Data question
Data question
Hello,
I need to return the pc later. On it I connect my external hard drive with my data files (such as txt, docx, xlsx, mp3, mp4, png, jpg, etc.) and use various software for opening or editing them (e.g., WPS, Microsoft Office/Word/Excel, Notepad++, media player, photos).
All my data files are saved on the external hard drive.
I also use the browser on the pc.
Before returning, what steps should I take to make sure my information and data aren’t left behind? (I hope to restore everything to its original state.)
I’m concerned that some software or Windows might automatically save or back up unsaved data in the C drive or elsewhere on the pc. For example, Notepad++ can create backup copies in the C drive.
https://stackoverflow.com/questions/4675...ious-files
https://stackoverflow.com/questions/2961...s-location
https://stackoverflow.com/questions/3343...-workspace
Also, please note: "I see that once I open a new file and write something in it, even if I don’t save it, the file will still open when I open Notepad++ again." – source
https://stackoverflow.com/questions/3343...-workspace
Thank you.
I am using windows 10 home, the pc comes installed with windows 10 and I just power on to use it immediately without installing anything, it was setup for the user to power on and use immediately.
I do not have drivers or anything with me. Would the url guide you provided be safe to do? After following your url guide can it load into windows without installing anything or drivers?
If you skip the complete OS reinstall, you can clear the system at these locations. Begin by navigating to the start menu, then type "%temp%" and press enter. Return to the start and repeat the process there as well.
I don't get it.
For your second sentence, is it correct to right-click the Start button, click Run, type in %temp% then click OK, and then I see this path? Then I delete everything in this folder?
For your third sentence, how do you proceed "Than go back to start and do the same here as well. ---" temp""
Doing these steps should clear or remove the recent files list that appears in the software, such as when opening [Media Player] or in Microsoft Word/Excel.
Those were areas people often overlook that still require attention. There are numerous Windows install locations storing small cache files. If you truly need to inspect all files, CCleaner is the recommended tool. I previously used it but experienced some issues in 2018; however, the community members here confirmed it's now reliable. Launch it and allow the scan to complete—you can opt for immediate cleanup or proceed with a more thorough approach. CCleaner will display the precise file paths on your system. ----right-click then select "Show file location"—navigate to the direct path and use a third-party program to securely delete each file CCleaner identified. If you choose to use CCleaner, access the advanced settings and review options such as history tracking (e.g., VLC media player, Windows media player). The list of items to check grows with each action. But remember, only you understand your computer's usage patterns and how deeply it needs cleaning. With this method, if you borrowed a machine from someone who isn't a power user, you're likely in the right place.
It's likely too late now, but a full Restore Point would have been ideal. I recommend removing everything you installed, checking the C drive for Program Files, verifying all folders are clean, reviewing documents and user files, clearing browser history and cookies, and resetting the PC. If you restart the system, you may need internet access to reinstall drivers. A safer method would involve more careful data protection, though it requires more effort. My opinion is similar to the poster above—how familiar are you with this person, and do they really care enough to find what you might overlook?
Exactly that. There are several suggestions about resetting, etc. A complete reset (wipe and reinstall) isn't a good option right now. If I lent you my laptop and got it back with a full wipe and a clean OS, I'd be extremely upset.
It is highly unlikely that any solution can completely ease your concerns. Possibly only a small part of the uncertainty remains. What if X, what if Y, and so on. May the best hope be your perseverance.