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×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
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×InformationNeed Windows 11 help?Check documents on compatibility, FAQs, upgrade information and available fixes.
Windows 11 Support Center. -
- HP Community
- Notebooks
- Notebook Operating System and Recovery
- Factory restore

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03-09-2020 10:34 PM
I bought this laptop from a friend and they forgot the windows password. So how do I factory restore this computer.. when I power off and then power back on and then tap f11 it doesn't give me any restore options . When I try to repair it, it ask for the password to restore. How do I wipe it clean?
03-10-2020 12:23 AM
Hello @Romisworld01
- F11 option will not work if the recovery partition is missing or corrupted.
- If this PC came with Windows Vista, it is not recommended to use it or even try to restore it - it is old OS which is not supported by its vendor and is also considered obsolete and not secure anymore for usage.
If you want to use the PC and if its hardware is in good health status, you should install an operating system which is up-to-date and supported, like Linux-based one or MS Windows 10
In the instructions below you can see instructions how to install Windows 10
Eventually, you may need to purchase a license (license key) for Windows 10 from trusted online stores or trusted local tech stores.
Hope this helps! Let me know if any issues or questions
*** HP employee *** I express personal opinion only *** Joined the Community in 2013
03-10-2020 01:07 AM - edited 03-10-2020 01:08 AM
- This option is not recommended -> You may attempt to purchase Windows Vista recovery media from this 3rd party website - they might be able to send you a Vista disc(s) >> http://www.computersurgeons.com/
Use this discs kit to boot from them and restore the device.
- Recommended one -> You may purchase online Windows 10 license and Windows 10 USB drive - used to install W10
>> https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/b/windows?activetab=tab%3ashopwindows10
MS store may be able to send you USB installation media for W10. Boot from it to install Windows 10
Let me know if this helps
*** HP employee *** I express personal opinion only *** Joined the Community in 2013