How to do a full (destructive?) system recovery?

Question

We lost the windows password to our computer and want to wipe it out, so it's like it was when we bought it and start fresh. There's nothing on it so far but the OS. I was told to reboot and keep pressing F10. But that didn't do anything. Any suggestions or directions?

it's a dell computer

Answer 1

try other f keys as well, different ones have different key designations.
You might not even have a recovery partition on your computer though.
Check under the start menu for the system recovery option.
You are using XP, correct?
If you are using 98 then you use the dos prompt and it is called "ghost"

Answer 2

You did not say what Operating System you use, so I will assume Windows XP.

Did you make the Win XP System Restore discs when you were first prompted to do so when you got your PC? If not, contact Dell and request a copy of the set of the System Restore disks. You may have to pay for them. The directions will come with them or you can have the Dell technician walk you through the process if you are not comfortable. It is really simple to use.

Answer 3

I don't believe F10 works for every computer. What type of computer do you have? That will help me tell you what F button to push when it reboots.

Also, if your computer came with a recovery/installation CD or Windows CD you can use that. However if you dont have that - the F button does work.

Email me - [e-mail] and let me know what brand PC I might be able to help.

Answer 4

You need to reboot and hold down F8. When the windows prompt comes up click on safe mode with command prompt.

When windows boots up the command prompt will show. Type in - Format c:

This will delete everything in windows. Good Luck.