Nearly two in five (38%) British consumers plan to reject third-party cookies when Google implements its now opt-in model on Chrome soon, with another one in five (22%) still undecided, new research has claimed.

A report from Apply Digital paints the picture of a very divided landscape, with around one-third each having a net positive (35%) or net negative (32%) view of cookies for their web browser.

When it’s time to factory reset a computer, you’ve probably exhausted all your other reboot and repair options. After all, performing on a full-on factory reset isn’t exactly fun, but sometimes it’s the only thing that will get even the best laptop or desktop back in working order.

If you’re the proud owner of an HP laptop that that requires a factory reset, you’ll be pleased to learn that the restart process isn’t too complicated. Still though, there are some important parts of the process you won’t want to miss, so we’ve assembled this step-by-step guide to help you along the way.

However, if you’re planning to gift or sell your HP laptop, take a few minutes to check the laptop’s battery health. This may affect your decision, or even the laptop’s resell price.

Before proceeding, ensure any data you wish to keep has been backed up.

How to factory reset an HP laptop on Windows 11 or 10

Step 1: Open the Settings window on your Windows 11 or 10 laptop by pressing Windows Key + I.

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Step 2: Select the Update and security option, and then select Recovery.

Step 3: For a clean reset of the HP laptop where it goes back to its factory settings, select Get started situated below the Reset this PC section.

Step 4: The next step involves choosing whether you want the files contained within your system to remain on the device after the reset is performed. Select Keep my files to go ahead with this particular option. You can also choose Change settings after clicking this option to not restore apps and settings that came with the PC.

Alternatively, you can also select the Remove everything option, which will completely return the system to its factory setting, meaning it will more or less be a new, fresh HP laptop with no files, programs you’ve downloaded, etc., remaining on your machine.

The Remove files and clean the drive option will make the device like new, while the Just remove my files setting won’t perform a clean sweep of the hard drive.

Either way, when clicking the Next button for whichever method you’ve chosen, you’ll be instructed to plug your PC into a power outlet to proceed. Once the factory reset is completed, the screen will display a window to set up the HP laptop once again.

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(We should probably point out that you could skip all of this and simply install a new SSD in your laptop, before reinstalling Windows, so everything is as good as new.)

How to factory reset an HP laptop without a password

Step 1: Reboot the HP laptop by making sure it’s completely shut down and then turn it on again.

Step 2: Select the F11 button immediately after the system has booted to access Troubleshooting. Please note that you may need to use other F keys such as F9 or F10 if F11 doesn’t work for you.

Step 3: Select Troubleshoot and then choose the Reset this PC option. Simply follow the steps outlined from the previous section to complete the factory reset process.

Can you factory reset an HP laptop running Windows 7 or 8?

Factory resetting your Windows 7 Dell laptop (when it boots correctly)

Factory resetting your Windows 7 Dell laptop (when it doesn’t boot)

Need to reset Windows on another type of computer? See our guide on how to factory reset the different versions of Windows regardless of your system manufacturer.

Sustainable technology is transforming industries across the board, and real estate is no exception. In the DMV metro area, which encompasses Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, green technology is becoming a vital part of real estate development. Developers are now incorporating eco-friendly innovations to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon footprints, and improve the quality of life for residents. These advancements are not only necessary to protect the environment but also provide significant financial benefits for both developers and tenants.

Why sustainability matters in real estate

Real estate has a substantial impact on the environment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, buildings account for nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions. With the growing urgency of climate change, reducing this impact has become a priority. Developers in the DMV area are increasingly aware of this responsibility and are actively searching for solutions to create more sustainable buildings.

“Sustainability is no longer a choice; it’s a necessity,” says Timur Yusufov, a real estate expert based in Pikesville, Maryland. “Our region is experiencing more extreme weather patterns, from flooding to intense heat waves. Sustainable building practices can help mitigate some of these issues and create resilience in our communities.”

This push for sustainability in real estate aligns with state and federal regulations aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S. government, for example, aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. In response, the real estate sector is exploring technologies that can help achieve these ambitious goals.

Key green technologies in real estate

The adoption of green technology in real estate is driven by various innovations that reduce environmental impact and improve building performance. In the DMV area, several technologies are gaining popularity due to their effectiveness and cost efficiency.

Solar panels and renewable energy

Solar panels have become a popular choice for energy generation in new developments. They reduce the need for electricity from non-renewable sources, cutting down on emissions and energy costs. Buildings equipped with solar panels can reduce their energy bills by up to 20%, a significant saving for property managers and tenants alike.

“Renewable energy solutions like solar panels are essential for the future of real estate,” says Marcus Wang, a green building consultant in Arlington, Virginia. “They offer a great return on investment and are becoming more accessible as the technology becomes cheaper and more efficient.”

Smart building systems

Smart building systems use sensors and automation to optimize a building’s energy use. These systems can adjust lighting, heating, and cooling based on occupancy and time of day, resulting in up to 30% in energy savings. Smart buildings also offer greater comfort for residents, making them more appealing in the competitive DMV housing market.

“Smart technology helps manage energy consumption more effectively,” explains Sofia Reyes, an architect in Silver Spring, Maryland. “These systems reduce waste and ensure that energy is only used when and where it’s needed. Plus, they improve the overall experience for residents.”

Water conservation systems

Water is another critical resource that green buildings aim to use more efficiently. Technologies like rainwater harvesting systems, low-flow fixtures, and greywater recycling are making their way into residential and commercial properties. These systems can cut water usage by up to 50%, reducing strain on the local water supply and lowering utility bills.

“Water conservation is often overlooked in sustainable building design,” says Juan Delgado, a sustainability expert in Fairfax, Virginia. “But it’s essential, especially in areas like ours that can experience droughts and high water demand. Every building should be equipped to handle water responsibly.”

Financial benefits of green technology

While sustainable technologies often have higher upfront costs, they offer considerable long-term savings. Reduced energy and water costs, lower maintenance fees, and increased property values make green buildings a sound investment. According to a report from the International Energy Agency, green buildings can save up to 40% in operational costs compared to traditional buildings.

Property values also tend to be higher for eco-friendly developments. A study from the National Association of Realtors found that homes with energy-efficient features sold for an average of 5% more than comparable homes without these features. As demand for sustainable housing grows, developers who embrace green technology are likely to see significant returns.

“Green buildings offer real financial advantages,” says Eva Schmidt, a property manager in Bethesda, Maryland. “Our tenants love the lower utility bills and the comfort of knowing their building is environmentally responsible. As a result, we have lower vacancy rates and higher property value.”

Challenges and solutions

Adopting sustainable technology in real estate isn’t without its challenges. Initial costs for systems like solar panels, smart building technology, and water conservation systems can be high. Additionally, there may be regulatory hurdles and zoning restrictions that make implementation difficult.

However, many developers in the DMV area are finding creative solutions to these challenges. Incentives such as tax breaks, grants, and subsidies are available for projects that meet certain sustainability standards. The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit, for example, allows developers to claim up to 26% of the cost of installing a solar energy system.

“Government incentives are helping to make green technology more affordable,” explains Carmen Ibarra, a project manager in Alexandria, Virginia. “These programs reduce the financial risk for developers and encourage more of us to adopt sustainable practices.”

The future of green real estate in the DMV

The trend toward green technology in real estate is expected to continue growing, especially in eco-conscious regions like the DMV. Developers are already pushing for net-zero buildings, which generate as much energy as they consume. These buildings use a combination of renewable energy, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials to minimize their environmental impact.

As consumer awareness of climate change increases, more people are seeking out sustainable living and working spaces. Real estate firms are responding by investing in technologies that enhance sustainability and resilience. In the DMV area, where environmental impact is a growing concern, this shift is likely to transform the market in the coming years.

“Sustainable development is the way forward,” says Luis Mendoza, an urban planner in Rockville, Maryland. “Our industry is moving toward greener practices because people want it, and our planet needs it. I think we’ll see more net-zero developments in the near future as technology continues to improve.”

Green technology is reshaping real estate in the DMV metro area. From solar panels and smart systems to water conservation, these innovations are helping reduce environmental impact and creating long-term financial benefits. While the initial investment may be high, the demand for sustainable buildings is growing, making it a worthwhile venture for developers and property managers.

Incorporating green technology into real estate isn’t just good for the environment—it’s good for business. The real estate industry has a unique opportunity to drive positive change by adopting these practices, ultimately building a greener and more resilient future for everyone.

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In today’s world of power-hungry smartphones, tablets and laptops, a fast charger is no longer just a nice-to-have item — it’s a must-have. With many devices no longer including a charger in the box (yes, we’re looking at you, iPhone 16), grabbing a reliable wall charger can save you the hassle of trying to find one when your battery hits that dreaded 1 percent. And the best part? You don’t have to clutter your space with different chargers for every device, as one fast charger can often handle them all.

Whether you’re looking for something compact and foldable to toss in your bag, a dual-port charger to power up both your phone and tablet at the same time or a super fast charging option for your laptop, there’s a fast charger for every need. Modern adapters come in all shapes and sizes, from fast wall chargers for home use to power banks for charging on the go, and even hubs that can charge multiple devices at once. You’ll also find Type-C chargers becoming more common, thanks to their faster charging speeds and near-universal compatibility with most new devices.

While they do generally require more power, fast chargers don’t always have to be plugged into the wall either. There are plenty of fast wireless charging options, too. No more fumbling with connectors or cables when you’re in a rush. Just place your device on a charging pad, and you’re good to go. We’ve tested out some of the most popular fast chargers to find the ones worth your money.

Editor’s Note (June 2024): While we’re still waiting for more new chargers to come out so we can do a full update to our guide, some appealing options have hit the market recently. At the end of March, Pluggable announced a super slim two-port 40W USB-C adapter that seems like a great travel companion for keeping a phone and a tablet topped up simultaneously. One neat feature is its smart power allocation tech, which allows the charger to dynamically shift how much juice each device gets to best maximize efficiency.

Meanwhile, for those looking for something beefier, UGreen released an entire new line of devices with enticing specs. The most notable of these is a 160-watt GaN charger, featuring four ports (three USB-C and one USB-A) that can split power output between multiple devices at once or charge one laptop at up to 140 watts. This gives UGreen’s brick a ton of flexibility while still being able to refill even a beefy 16-inch MacBook Pro at top speed. Alternatively, Satechi’s latest 145w charger offers similar (though slightly lower) power output and comes with an assortment of international plug adapters, which could be a real luxury for frequent travelers. But perhaps most importantly, both of these devices cost $40 to $50 less than our current favorite high-wattage charger (Razer’s 130W GaN adapter), so we’re looking forward to testing these out in more depth soon.

Best fast chargers for 2024

Anker

Number of ports: 1 | Ports: USB-C | Dimensions: 1.12 x 1.12 x 1.39 inches | Compatibility: Phones, tablets, laptops (limited) | Cable: Not included | Charging speed: 30W

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$20 at Amazon

When it comes to charging small devices, 30 watts is by far the most popular as it covers most cell phones along with some larger devices like the Nintendo Switch. In our testing, all of the 30-watt chargers performed equally well, with each one able to get the iPhone to around 80 percent battery charge in less than an hour while also completely refilling the Galaxy phone in 60 minutes. However, as you can see, these smaller, low-wattage bricks struggled to refill both the XPS 13 and especially the MacBook Pro. Yes, you can do it, but it’s rather sluggish (the XPS 13 even surfaced a slow charger notification), and because I tested each device while idle, there’s a good chance these chargers may not be able to keep these laptops topped up while under load.

However, the one thing that sticks out is the performance of Apple’s 20-watt brick, whose lower output caused it to lag behind — every other adapter provided faster charging. While it was able to keep up with rival devices when refilling the iPhone, its wattage is so low it couldn’t even trickle charge the XPS 13. Dell’s power management did not even recognize that a charger was plugged in. That means this adapter is much less useful if you need to quick charge more power-hungry gadgets in a pinch. And I should mention I didn’t bother testing the old 15-watt Apple power cubes, which can’t even support the iPhone’s full 20-watt charging speeds. Anyone still using one of those really ought to upgrade to a fast wall charger.

If all you want is a power brick to keep small devices powered up, our choice for best charger is clear: the Anker Nano. Not only did it deliver the best speeds in its class, but it’s also the smallest, which makes it super easy for it to disappear in a bag. The one we tested, the Anker 711 charger, is an older model at this point, but you should get the same performance from the latest version, the 30W Nano 3. However, it’s worth noting that both models support Type-C charging only, and do not feature a USB-A port.

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Anker

Number of ports: 3 | Ports: 2 x USB-C. 1 x USB-A | Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.51 x 1.15 inches | Compatibility: Phones, tablets, laptops | Cable: Not included | Charging speed: 65W

$39 at Amazon

Here’s where things start to get interesting because while a number of these chargers have similar power outputs (aside from the Samsung 45-watt brick, of course), the actual results were a bit more varied. Both the Nekteck and the Belkin only managed to get the Galaxy phone to around 80 percent battery after an hour, compared to the Anker, Samsung and Satechi chargers which all hit 100. This suggests that both chargers aren’t properly communicating with Samsung’s phone in order to take advantage of its super-fast charging speeds, which I was able to confirm by using a USB-C volt meter. Meanwhile, as expected, Samsung’s 45-watt charger did great when connected to the Galaxy handset, but its lower output meant it could not keep up with the 60 and 65-watt bricks.

Somewhat surprisingly, every charger in this category performed well when hooked up to the XPS 13, with each adapter finishing within one percent of each other (around 58 percent) after an hour. However, when it comes to the thirsty MacBook Pro, every extra watt makes a difference, with the Anker 735 and Samsung Triple Port Charger edging out the competition, even though they’re still much slower than Apple’s included brick. It’s also telling that on the Belkin 60W, its fastest charging port actually denotes charging speeds of between 50 and 60 watts, which is why it couldn’t quite keep up with the other 60-watt chargers I tested.

As for picking a winner, Nekteck’s 60-watt brick is the cheapest while also being one of the few options that come with an included charging cable. However, with only a single charging port and sub-optimal compatibility with the Samsung phone, it’s hard to fully recommend. For my money, I’d go with the Anker 735 as it’s smaller, slightly faster and the same price as Samsung’s 65W Triple Port charger, while still offering a total of three USB ports (two USB-C and one USB-A port). Plus, its foldable prongs make it perfect for traveling.

Razer

Number of ports: 4 | Ports: 2 x USB-C, 2 x USB-A | Dimensions: 2.44 x 3.03 x 1.26 inches | Compatibility: Phones, tablets, laptops | Cable: 2M Type-C to Type-C included | Charging speed: 130W

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$160 at Amazon

For anyone considering a high-power USB-C fast charger, here’s where it’s important to pay attention to the fine print. While all of these bricks are listed at or above 100 watts, the primary charging ports on the Satechi and Belkin are actually capped at 90 or 96 watts. And that’s before you consider multi-device charging, which splits the total output across the other ports with the ratio varying depending on the specific model. This is where hubs or dual-port chargers can come in handy, as they allow you to charge multiple devices more efficiently.

During testing, all four had no issue topping up the smartphones, the Switch and the XPS 13, though once again Belkin’s adapter couldn’t fully recharge the Galaxy phone despite having more than enough wattage. On the flip side, while Razer’s USB C charger has a higher max output than either the Belkin or the Satechi, there wasn’t much difference in charging speeds when connected to the MacBook Pro. And this isn’t due to a lack of higher wattage cables, as both USB-C ports on the Razer brick are capped at a combined 100 watts.

Meanwhile, as one of the rare 140-watt power adapters on the market, Apple’s brick is super quick and did an expectedly great job of refilling the MacBook Pro. However, I should mention that it’s the only power brick in this segment that comes with a single port, which kind of feels like a missed opportunity for the Apple ecosystem. For those who need extra flexibility, wireless charging options are worth considering, though they might not offer the same speed as wired connectors.

So for anyone that wants a charger that can top up an ultraportable laptop quickly while still having juice to spare, I prefer Razer’s 130-watt GaN adapter. It’s the best charger in this category, as well as the smallest and most expensive at $180. On top of that, it comes with two international wall adapters (for UK and EU outlets) and a braided 100-watt USB-C cable, all of which you don’t get from any others in this category. If you need a reliable power bank or fast charger on the go, this could be a good investment.

Wrap-up

Obviously, there are a lot more than just 14 super fast chargers on the market, and sadly I don’t have the time to test them all. These days, discharging a phone from 100 percent battery to dead can take upwards of 15 hours, so depending on the device, I can only test one USB phone charger per day. Just gathering all this data took the better part of two months. And unfortunately, while I was running this test, Anker came out with a new generation of power adapters that I haven’t had the chance to evaluate just yet.

That said there are still some important takeaways. First, in order to ensure optimal charging speeds, you should pay attention to the charging standards of your device and the fast charger; make sure your charger can supply the proper amount of power. Manufacturers typically list a device’s max charging speeds, while power adapters clearly label their USB types and outputs. And when in doubt, you can look at the fine text on the charger itself, though you might have to do some math. Just remember, watts equals volts times amps. Furthermore, in the case of adapters with multiple ports, you’ll check to see how its total wattage is split when connected to multiple devices.

Then there are other factors like size and weight you’ll want to consider, with newer gallium nitride adapters (GaN) often featuring more compact designs and better power efficiency. And if you’re ever truly in doubt, you can simply opt for a fast charger made by the same company as your Android phone, iPhone, laptop or other gadgets, something that’s especially true for devices like the OnePlus 10T that feature speedy proprietary charging protocols.

How we tested fast chargers

The methodology for my fast charging experiment is intended to be as straightforward as possible. I drained each device to 10 percent battery, plugged in a power brick and then recorded the amount of charge added every 10 minutes for an hour. Each adapter was plugged directly into a standard 120-volt outlet (without the use of a power strip or any extension cords), and when possible I used the cable that either came included with the battery charger or one made by the same manufacturer as the device. If that wasn’t an option, I used certified 100-watt USB-C cables made by Anker, Apple and others.

Because the charging rate for devices varies depending on how much juice you have, I wanted to measure how well each adapter was able to match each gadget’s optimal charging speed. Generally, charging is slower between zero and 20 percent before speeds ramp up until the battery hits 80 percent, at which point things slow down again to protect and preserve the health and longevity of the power cell. For charging stations with multiple ports, I always selected the port with the highest power output while also not having multiple devices connected.

As for the devices themselves, I selected an Apple iPhone 13, a Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, a Nintendo Switch (a launch model from 2017), a 2021 Dell XPS 13 and a 16-inch M1 Max MacBook Pro. This assortment was chosen to cover a wide range of specs and power draws from 20 watts (iPhone 13) all the way up to 140 watts (M1 Max MBP). Also, every system was tested while idle (i.e. no additional apps or games running) in order to ensure consistent results.

One important thing to note is that while the USB Implementers Forum has approved support for USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) charging at up to 240 watts, adapters that actually support that power output don’t exist yet. Additionally, while there are a handful of cables that can handle more than 100 watts of juice, they are somewhat rare or hard to get.

What is GaN?

When looking for chargers, you may notice that some are marked as GaN, which stands for gallium nitride. This is an important distinction because, compared to older adapters that use silicon switches, GaN-based devices support increased power efficiency and output, allowing manufacturers to create more compact chargers that run cooler and support higher wattages. Depending on the specific power output, GaN chargers can be 30 to 50 percent smaller and lighter than silicon-based alternatives. That might not sound like much, but when they’re sitting in a bag alongside a laptop, phone and any other accessories you might have, cutting down on excess bulk and weight can go a long way.

Fast chargers we tested

With so many different chargers of varying power outputs to test, I broke things down into three categories. There are the 30-watt and under chargers, which are primarily designed for smartphones and other small mobile devices. Then we move up to 45 to 65-watt chargers (give or take a watt or two) that can handle things like phones along with a number of thin and light laptops. Finally, we have chargers that output 100 watts or more, which are good for pretty much anything besides the biggest and most power-hungry gaming laptops. Many of these higher wattage adapters also feature multiple ports, so can you top up additional devices at full speed. However, because not every power brick supports multi-device charging, I didn’t include that as a testing metric.

You can see a full list of the chargers we tested below: