While it may sound a little technical for many users, it’s actually an easy task to do. The only caveat is that many users get stuck when trying to download the recovery files from the support site and they get the message: “The recovery image for your device isn’t available for download through this page. Please contact us for help.” However, this shouldn’t be a big deal, because technically, you don’t need a recovery image at all to reset your Surface Book, Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 3, Surface 3, or (soon) Surface Studio. The three things you need are: the files to reinstall Windows 10, an internet connection, and (just in case) the pack of drivers for your device. In this guide, you’ll learn the steps to recover your Surface device running Windows 10 when you cannot download or you simply don’t want to use a recovery image.
How to reset your Surface when you can’t download the recovery image
In the case of a Surface device, a recovery image is just a special package containing the installation files for Windows 10, including all the device drivers, and any special software that may come bundled with the device — nothing more. The only thing special about the recovery image are the device drivers, which also happen to be available through Windows Update. This means that you can reinstall Windows 10 and then simply check for updates to complete setting up your device. To reset your Surface to the factory default settings when you’re having problems, and you can’t download the recovery image, do the following: At this point, your Surface (Surface Book, Surface Pro 4, Surface Pro 3, Surface 3, or Surface Studio) should be in working conditions once again and without using a recovery image. Surface UEFI settings Windows 10 Update settings Were you able to fix your Surface using this process? Tell in comments below. All content on this site is provided with no warranties, express or implied. Use any information at your own risk. Always backup of your device and files before making any changes. Privacy policy info.
