Learn the easiest ways to Reformat your Windows XP Computer, right now – right here.

reformat-windows-xp-computerReformatting is the process where the Hard Disk is wiped clean. This is normally done when a machine has become seriously compromised, or the Operating System has a serious flaw and needs to be re-installed.

Okay, before you begin to reformat your computer I strongly recommend that you:

1.  Make Back-up of all your important files
2. Make list of programs you want to install back
3. Make sure that you have the XP CD installer
4. And that your computer has a CD/DVD drive
5.  And lastly, disconnect network connections

Keep in mind that these tutorials will clean-out/delete/erase your current OS/Operating System and the drive it’s on, and will create a brand new system. Because this is a new system your old files and programs do no longer exist.

Let’s begin, just follow these simple steps to reformat your computer:

Step1. Insert Windows XP CD into your CD/DVD drive.

Step2. Make sure that your computer is set to Boot to CD. With the Windows XP CD in the CD-ROM drive, save your BIOS settings and exit.

Step3. “Press Any Key to Boot from CD”.

Step 4. After installing the necessary setup files, Windows XP will display your partitions. Delete any existing partitions by selecting the desired partition with the arrow keys, press D to delete and then L to confirm the deletion.

Step 5. You should now have only one option, “Un-partitioned Space”. Press Enter to install Windows XP to the un-partitioned space.

Step 6. When asked how you would like to format the partition, select “Format using the NTFS file system”.

Step 7. After the partition is formatted, Windows XP will begin installation. The computer will reboot/restart. While the computer is rebooting, please do not touch any keys.

Step 8. Enter your product key. If you purchased Windows XP from the IMU Bookstore, the product key will be located on the back of the sleeve your CD came in. If you are reformatting using a Windows XP CD that came with your computer, the product key may be located on a sticker somewhere on your computer case.

Step 9. When asked for Network Settings, choose “Typical Settings”.

Step 10. Windows XP will now complete installation. Upon completion you will need to re-install the drivers for your hardware (Modem, Sound, Video, etc). Many PC companies such as Dell, Gateway, and HP will include a “Driver Installation CD” with the computer. Simply insert the CD and follow the instructions. Otherwise, you can download current drivers from many manufacturer’s support web sites.

Step 11. Next turn on the Internet Connection Firewall. Instructions to turn on the Internet Connection Firewall can be found here.

Step 12. Reconnect your computer to the Network.

Step 13. Run Windows Update by opening Internet Explorer, then clicking on Tools -> Windows Update. Follow the on-screen instructions for installing critical updates.

Step 14. Restart your computer.

Reformat process should be done. You’ll just need to install again all the programs and software you need. And don’t forget to record your Drivers, you’ll need it.

Thanks, hope this can help you.