How to Reset an Acer Computer with Windows 10 or Windows 11 Using Alt + F10

Last Updated on 24.07.2025 by DriverNew

If your Acer computer is not working properly or you want to start fresh, you can reset it to its factory settings. This will remove apps and settings and can even erase all your files if you choose. Acer includes a built-in way to reset your system by pressing the Alt + F10 keys when the computer is starting up. This works on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Follow these step-by-step instructions carefully.

Step 1: Turn off your computer completely

– Make sure your computer is off.

– If it is frozen or not responding, press and hold the power button for about 5 seconds until it shuts down.

Step 2: Turn the computer back on and press Alt + F10

– Press the power button to turn the computer on.

– As soon as you see the Acer logo on the screen, press and hold the Alt key, and at the same time, keep pressing the F10 key quickly several times.

– If done correctly, you will see a screen that says “Please wait” or a blue screen with recovery options.
Note: If nothing happens and the computer starts up normally, repeat the step again. Timing is important.

Step 3: Enter the recovery menu

– Once the recovery screen appears, you’ll see a menu titled “Choose an option.”

– Click on Troubleshoot.

Step 4: Begin the reset process

– On the next screen, click on Reset this PC.

– You will now see two choices:

– Keep my files – This removes apps and settings but keeps your personal files like documents and pictures.

– Remove everything – This deletes all your files, settings, and apps. Your computer will be like new.
If you’re giving the computer to someone else or want a fresh start, choose “Remove everything.”

Step 5 (Windows 11 only): Choose how to reinstall Windows

– On Windows 11, you may see another question:

– Cloud download – This downloads the latest version of Windows from the internet (requires a Wi-Fi or internet connection).

– Local reinstall – This uses the files already on your computer.
If your internet is fast and reliable, Cloud download is a good choice. If not, choose Local reinstall.

Step 6: Follow the on-screen instructions

– After you choose your options, click Next.

– The computer will prepare for the reset. This may take several minutes.

– It will restart one or more times during the process. Just wait and let it finish.

– When it’s done, Windows will be reinstalled and you’ll see the setup screen like when you first got the computer.

What if Alt + F10 doesn’t work?

– Make sure you’re pressing the keys at the right time (right after the Acer logo appears).

– If it still doesn’t work, the recovery files might be missing.

– In that case, try this instead:

– Turn on your computer normally.

– Click Start, then go to Settings > System > Recovery.

– Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC and follow the same steps as above.

Important information: Always back up your important files (like photos or school work) to a USB drive or cloud storage before doing a reset. Keep your computer plugged into power during the reset so it doesn’t shut off. This process will help fix many common issues and make your computer run like new.