Wiping a computer, also known as resetting or formatting, permanently erases all data and settings from the hard drive, returning it to its original factory state. This is a drastic step, so proceed with caution and only after careful consideration. Here’s the process, but remember:

Important points before proceeding:

• Back up crucial data: This is the most important step. Wiping your computer will erase everything, including documents, photos, music, applications, and settings. Ensure you have a complete backup of all your important data on an external hard drive or cloud storage before proceeding.
• Understand the consequences: Once wiped, the data is gone for good. Recovery is extremely difficult, if not impossible.
• Choose the appropriate method: Different methods exist for different operating systems and purposes. Choose the one that suits your needs.

Wiping methods based on operating system:

Windows:

Method 1: Using Settings (For Windows 10 and 11):

1. Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
2. Click “Reset this PC”.
3. Choose “Keep my files” (removes apps and settings, but keeps personal files) or “Remove everything” (wipes everything).
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt (For advanced users):

Disclaimer: This method requires more technical knowledge and is prone to errors. Proceed only if you’re comfortable with using the command prompt.

1. Back up your data.
2. Open the Command Prompt as administrator.
3. Type diskpart and press Enter.
4. Type list disk and press Enter to see a list of connected disks.
5. Identify the disk number of the drive you want to wipe (usually Disk 0).
6. Type select disk X (replace X with the disk number) and press Enter.
7. Type clean all and press Enter. This will permanently erase all data on the selected disk.
8. Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer.

Mac:

1. Back up your data.
2. Restart your Mac while holding down Command (⌘) and R keys simultaneously.
3. Release the keys when you see the Apple logo with a progress bar.
4. Select “Disk Utility” from the “macOS Utilities” window.
5. Choose the disk you want to erase from the sidebar.
6. Click the “Erase” button.
7. Choose a name for the erased disk and select the format (usually “Mac OS Extended (Journaled)”).
8. Click “Erase” to confirm.
9. Close Disk Utility and choose “Reinstall macOS” from the “macOS Utilities” window to reinstall the operating system.

Additional notes:

• These are general guidelines. Specific steps might vary slightly depending on the operating system version and other factors.
• Consider professional help if you’re unsure about any part of the process or have valuable data to recover.
• Wiping a computer is a permanent solution. Consider alternative solutions like reinstalling the operating system or repairing specific software issues before resorting to a complete wipe.

Remember, wiping your computer is a serious action. Make sure you understand the implications, have a backup, and choose the appropriate method before proceeding.