How do I format my PC completely so as to get rid of virus at-risk files and reinstall everything again?

Answer 1

If your computer CAME with a restore CD, use that.

If your computer CAME with the Windows CD use that.

HOLD the power switch for several seconds, until the computer turns off.

Simply insert the CD, then restart your computer. If you do not get a prompt that askes if you want to book from CD, then you need to get into your BIOS setting.

HIT the F2 or DELETE key when you first turn the machine on. When the BIOS screen comes up, look for the BOOT or Startup settings. Check to see which DEVICE it will boot from first. Follow the instructions, so that the CD is first. Then restart.

Delete the original partition, so that it FORMATS and reinstalls.

Good luck

Answer 2

Back up any files you want to keep (picture, songs, etc) to a Cd, DVD or another hard drive. Format will wipe everything on the original drive.

Boot with the Windows XP CD in your CD drive, and it should begin the Windows Setup. During the set up you will be prompt to format the hard drive and then to reinstall XP.

Answer 3

you should first scan with antivirus
but......make a system disk-floppy
insert it in the special place
restart your pc,checking if your system is booting from the floppy(in bios-advanced features)
after the loading from floppy,type "c:/"
afterwards "format c:/"
after format is complete,insert your windows cd ,with the floppy still on
if you don't have a bootable CD ,go to it using the floppy(if you have a C and D partition,usually the CD is on F)
run the setup from your cd and install your OS

Answer 4

depends on your operating system (version of windows)

In win98 restart in DOS MODE and type:
format c:/q/s
In XP you can do it only if it is not the 1st or only drive.
If it is the only drive then boot from your XP CD- it will walk you through wiping it out. answer yes to the full format.