What is the easiest way to reset a computer to factory settings?

This is for a "Dell" computer but i would imagine they are all similar :-

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Step 1: Backup important files & data.

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Step 2: Remove non-essential peripherals

Except for the monitor, keyboard, and mouse, remove all external peripherals including:

Note:

An external peripheral is a device that connects to a port on the front, side or back of the computer, like a printer or memory key.

• Scanner

• Printer

• Modem or Network cables

• Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

• USB flash drive or other external Hard Drive

• Any other external devices (e.g., USB-attached devices)

• Remove the computer from the docking station, if you are using one.

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Step 3: Restore the computer's software to original condition.

Using Dell Factory Image Restore in Windows 7

Notice:

Restoring the original factory image erases ALL existing data. This includes files, folders, programs, drivers, E-mails, photos. Before performing a PC Restore, back up all personal files. If you do not back up your personal files, the data will be lost.

1 Turn on the computer.

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2 As the computer starts, press <F8> on the keyboard until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears on the screen.

Note:

You must press <F8> before the Windows logo appears on the screen. If you press <F8> after the Windows logo appears on the screen, the Advanced Boot Options menu will not appear on the screen. If you do not see the Advanced Boot Options menu, restart the computer, and then repeat this step until you see the menu on the screen.

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3 Press the <Down Arrow> on the keyboard to select Repair Your Computer on the Advanced Boot Options menu, and then press <Enter>.

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4 Specify the language settings that you want, and then click Next.

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5 Log in as a user who has administrative credentials, and then click OK.

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6 Click Dell Factory Image Restore.

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7 In the Dell Factory Image Restore window, click Next.

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8 Click to select the Yes, reformat hard drive and restore system software to factory condition check box.

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9 Click Next.

The computer is restored to the default factory configuration.

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10 When the restore operation is completed, click Finish to restart the computer.

The software is now installed as it was when the computer was first received.

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Step 4: Restore your personal files and data from backups

If you have one of the popular brand computers there is usually a hidden partition on your boot drive that will allow you to return your computer to the way it was when you received it. In a Dell the keystrokes are typically <shift> <F11> if I remember right.

Be advised-this will delete all files on the computer that you have put there after you received your computer.