wont factory reset

[joejoe808]

My HP notebook will not factory reset. I go throught all the steps and then when it restarts it says could not reset.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @joejoe808 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

I'm really sorry you're running into this—when a factory reset fails like that, it can feel like you're stuck in a loop with no way out. But we can absolutely work through this together and get your HP notebook back on track.

Here’s a focused, step-by-step approach to resolve the issue:

1. Try Reset from Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)

If you're still able to boot into Windows or access recovery options:

• Press Windows + I to open Settings.
• Go to System > Recovery.
• Under Recovery options, click Reset this PC > Remove everything.
• Choose Local reinstall (not Cloud download).
• Follow the prompts.

If this fails again, move to the next method.

 

2. Use HP Cloud Recovery Tool (Cleanest Option)

This method reinstalls the original factory image using a USB drive:

• On another working PC, download the HP Cloud Recovery Tool:
  https://support.hp.com/za-en/document/ish_4511095-4511141-16
• Run the tool and enter your notebook’s product ID (found on the bottom of your laptop or in BIOS).
• Follow the prompts to create a recovery USB (at least 16 GB).
• Insert the USB into your HP notebook.
• Power off the notebook, then power it on and immediately press Esc, then F9 to open the Boot Menu.
• Select the USB drive and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

This method bypasses any corrupted local recovery partition and gives you a fresh start.

 

3. Run HP PC Hardware Diagnostics (Optional but Helpful)

To rule out hardware issues that might be interfering with reset:

• Turn off the notebook.
• Turn it back on and immediately press Esc, then F2 to open HP PC Hardware Diagnostics.
• Run the System Tests and Hard Drive Check.

More info: HP PC Hardware Diagnostics

 

4. If You Can Boot into Windows: Use HP Recovery Manager

Some HP notebooks include a built-in recovery tool:

• Search for HP Recovery Manager in the Start menu.
• If available, open it and select System Recovery > Remove everything and reinstall Windows.

If Recovery Manager isn’t installed or doesn’t launch, the Cloud Recovery Tool is your best bet.

Let me know how far you get with these steps—I’ll be right here to guide you through the next phase if anything doesn’t go as expected. 

You're doing the right thing by reaching out, and we’ll get your notebook refreshed and running smoothly again.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye