How to factory reset windows 10 without password to new owner?

When preparing a Windows 10 PC for a new owner, you can factory reset it directly from the login screen without needing to know the password — no installation media or technical expertise required. This built-in recovery option is the simplest approach and works on most Windows 10 machines.

Step 1: On the login screen, click the Power icon (bottom right corner)

Step 2: Hold Shift and click Restart

Step 3: Once in the recovery menu, go to Troubleshoot → Reset this PC

Step 4: Select Remove everything

Step 5: Choose Cloud download (requires internet) or Local reinstall

Step 6: When prompted, select Remove files and clean the drive for a thorough wipe

Step 7: Click Reset and wait for the process to complete (can take 1–2 hours)

This method lets you fully factory reset Windows 10 without password by holding Shift while restarting to access the built-in recovery environment. Choosing "Remove everything" and "Clean the drive" ensures all personal data is wiped, leaving the PC in a fresh, out-of-box state ready for its new owner.