If you are trying to fix persistent issues, preparing to sell your device, or simply seeking a fresh start, resetting one of the things you may need to do is resetting your Microsoft Surface Pro. Well, if you don’t know how to go about it, you are at the right place. Let’s take a look at how to reset your Surface Pro, using Windows Settings, the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE), and how you can reset without a password
Preparing for the Reset.
1. Backup Your Data
A factory reset wipes all personal files, apps, and settings from your device. To avoid losing important data:
- Use OneDrive or Cloud Storage: Sync your files to OneDrive or another cloud service to ensure they’re accessible after the reset.
- External Storage: Transfer critical files to an external hard drive or USB stick for added security.
- Backup System Files: If possible, create a recovery drive or system image as an additional safeguard.
2. Charge Your Device
Ensure your Surface Pro is fully charged or connected to a power source during the reset process. A sudden power loss could interrupt the reset and potentially damage the system.
3. Disconnect Peripherals
Remove any unnecessary external devices, such as USB drives or external monitors, to prevent interference during the reset process.
4. Note Down Login Credentials
If you plan to keep your files during the reset, ensure you remember your Microsoft account login details. These will be required to access your device after the reset.
By taking these preparatory steps, you’ll minimize risks and make the factory reset process as seamless as possible.
How to Reset Surface Pro on Windows 11
Resetting your Surface Pro through Windows Settings is the simplest way to restore the device to its factory defaults. This method is ideal if your device can boot normally and you have access to Windows 11. Follow these steps:
1. Press Win + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
2. In the System section (which opens by default), scroll down and click Recovery.
3. Under the Recovery options section, locate Reset this PC and click the Reset PC button.
4. You will be prompted to select one of two options:
- Keep my files: Retains your personal files while removing apps and settings.
- Remove everything: Deletes all files, apps, and settings for a complete factory reset.
5. Choose the appropriate option based on your needs.
6. Next, decide how you want to reinstall Windows:
- Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft servers, ensuring the latest version is installed. This requires an active internet connection.
- Local reinstall: Uses the recovery image stored on your device for faster installation. If your recovery image is corrupted, this option may not work properly.
6. After making your selections, follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your choices and start the reset process.
7. The reset process can take up to a few hours depending on your selections and storage speed. Once completed:
- If you choose “Remove everything,” you’ll see the first-time setup screen for a fresh start.
- If you choose “Keep my files,” you’ll be taken back to the sign-in screen for your account.
How to Reset Surface Pro on Windows 11
Resetting your Surface Pro through Windows Settings is a straightforward process for Windows 10 users. This method is ideal if your device boots normally and you have access to the operating system. Follow these steps:
1. Press Win + I on your keyboard to open the Settings app.
2. In the Settings window, click Update & Security.
3. From the left-hand menu, select Recovery.
4. Under the Reset this PC section, click Get Started.
5. You will be presented with two options:
- Keep my files: Retains your personal files but removes apps and settings.
- Remove everything: Deletes all files, apps, and settings for a complete factory reset.
Select the option that best suits your needs.
6. Next, choose how you want to reinstall Windows:
- Cloud download: Downloads a fresh copy of Windows from Microsoft servers, ensuring the latest version is installed. This requires an active internet connection.
- Local reinstall: Uses the recovery image stored on your device for a faster installation.
7. Review your selections and click Next. If you chose “Remove everything,” you may also see additional options, such as:
- Clean the drive: Overwrites data with empty space, making it harder to recover files (ideal for selling or gifting the device).
8. The reset process can take up to a few hours depending on your selections and storage speed. Once completed:
- If you choose “Remove everything,” you’ll see the first-time setup screen for a fresh start.
- If you choose “Keep my files,” you’ll be taken back to the sign-in screen for your account.
How to Reset Surface Pro Without Password
If you’ve forgotten your password or are locked out of your Surface Pro, you can still perform a factory reset without logging in. This method uses the login screen and recovery options to reset the device. Follow these steps:
1. Turn on your Surface Pro and wait for the login screen to appear.
Click the Power icon located in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
2. Press and hold the Shift key on your keyboard, then click Restart.
Tip: If you don’t have a physical keyboard, use the On-Screen Keyboard by clicking the Ease of Access icon on the login screen.
3. After restarting, your Surface Pro will boot into Recovery Mode. From the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot.
4. In the Troubleshoot menu, click Reset this PC.
You’ll be prompted to choose between:
- Keep my files: Retains personal files but removes apps and settings (requires admin password).
- Remove everything: Deletes all files, apps, and settings for a complete reset (recommended if you don’t have access to credentials).
5. Select Remove everything, then choose one of these options:
- Just remove my files: A quick reset that deletes files without overwriting them (ideal for personal use).
- Fully clean the drive: Overwrites data for enhanced security (recommended if selling or gifting the device).
The factory reset process can take up to an hour depending on your selections and device speed. Once completed, your Surface Pro will restart and display the first-time setup screen
