Can I reset Win 8.1 without using install media?

Hi!

I checked and I have 5 or 6 hidden partitions on my Win8 OEM laptop that are all named "Recovery Partition" and range from a few MBs to a few GBs.

I want to reset my computer (remove all programs and reinstall windows) because it became too slow and a bunch of apps just don't work after Win 8.1 update. Since I don't have any install media I want to be sure that it won't get stuck half way after deleting Windows and request an install disc or something.

So my question is: If I have recovery partitions on the hard drive, will the Reset option work without having to insert any external media? Will it delete everything and reinstall itself just using whatever is on these recovery partitions?

Honestly, you would be much better off - downloading your system drivers from the MFG's website..
Then download windows 8.1 - Create installation media for Windows 8.1 - Windows Help

Re-install windows as a clean 8.1 installation - that media tool will read the embedded product key..

A clean install will also wipe out all your factory install software..

But to answer your question - yes there is a way to factory reset from the recovery partition..

But you have to re-register the recovery image within windows 8.1.. Since when you updated 8 to 8.1 the link to the factory recovery was broken..

Assion said:

If I have recovery partitions on the hard drive, will the Reset option work without having to insert any external media?

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If you have an OEM PC that came with Windows 8 preinstalled and you updated to Windows 8.1, then when you refresh or reset Windows, it will reinstall Windows 8 from hard drive recovery partition (recovery image location) or from the recovery USB flash drive. Afterwards, you will need to update to Windows 8.1 via the Store again.

Note: Sometimes it happens that after doing the upgrade to Windows 8.1, refresh and reset does not work anymore. Note: But all should be okay if you receive the following screen (see screenshot below) when you select: PC settings > Update and recovery > Recovery > click on the Get started button under the Refresh your PC without affecting your files section.

Note the following text: Go to the Windows Store to reinstall Windows 8.1 and your apps.

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Maybe this---

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This is what I'm talking about. Will this resolve fully by itself without me having to insert any install media?

Yes, that option will remove all the files and re-write the windows partition..