so confused

[@aramcanin6918]

quick question: do you need the flash drive and windows media creation tool for each separate computer or can you use the same one for multiple computers? (assuming same OS). thanks

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

One per OS 👍

[@ronporter5609]

ty that worked great

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Awesome!

[@vchanpe1]

I used to partition my hard drive into a windows partition, program partition and data partition. However SSD are very cheap now so I maintain 3 separate SSDs. I wipe out my windows SSD and reload a clean windows. I only backup my bookmarks, my links from windows to my programs and other configuration settings.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Perfect :)

[@jasonwagner5571]

This saved my a$$! Thank you

[@RklssPOSEIDON]

Ive done everything you said, but im stuck at the "lets connect to a netwrok"... the only thing here is a button that says (install driver).. then it bring me to "This PC" and it says there no network to connect to? Did i do something wrong?

[@JacobGellner]

I am on the step where we have the partitions and for some reason whenever I click any buttons on it, it does nothing and all the buttons go gray. Can u help me?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Try again. Use tab key on keyboard to cycle through the options. You may have lost your mouse driver for some reason

[@JacobGellner]

@@AskYourComputerGuyI tried to use the tab key but whenever I click delete partition it doesn’t do anything and all of the buttons go gray also all of the partions show I can’t download them it on them

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@JacobGellner once the partition is selected, try the space bar to select and delete

[@charleshines5700]

There is a Powershell command that can backup the drivers. Reinstalling the missing ones is similar in a way to doing that thing with the rapid storage. Just make sure to put them on a drive you won't be wiping. I had a laptop that came with Windows 11 and I backed up the drivers this way from it before going to Windows 10 and they all worked. Windows 11 is just Windows 10 with more spyware and that annoying "click to show more" in all of the menus. In the early days of Windows 11 there was a registry fix that removed that annoying part of the GUI but Microsoft in their infinite stubbornness made it not work. They are just too stubborn to let you have a tolerable version of Windows!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You aren't wrong, but most novice users will have zero idea how to do that 🤷‍♂️

[@wirygamez1869]

Hi I’ve recently found your videos any videos for removing spyware? I believe my password storage was compromised on my laptop

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Give TronScript a try. Read the instructions and the pinned comment, but it's a pretty bad a55 script! Clean ANY malware or virus off ANY Windows computer with one FREE and SIMPLE program! kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5m6qIxugdRnl8k

[@infinity.8]

Sure this video will help more in windows 10 bcuz windows 11 its a waiting time 👍👍

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

👍

[@Renji801]

Does doing this method, keep your windows product key activated? Or is it recommended to deactivate your windows key before doing this process?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

It should, as long as you don't replace any hardware

[@rhondae8222]

This video is is similar to your video from a month ago titled: "Windows PC company locked? Here's how to get around it!" That video saved me a lot of money. Following your video (DIY) instructions, I was able to unlock and restart my Dell computer after using the USB to download and copy "create windows 10 installation media" and then uploading it to my then locked Dell (2020) windows 10 computer. However, I did not have any important documents/files on this computer; therefore, I chose to wipe it clean. Lol 😊

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Perfect, glad it helped!!!

[@Obratim]

What about license and activating? Will it just be ok, or will "windows not activated" message appear in a week, and i will need to reactivate it? This question is consurning me because i've never activaged windows 10, just updated from windows 8 years ago

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Activation is tied to the hardware once done. You will automatically be reactivated with a digital license. I've done it thousands of times, never an issue 👍

[@4tmorris]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Didn't work for me. Win 10 wouldn't activate again after reinstall. I gave up and switched to Linux.

[@shu-wenlu5581]

Hi Scott: 8/8/2023 My old computer with Windows 8 stopped working. After watching many of your videos, I (1) replaced it with a brand new Samsung SSD, (2) reinstalled Windows 8 and (3) upgraded successfully to Windows 10. I was very happy with it. 5/5/2024 After my computer acted up with the blue screen of death, I reinstalled (1) Windows 8 and (2) upgraded it to Windows 10 within 3 hours. 7/25/2024 I got another blue screen of death. I ran out of luck this time. Now I successfully reinstalled Windows 8 and CANNOT upgrade to Windows 10. Back in November 2023 I created a Windows 10 installation media USB and ran it 2 days ago. It asked for the Windows 8 product key and I did not have it when I wanted to keep my files and applications. I do have a Windows 8 product ID though. Will it work if I contact Lenovo tech support and get the product key? I wonder if the new Samsung SSD was defective. I am now also considering purchasing and replacing it with a new WD hard disk drive. If I do put in with a new WD hard disk drive and follow your instructions in this new KZbin, will it work? Thank you.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Yes I would try to get that key. That's likely why you can't upgrade to Windows 10, because Windows 8 isn't activated. And to your last question, yes it will work even with a different drive. Just have to activate Windows first

[@shu-wenlu5581]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Sorry I did not make myself clear earlier. My Windows 8 was activated when I ran Windows 10 installation media USB. Do you still think no Windows 8 product key was the culprit? I watched other KZbins on this topic and read there were folks still ran into trouble when ran Windows 10 installation media USB from Windows 8 because with Windows 8 product key CANNOT and will not work when Windows 10 installation media USB. Is that true? Thanks for your quick reply.

[@zander6048]

Hopefully what i say makes, i built my own pc and have the usb with the windows intsaller on already but since i built my pc im not sure where i should go to download the RST file that you suggest to so the installer can read the drives, i have an intel 12th gen cpu in an msi motherboard if that helps at all. Like i said hope i was able to relay what i was having trouble with

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You can get the RST drivers from your OEM website (HP, Dell, etc) by searching the support pages for drivers. Under storage, you'll see RST (rapid storage technology). Those drivers will need to be downloaded and extracted to a folder. That folder will need to put onto the flash drive (you can remove the drive during installation, copy the files and put it back in to continue. These drivers are also available on the Intel website as well 👍

[@zander6048]

@AskYourComputerGuy thx you for the speedy reply, much appreciated.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@zander6048 I appreciate YOU 👍

[@marionb6154]

Great information thank you. Is it possible to use this method to kill off windows 11 and get windows 10 back?Windows updated to 11 without my consent & screwed up my laptop 😢

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

100% yes. I'm working on that exact video for detailed walk-through, but yes ...wipe the existing installation and install Windows 10. Basically the exact same as the steps in this video, just different OS :)

[@marionb6154]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Thank you so much 🙏👍

[@feliciamoore2024]

when I go to the folder to load the drivers the drivers are not showing up in the folder at all so I can't select anything, and I followed your video step by step

[@emowoly]

I’m downgrading from 11 to 10 because my laptop is having a lot of bugs with windows 11 and this was really helpful thanks!! I’ve reset my computers before but I’ve never done a clean install from a usb and had no idea how to do it

[@Techkomsan]

This video really good

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

So glad you found it helpful!! Thanks!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you ❤️

[@pwnder1104]

I tried to download the rapid storage technology for my laptop but there are only a networking, chipset, audio, graphics, card reader, pointing device, Bluetooth, camera, software and utility, and ELAN fingerprint driver. I’m stumped by this and when I downloaded intels rapid storage technology file for any intel device It was only an exe file not a folder. I am confused and could really do with your skill and knowledge of this to help me soon. Thank you so much :)

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Try extracting the exe and see if extracts into a driver folder. If not, get the RST drivers from Intel's website directly and you should be fine 👍

[@pwnder1104]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Woah! Didn't know you're that quick! Thanks man! I will try this.. such a pain though haha

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@pwnder1104 I agree, but it's definitely worth the effort if you want your drives visible 👍

[@pwnder1104]

@@AskYourComputerGuy thanks man! It worked! Though it only worked after I did a command in the terminal for the exe file but the laptop is up and running :)

[@aryan84039]

So what if I want to format everything including data on another disk where windows is not installed on, can i do that?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

If you're accessing that drive as a secondary drive, you can wipe it by just right clicking the drive in File Explorer, choose format, and it will be wiped 👍

[@PC4USE1]

Back in the old days,when I was repairing and selling pcs as a side line,I used to do Format C:/mbr to completely eliminate a virus infection prior to reinstalling Windows. I haven't used Windows since Win 7 was deprecated so I don't know if that command is still valid.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

It is

[@alphabeta1094]

After a clean install of WIN 11 do i have to go back into the boot manager and select C drive, or can I just remove the USB flash drive and start up?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Nope,just remove the drive and reboot

[@kraze_fig]

Yo idk if youll reply but ive been having to do this method for over like 9 months now and every 1 or 2 weeks i get a blue screen of critical process died or memory management i took it to repair shop twice but it still kept on happening whatdo u think i should do as this happened not too long after i got my new pc like 3 4 weeks in. Before this happened i did a disk cleanup and goofy me wanted more fps in a game and the vid i watched told me to do that so id did and after a bluescreen, if that helps

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Find and download memtest86. Sounds like you have bad RAM

[@kraze_fig]

​@@AskYourComputerGuyAlright thanks ill try that soon!

[@xX-demigod-Xx]

thx

[@mafia_pup2882]

Hello, I keep getting the blue screen when im playing heavy games, i did some virus detection and removal theres like 300+ of infected files and 11 pups detected, but when i get the blue screen it says System Service Exception, dont know what else to do :(

[@BustedBattery]

I had the exact same problem. Just follow this tutorial, it worked for me.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I would 100% wipe and reload the Windows. Sounds like it's beyond typical "repair"

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Thank you for the support 👍

[@miserabledreamer]

Hello, sry if this is a stupid question, but can I put the driver for the intel rapid storage thing onto the windows boot usb before i start the whole process? I don't have another pc to switch to and add the file once I've already started the process... i also don't have another usb stick lol (btw ty for this video!)

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Absolutely!

[@miserabledreamer]

@@AskYourComputerGuyty so much!!!

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@miserabledreamer you bet 👍

[@liameyles1450]

thanks man your legend always wanted to know how to do this i hope i don't have to but i like to be peppered just in case i do have a questione i got a usb with a copy of windows on it which i got Frome the store i bought my pc from along with all the spare parts that where not needed with the build could i use to install windows in place of the media creation tool ?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Can't say for sure, as I can't validate whether that's a legitimate install disc. What I do know is the media creation tool DOES work every time. I would use that same flash drive and replace it with the MCT 👍

[@liameyles1450]

@@AskYourComputerGuy i do believe it is indeed an official copy of windows there was a additional fee for the copy of windows itself and it is in a Microsoft branded box but thank you for the reply it seems windows media is the way to go

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@liameyles1450 I think you might have gotten scammed. You shouldn't have to pay for a legit copy of Windows you already paid for. Tread lightly my friend 🤷‍♂️

[@liameyles1450]

@@AskYourComputerGuy sorry maybe i was a bit unclear the system was a pre built i selected the parts that would go into it along with the parts i chose the os that would be installed with it that's what i got along with all the spear parts when it was shipped

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@liameyles1450 👍

[@robesveldt]

What is the difference between a quick and a full format on a new hard drive? Which is best to use on a new hard drive.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

If you just want to format and start over, quick format is best. Full format wipes the entire drive, not just the boot sector area. Full format is best if reselling or disposing of a PC.

[@robesveldt]

@@AskYourComputerGuy Thanks for your response, but unfortunately that is not what I asked. The question was not about a used hard disk, but about a brand new hard disk that has never been used. What is the difference between a quick and a full format? I have no idea.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

@robesveldt regardless of what's on the drive, empty or not, a full format replaces all the sectors with zeroes. A quick fornat just basically "erases" any information about the drive and it's contents. Long story short, files are easier to recover with a Quick Fornat vs a full format. Does that make more sense?

[@richardjeffries466]

When are you releasing the video on DRIVER MAX?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

7 months ago: EVERY Windows user should do THIS *right now*! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYizm4Kdds-latE

[@crosstradesmm2]

hey so i’m very confused on the 10:00 cause i use the msi how would i get the rapid storage technology idk where to find it or how to do it

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

You have to first download the RST drivers and then extract them to either the Windows flash drive (preferably) or to another drive, then when prompted to load a driver, click browse and point to the RST driver files on the drive, as shown in the video. Once you do that, drivers will load, the drive will be visible, and how you can continue loading Windows to it 👍

[@colt5189]

Is there an easy way to say get factory drivers for say an HP laptop when doing a clean reinstall of Windows? I believe they came with some sort of driver disc you'd load, but when buying used, those discs usually aren't included. I had read of HP having a program you can download that would automatically install factory drivers? I had a computer in the past where the manufacturer sent me a replacement hard drive. And I took an image of that drive to save in case I need to do a fresh install as it came with the factory drivers and things already loaded.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I would 1000% use DriverMax, save your drivers to a flash drive and reload them after Windows reinstall. And it's free EVERY Windows user should do THIS *right now*! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYizm4Kdds-latE

[@trustabyss]

I second DriverMax

[@diablobloy2689]

Hello. Due to tons of problems on my pc I decided to reset it. I followed everything in your video, but when the partitions part came up I realised that I had some weird, small un-deletable partition after deleting all the other ones I could, except the recovery one. Now when I click next the process starts, goes up to a few % and then the screen goes black, my mouse and keyboard go black and i'm back on the windows settup at step one. I also realized that I can't boot on my drive since I deleted the partition (I guess that's why) so now my only solution is that i'll try to install windows on another ssd to see if it works and if somehow this is due to my main drive being corrupted or something like that. If this doesn't work i have no more solutions and can't use it anymore

[@diablobloy2689]

I tried one last time before trying the ssd method and I think there's some progress ? I'm not in the same window anymore, i'm on the black background with the downloading text on it, I have a bit of hope left

[@HazeOfWhearyWater]

Protip: As the man says, DO NOT CONNECT TO A NETWORK DURING THE INSTALL. Unless you want a Microsoft account jammed down your throat.

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Agreed

[@lunarforeva]

What do you mean ? Like do not connect to wifi ? How would I install it then ?

[@HazeOfWhearyWater]

@@lunarforeva Yes. Do not connect to WiFi or a wired internet connection while running the installation. Install Windows with the .ISO installation file or disk or thumb drive like normal. Afterwards you can connect to the internet.

[@davidinchcliff4560]

What crap so you need more thann1 flash drive for the drivers. What next, what crap

[@HazeOfWhearyWater]

@@davidinchcliff4560 No. You do not need two thumb drives. Just update over the internet -- post installation.

[@ddahstan6876]

You left the people with windows installation CDs in the dust... 😢😅 Still using my trusted 15 years old Lenovo T410, but it's time to give it a facelift! 😂

[@darrenjohnson1952]

Most computers come with pre installed win11 what i don't get is how do you reinstall win11 if you want to start your pc from scratch .. old days you got a disc but as ive not used PC for years as i do everything on tablets and phone im unsure 🤔 id of thought you got a installation when i bought the hp laptop 💻 so i always like to be able to reformat the SD drive should i need too

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Whatever version, 10 or 11, download the media creation tool and create that install disc and use that to wipe and reinstall whatever version you wish 👍

[@kennethclayton5733]

Maybe I missed something so what happened to the windows activation screen or by doing the process you just did you don't have to activate windows when you bypass Microsoft create a local account

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

Even if you use a Microsoft account, once the machine is activated, you should take have to re-activate. It should be automatically activated 👍

[@jmm9106]

if i wanna wipe my hard drive so that no one can recover the data i have had on it, is your method above enough or do i have to do something else?

[@AskYourComputerGuy]

I actually have a video on the drawing board about how to do this effectively so even NSA couldn't get your data 👍