Reset Problem - Full Factory Reset with Personal data files removed Option not working

[paullewis323]

Hello all

I have a re-setting / recovery issue that I hope to get help resolving - I CAN NOT do a reset with personal info / data removed 

My laptop in question is a HP Pavilion Notebook - 15-ab254sa (ENERGY STAR) running Windows 10 64 bit software

I need to sell the laptop to help fund purchase of a newer laptop, so therefore want to reset to factory settings whilst removing all of my personal files / data

However, no matter what HP recovery / resetting method I try it will not work and i have the two following issues:-

1. Tried resetting the PC from within windows in:-  settings - update and security - recovery - reset this PC (from within windows) - this will not work just keeps sitting at 17 percent for 3/4 days and wont reset

So i tried the following

2. When I try to do a reset via the F11 function key I get the following error message - X:\sources\recovery\tools\HP\rita-tool\ and get thrown back to screen to restart windows

I am unable to use the the HP cloud recovery tool as my laptop is not supported by that tool

I have also downloaded the HP Recovery Manager Update 2.00 Rev.A 1.9 MB Jan 29, 2016 but when I try to install this SP74707 it will not install

Can anyone assist in me getting this laptop reset with all personal files removed please in order for me to sell it to fund a new one?

Can I download the Microsoft CLEAN INSTALL Windows 10 Follow option 1 here: https://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/2376-create-bootable-usb-flash-drive-install-windows-10-a.html

Or Will I need to purchase a new version of Windows 10 and do a HDD format and install Microsoft Windows 10  OS?

I would prefer NOT to as money is tight and would reduce my spend on a new unit

Kind regards

Paul

[CharlieItuah1]

Hi, @paullewis323 have you considered installing a fresh operating system using a Windows 10 Installation CD/DVD disk?

[paullewis323]

Hi there @CharlieItuah1

Where could I get such a disk from buddy?

Also, would the use of this be properly registered too as I am not using the HP Microsoft Windows Software registered/ assigned to this laptop?

Regards

Paul

[CharlieItuah1]

Hi, @paullewis323 see if you can get a copy of a Windows 10 installation CD/DVD from your local computer store. I am sure they will have good ones that are fully registered and licensed available.

[paullewis323]

So are you saying I have to buy another copy / license?

[CharlieItuah1]

Will buying a new copy/license be a burden on you?

[paullewis323]

yeah

[CharlieItuah1]

See if you can work with this then.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/software-download/windows10

[paullewis323]

Will it activate on this laptop?

The software installed on my laptop was OEM pre-installed and doesn't have a product key

So how do I activate windows 10 Home if I use the method you suggest above?

Thanks

[CharlieItuah1]

I think Microsoft has some activation keys you can purchase and there are some websites that should have free genuine activation keys.