Wiping a (new) laptop to return

[22]

I bought Mrs 22 a new Laptop from Amazon. It came with Windows 11. She put on some apps and added Microsoft & Google accounts. Several of the keyboard buttons are noisy/sticking. Contacted support and then the manufacturer who said they can replace the keyboard with a ~2 week turnaround.

I said just reject it, order a new one and have it tomorrow - which I've done.

I just went to reset the laptop and the only option is wipe data and to re-install windows (cloud download or local reinstall). Windows was already present on the laptop so no idea what option to select (certainly don't have a key or code if required). Or maybe we can just uninstall the apps and un-link the accounts.

Any help appreciated.

[wyson]

If it were me, I would google factory reset or factory restore and the make and model of the laptop and follow the instructions. Some come with pre installed laptop management software with factory reset option.

That way you are sure, because it’s Amazon.

TBH, if purchased directly from a big manufacturer like Dell, I’d probably just send it back as is, they would have their own processes for nuking the laptop to sell on as a refurb or destroying etc. But who knows what Amazon, esp. a small bit reseller would do?

Edited by wyson on Friday 27th October 06:44

[jonsp]

Maybe follow the instructions here to re-install Windows which would obviously wipe your apps/data etc?

https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/window...

[sgrimshaw]

Start > Settings > System > Recovery.

Then, select Reset PC.

Choose: Remove everything

Then choose: Local reinstall (Fastest)

Choosing "Cloud download" is also fine, the keys etc are stored in the laptop.

[22]

Many thanks