Reset Windows 7 to CD without a CD

If you can no longer find the installation CD, we will show you how you can reset Windows 7 to factory settings without a CD.

Reset Windows 7: Don't forget to back up your data

If you still need your personal data and programs, you should never forget to save your data. Because resetting to factory settings also means that all your data is deleted and only the operating system remains installed.

Windows 7: Reset operating system without CD to factory settings

There are several ways to reinstall Windows 7. The following way is a little easier, but only works if the manufacturer has saved the Windows 7 installation on your PC. If this guide doesn't work, try the below.

1. Open the Control Panel and select the "System and Security" category.
2. Under "Backup and restore" you will find the item "Restore system settings on the computer".
3. Then click the "Advanced Recovery Methods" button below.
4. Select the "Reset computer to factory settings" option here.
5. Then follow the further instructions. These are usually self-explanatory.
6. Note: If you see the option "Reinstall Windows (Windows installation disc required)", you cannot carry out these instructions.

Instructions: Reset Windows 7 to factory settings

Since some manufacturers integrate their own recovery options in the PC or laptop, parts of these instructions can work differently for you. However, the first steps are decisive, which are usually always the same.

1. Restart your computer in recovery mode: While the computer is starting up, a message appears at the bottom of the screen that you can enter recovery mode by pressing an F key. You can usually do this with the F11 or F9 key.
2. You must press the button as quickly as possible. However, if the computer boots normally, you have to start over and press the button faster.
3. Tip: If both keys do not work, try other F keys. On some laptops, the Fn key at the bottom left of the keyboard must be pressed at the same time in order to use the F keys.
4. The computer then loads the recovery mode. Use the arrow keys to select the "Restoration" item.
5. Since you have already saved your data, you can now go to the next step with "Next".
6. There you will be asked to remove all plugs from the input devices such as keyboard and mouse from the computer. First confirm with "Next" and then remove the plugs.
7. Then the factory reset is started. This process can take several minutes.

Windows 7 is history: upgrade now!

Even if you reset Windows 7 to the factory settings, the system rarely comes close to the performance of the new Windows 10. Microsoft has also discontinued support for Windows 7. There is hardly a better time for an upgrade.

• As a Windows 7 user, you can switch to Windows 10 for free at any time. You do not need a CD for this either.
• If you don't feel like the whole upgrade stress, you can directly access a notebook with Windows 10. You can get powerful laptops for less than 500 euros, without having to set up anything.

Upgrade to Windows 10 now at low cost

Shop recommendation for Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 32 / 64Bit DE (FQC-08922)

€ 11.95

To the shop

€ 11.99

To the shop

€ 12.90

To the shop

Offered by BestCheck.de | Prices include VAT plus shipping

$config[ads_text5] not found

Compare other offers

If you did the reset on a laptop that you want to sell, we will show you in another practical tip what you need to consider when selling your laptop. If you need individual help to reset Windows 7 to factory settings, then contact the experts in the CHIP forum.