Using Windows Refresh for quick and easy recovery

When your tablet is not working properly and you need to regain system stability, the Windows Refresh option allows you to start fresh and keep what is important to you.

IMPORTANT: Refresh removes any traditional applications that were not originally installed on the system at the factory. Any Windows 8 apps that came preinstalled on your tablet and any that were purchased from the Windows Store will be saved.

NOTE: During Refresh, a list of removed traditional applications will be saved so that you have a quick way to see what you might need to reinstall. See Help and Support for instructions on reinstalling traditional applications. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.

NOTE: You may be prompted for your permission or password when using Refresh. See Help and Support for more information. From the Start screen, type h, and then select Help and Support.

To start Refresh:

1.On the Start screen, type recover, and then select Refresh your PC without affecting your files.

2.Select Get started, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Removing everything and reinstalling Windows

Sometimes you want to perform detailed reformatting of your tablet, or you want to remove personal information before you give away or recycle your tablet. The process described in this section provides a speedy, simple way to return the tablet to its original state. This option removes all personal data, apps, and settings from your tablet, and reinstalls Windows.

IMPORTANT: This option does not provide backups of your information. Before using this option, back up any personal information you wish to retain.

You can initiate this option from the Start screen:

1.On the Start screen, type recover, and then select Remove everything and reinstall Windows.

2.Select Get started, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Backing up data using File History

Recovery after a system failure is only as good as your most recent backup.

As you add photos, video, music, and other personal files, create a backup of your personal information. Windows File History can be set to regularly and automatically back up files from libraries, desktop, contacts, and favorites. If files are accidentally deleted from the hard drive and they can no longer be restored from the Recycle Bin, or if files become corrupted, you can restore the files that you backed up using File History. Restoring files is also useful if you ever choose to reset the tablet by reinstalling Windows.

File History is not enabled by default, so you must turn it on as follows:

On the Start screen, type file history, select File History, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

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