Revive Your Microsoft Surface Go: A Comprehensive Guide on How to Reset It

Is your Microsoft Surface Go feeling sluggish? Are you experiencing unexpected errors or facing storage issues? A factory reset might be the solution you need. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to reset a Microsoft Surface Go, ensuring you can breathe new life into your device.

Why Reset Your Surface Go?

Before diving into the steps, let’s understand why you might need to reset your Surface Go. Here are some common reasons:

• Performance Issues: If your Surface Go is running slow, freezing, or crashing frequently, a reset can often resolve these issues.
• Software Glitches: A reset can fix software bugs or errors that might be causing problems.
• Selling or Giving Away Your Surface Go: Resetting your Surface Go ensures all your personal data is removed before you transfer ownership.
• Troubleshooting Problems: Resetting your Surface Go can help diagnose and fix underlying issues that may not be easily resolved through other methods.
• Installing a Clean Operating System: If you’re experiencing persistent problems or want a fresh start, a reset allows you to install a clean copy of Windows.

Preparing for the Reset

Before you start the reset process, take a few essential steps to ensure a smooth experience:
1. Backup Your Data: This is crucial! A factory reset will erase all data on your Surface Go, including files, photos, apps, and settings. Back up your important data using OneDrive, an external hard drive, or a USB flash drive.
2. Disconnect External Devices: Remove any external devices connected to your Surface Go, such as USB drives, printers, or external monitors.
3. Charge Your Surface Go: The reset process can take some time, so ensure your Surface Go is adequately charged.

Method 1: Resetting Through Settings

This method is the easiest and most convenient way to reset your Surface Go. Here’s how:
1. Open Settings: Click the Start button, then select the gear icon to open Settings.
2. Go to Update & Security: Navigate to “Update & Security” in the Settings menu.
3. Choose Recovery: Select “Recovery” from the left-hand menu.
4. Select “Reset this PC”: Under “Reset this PC,” click “Get started.”
5. Choose Your Reset Option: You have two options:

• Keep my files: This will remove apps and settings but keep your personal files.
• Remove everything: This will erase all data from your Surface Go.

6. Confirm and Reset: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process. This might take some time, so be patient.

Method 2: Resetting Through Advanced Startup Options

This method is useful if you can’t access the Windows interface or if you need to perform a more thorough reset. Follow these steps:
1. Access Advanced Startup Options:

• Option 1: Restart your Surface Go and press and hold the “Shift” key while clicking “Restart.”
• Option 2: Turn off your Surface Go, then press and hold the volume-up button while pressing the power button.

2. Choose Troubleshoot: Select “Troubleshoot” from the advanced startup options menu.
3. Select Reset This PC: Choose “Reset this PC” from the Troubleshoot menu.
4. Follow On-Screen Instructions: The rest of the process is similar to Method 1. Select your desired reset option and follow the on-screen prompts.

What Happens During the Reset Process?

The reset process will:

• Erase all data: This includes files, photos, apps, and settings.
• Reinstall Windows: It will install a fresh copy of Windows, restoring your Surface Go to its original factory state.
• Remove all software: Any apps you’ve installed will be removed.

After the Reset

Once the reset is complete, your Surface Go will restart with a fresh installation of Windows. You’ll need to:

• Set up your Surface Go: This includes choosing your language, region, and network connection.
• Sign in to your Microsoft account: This will restore your settings and apps that are linked to your account.
• Download and install apps: Reinstall any apps you need from the Microsoft Store.

Important Notes

• Data Recovery: While the reset process erases all data, it’s possible to recover some data using data recovery software. However, this is not guaranteed and can be a complex process.
• Warranty: Resetting your Surface Go will not affect your warranty.
• Backups: Always back up your data before performing a factory reset.

Resetting Your Surface Go: A Final Thought

Resetting your Microsoft Surface Go can be a great way to resolve issues, get a fresh start, or prepare your device for a new owner. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure a smooth and successful reset experience.

Popular Questions

Q: Will I lose all my data if I reset my Surface Go?
A: Yes, a factory reset will erase all data on your Surface Go, including files, photos, apps, and settings. It’s crucial to back up your important data before resetting your device.
Q: Can I reset my Surface Go without losing my files?
A: Yes, you can choose the “Keep my files” option during the reset process. This will remove apps and settings but keep your personal files.
Q: What if I forget my password after resetting my Surface Go?
A: If you forget your password, you’ll need to use a Microsoft account recovery tool or contact Microsoft support for assistance.
Q: How long does it take to reset a Surface Go?
A: The reset process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the size of your hard drive and the number of files being erased.
Q: Can I reset my Surface Go if it won’t turn on?
A: If your Surface Go won’t turn on, you can try resetting it through the Advanced Startup Options menu by following the instructions in Method 2.