What To Know
- If you’re unable to access the Windows Recovery Environment, you can use the Surface Recovery Image to erase your Surface Go.
- You can use the Microsoft Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive with the Surface Recovery Image.
- Resetting Windows reformats your internal storage and reinstalls the operating system, while reinstalling Windows completely wipes your device and installs a fresh copy of Windows.
When it comes to erasing data from your Surface Go device, there are several methods you can employ to ensure thorough and secure removal. Whether you’re selling, donating, or simply want to start fresh, this comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to erase Surface Go.
1. Resetting Your Surface Go
Option 1: Reset to Factory Settings
- Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
- Under Reset this PC, click **Get started**.
- Choose to Remove everything. This option will completely erase all your files, apps, and settings.
- Click Reset to confirm.
Option 2: Reset and Keep My Files
- Follow the same steps as Option 1, but choose Keep my files instead of **Remove everything**.
- This option will reset your Surface Go to factory settings while preserving your personal files.
2. Using the Surface Recovery Image
If you’re unable to access the Windows Recovery Environment, you can use the Surface Recovery Image to erase your Surface Go.
- Download the Surface Recovery Image from the Microsoft website.
- Create a bootable USB drive using the downloaded image.
- Boot your Surface Go from the USB drive.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to erase your device.
3. Manually Erasing Data from Partitions
Warning: This method is advanced and should only be attempted by experienced users.
- Use a third-party disk partitioning tool to create a bootable USB drive.
- Boot your Surface Go from the USB drive.
- Use the partitioning tool to delete all partitions on your Surface Go’s internal storage.
- Create a new partition and format it to reinstall Windows.
4. Using a Data Destruction Service
If you want to ensure complete and secure data removal, you can use a professional data destruction service.
- Contact a reputable data destruction company and inquire about their services.
- Send your Surface Go to the company for secure data erasure.
5. Physically Destroying Your Surface Go
Caution: This method is irreversible and should only be considered as a last resort.
- Remove the battery from your Surface Go.
- Break the internal storage drive into several pieces.
- Dispose of the pieces in different locations.
6. Reinstalling Windows
After erasing your Surface Go, you may need to reinstall Windows.
- Download the Windows 10 ISO file from the Microsoft website.
- Create a bootable USB drive using the downloaded ISO file.
- Boot your Surface Go from the USB drive.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows.
7. Tips for Secure Data Removal
- Use strong passwords and enable encryption on your Surface Go.
- Regularly back up your important data to an external hard drive or cloud storage.
- When erasing your device, use a secure data erasure tool or service to ensure complete removal.
- Consider using a physical destruction method for sensitive data.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Can I erase my Surface Go without losing my files?
A: Yes, you can reset your Surface Go and keep your files by choosing the “Reset and Keep My Files” option.
Q: How do I create a bootable USB drive for Surface Recovery?
A: You can use the Microsoft Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive with the Surface Recovery Image.
Q: What is the difference between resetting and reinstalling Windows?
A: Resetting Windows reformats your internal storage and reinstalls the operating system, while reinstalling Windows completely wipes your device and installs a fresh copy of Windows.
