Is it easy to erase personal data, settings and files permanently when returning a Windows laptop for a refund?

modeonoff

Honorable
Jul 16, 2017
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Hello, I am considering to try out Lenovo laptop. In case it does not work out, is it easy to erase personal data, settings and files permanently when returning it for a refund? If so, how do I do that? Thanks
 
Solution
It depends on how much you put on the laptop and how thoroughly you want to delete it. There are options within windows to "Reset this PC" that claim to delete your data and programs, but if you're very sensitive you may worry about the data still leaving traces on the SSD or HDD and being recoverable. Fixing that requires a military grade multiple wipe, which would then force you to manual restore the PC before returning it.

If you feel ok with the Windows reset..then easy. If not, then not :)

inanition02

Distinguished
It depends on how much you put on the laptop and how thoroughly you want to delete it. There are options within windows to "Reset this PC" that claim to delete your data and programs, but if you're very sensitive you may worry about the data still leaving traces on the SSD or HDD and being recoverable. Fixing that requires a military grade multiple wipe, which would then force you to manual restore the PC before returning it.

If you feel ok with the Windows reset..then easy. If not, then not :)
 
Solution