How can I reinstall Windows? / Reinstallation / Installation / System restore / Recovery / Device does not start / I cannot see an image / Monitor remains black / Error message / Windows does not boot / Reset to factory settings
Are you having a problem with your Windows laptop or PC? In the vast majority of cases, this is not a technical hardware defect, but merely problems with the Windows operating system, software programmes and apps incorrectly configured by the user, errors with updates or incorrect settings.
Tip: For all problems with your Windows laptop or PC computer, please first follow the instructions below step by step. In our experience, this can help you resolve the error quickly and easily.
• Perform a device reset:
If the laptop, Windows tablet or computer PC no longer starts, meaning that the screen remains "black", please do the following:
1. Connect the device to the mains via the power supply unit or charger and check that all plugs are firmly connected to one another. On many devices, a charging indicator on the device will then be visible in orange or green. If you are using a multiple socket, it must be switched on.
2. Only if it is a PC, and if there is a switch/button on the power supply unit at the back of the PC, press it or make sure that it is switched on.
3. Only if it is a laptop or tablet, wait until the battery is fully charged after several hours.
4. Then press and hold the power button for 10 seconds and release it, then wait 5 seconds, and then briefly press the power button for 1 second.
• Reset Windows to factory settings:
Good to know: Windows is already pre-installed. For economic and ecological reasons, manufacturers now generally no longer include DVD or CD media. Together with your new device, you receive a fully pre-installed Windows operating system. The licence key for Microsoft Windows is securely stored digitally on the device (BIOS, UEFI, Windows system). It is not possible to read out the Windows key. However, this is not necessary either, as this device does not ask the user for a key. The user only needs to switch it on and can use the device.
All software problems can be resolved using the Windows repair functions. All options for troubleshooting and reinstalling are available directly in the Windows system. Using the Windows function "Refresh" or "Reset this PC", it is possible to restore the Windows system to a working state. We are happy to provide you with a link to Microsoft's instructions for this:
-Windows 11 (please click here)
-Windows 10 (please click here)
To reinstall Windows alternatively, please do the following:
1. Create a backup, if this is still possible
2. Switch the device off completely
3. Switch the device on and immediately after switching it on, press the F8 key (press it again every 2–3 seconds)
4. In the following menu, use the arrow keys to select "Repair your computer"
5. Select the appropriate keyboard layout
6. Confirm the dialogue with your password (if a password has been set)
7. Select "Reinstall Windows"
• Reinstall Windows using installation media:
If none of the previous options work, you can alternatively create installation media to reinstall Windows:
-Windows 11 (please click here)
-Windows 10 (please click here)
Click on „Download the tool now“ there.
You can find the exact instructions on this page under „Using this tool to create installation media“.
Before installation using the installation media, please disconnect the device from the network / Wi-Fi / Internet. Only reconnect the device to the Internet after installation.
The respective manufacturer provides all the software and drivers required for a reinstallation for convenient download. In the event of a reinstallation, Windows is already activated for this device by Microsoft.