To reset a Dell laptop and improve gaming performance, start by backing up important files and data. Next, disconnect any external devices such as USB drives or headphones, and press the power button for 30 seconds to discharge any residual power. This step is crucial in preventing data corruption during the reset process. Once discharged, unplug the power cord from the laptop, press the power button again to turn it off, and then press the power button once more to boot up the system in safe mode. In safe mode, disable any unnecessary startup programs and services, and also update the drivers for the graphics card to ensure optimal performance. After resetting the BIOS by pressing the key combination (usually F2, F12, or Del) during startup, configure the SATA and USB ports settings according to your gaming needs. Finally, reinstalling the operating system is not necessary unless you're experiencing persistent issues, instead focus on optimizing the system for gaming and you'll see improvements in performance.