Computers store data and operating procedures in devices called hard disks; removing all data from these devices is called formatting. If you encounter problems when using your computer that you cannot solve, this may be necessary. Formatting completely "cleans" the device of all data and should fix performance or virus anomalies.
Steps
Part 1 of 5: Prepare for Formatting
Step 1. Evaluate before defragmenting your computer or using an anti-malware program
Both of these can improve the functioning of your computer and thus prevent you from formatting. You can also try reinstalling the operating system.
If you are trying to get rid of a virus, remember that this does not remove all files and infected ones may still be present after reinstallation
Step 2. Verify that your computer manufacturer has included a recovery disc in the package
Most manufacturers provide it in order to restore the device to factory conditions. In some cases, there is also an operating system installation disk, while other times there is none of this; if you have the recovery disk, you can save yourself the trouble of formatting your computer.
Step 3. Write or print any instructions you need to format
When you start the procedure you no longer have access to your computer files or the internet. If you've printed a copy of the steps you need to follow for formatting and troubleshooting, you have all the necessary references.
Step 4. Save the data
You should make a backup of all important files before starting the procedure. Remember that all information on the hard drive will be erased and lost. Read this article and remember to transfer the backup file to a CD, USB key or external hard drive.
- Make sure you have all the CDs with drivers for additional devices connected to your computer, such as the printer, as well as those for any programs you have purchased. If you downloaded them, make sure you can download them again from the network or transfer them to a memory device so you can reinstall them later.
- You should also make a note of the make and model of the devices. You can find this information by accessing the "Device Manager" section from the "Start" menu. Once you have accessed the device manager, you can click on each category and see which ones have been installed.
Part 2 of 5: Partition the Computer
Step 1. Insert the Windows XP CD-ROM or DVD-ROM into your computer drive
If you have opted to use the disks, you must install them one at a time when prompted by the system during the procedure.
Step 2. Restart your computer
In doing so, you start the Windows XP installer.
Step 3. Press any key to boot the CD when the system prompts you
The message appears immediately after the POST. When the contents of the disc have been loaded, press the "Enter" key on the "Welcome to Setup" screen.
Step 4. Press the F8 key to accept Microsoft's terms of use and license when prompted
Since the device already has Windows XP installed, you may see the operating system repair request; press the "Esc" key to skip this step and continue with formatting.
Step 5. Select any field that does not say "Unallocated Space"
All existing spaces, both partitions and unsorted ones, are listed on the monitor. Use the directional arrows to select the ones that need to be deleted.
Step 6. Press the "D" key to delete each file
When the system requests it, press the "L" key to confirm the operation; in this way, you erase all old data from your computer hard disk.
Step 7. Repeat steps 6 and 7 until only the "Allocated Spaces" remain
Now that all the spaces have been split and deleted, press the "C" key to create a new partition; afterwards, press "Enter" to create a new partition of the maximum size.
Part 3 of 5: Format and Install Windows XP
Step 1. Use the directional arrows to select a new partition
Press "Enter" to install the operating system in unallocated space. This is followed by a list of installation options.
Step 2. Select "Quick Install"
It is recommended that you choose the NTFS file system, which is the preferred one for Windows XP.
If you have decided to format your computer to recover from an error, you need to perform a full format, otherwise the error keeps showing up
Step 3. The device should reboot, after which you can select your language and local preferences when prompted
You can choose from the quick settings or access the custom menu for more options.
Step 4. Type your preferred password
When prompted for the system administrator password, you can enter it; pick one you can remember, but hard enough to guess.
Part 4 of 5: Restore the Data
Step 1. Take the disk or USB key that contains the computer backup
Insert the device into the appropriate reader to restore the documents you saved before the procedure and reinstall the applications.
Step 2. Click on "Start" to open the menu
It is located in the lower left corner of the screen. To restore the backup, choose the "All Programs" and "Accessories" option; then select "System Tools" and "Backup". When the backup opens, click "Continue" to proceed.
Step 3. Select "Restore files and settings"
Click on "Continue" to go to the next screen; select "Browse" to find the backup you have prepared on CD or USB key and then click "Continue" to proceed.
Step 4. Click on the "Finish" button to transfer the backup
This process may take a while, especially if you have a lot of data to transfer. When the restore is complete, click "Close". The files in the backup should now be on your newly formatted computer.
Part 5 of 5: Troubleshooting
Step 1. If the CD fails to install, run a memory check on your computer
If there are many errors, one or both memory sticks may need to be replaced.
Step 2. Try replacing the burner and cables
Some cables wear out over time, so they should be replaced when damaged or malfunctioning.
Step 3. Check the CD player
Try inserting another disc to see if your computer can read it; if the result is negative, you should switch players.
Step 4. Check that the disc is not scratched
Hold it in your hand and turn it upside down to observe it in the light; if the surface is scratched, the CD player cannot "see" the data. Use a different disk or try to repair it.
Warnings
- Note: The minimum computer requirements for the Windows XP operating system are: 233 MHz processor; 128MB of RAM, 1.5GB of free hard disk space, a minimum screen resolution of 800x600 and a CD or DVD-ROM drive, plus of course a keyboard and mouse.
- Warning: To avoid electric shock and fire, do not insert a dirty or wet installation disc.
- Note: performing this procedure deletes all user data, so you must first save it to an external memory device.
