how to format computer?

Answer 1

For Windows XP you will need your install CD then:

1. First, make sure that your computer is set to Boot to CD (in your BIOS settings find the "Boot Order" and make sure the CD-ROM is set to boot first)

2. With the Windows XP CD in the CD-ROM drive, save your BIOS settings and exit.

3. If you've done everything correctly you should be asked to "Press Any Key to Boot from CD".

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.

5. You should now have only one option, "Unpartitioned Space". Press Enter to install Windows XP to the unpartitioned space.

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

7. After the partition is formatted, Windows XP will begin installation. The computer will reboot.

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.

9. When asked for Network Settings, choose "Typical Settings".

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.

And there you go, in ten easy steps!

Answer 2

Depends on which OS you are using. If it is XP, (NTFS) file system, then put your XP disk into your CD drive and restart your system. When you get to the window that asks if you want to remove the partition, follow the instructions for removing and creating a new partition. Windows will then ask to reformat. Windows will now want to format the drive, let it. But be advised, stay pretty close to your computer because as soon as windows is finished formatting it will start to load the new OS. If all you want to do is reformat, stop Windows from loading by shutting down your system. You can use the power switch on the back of your computer or just unplug it. If you want to load Windows just let it continue.
If you are formatting to a FAT32 file system IE, WIN98, then you will need a WIN98 boot floppy. Put the floppy in the "A" drive, start your computer and choose Start Computer "Without" CD support. This will bring you to an "A" prompt. At the prompt type "fdisk" without the quotes. Either remove the primary partition or remove the none DOS partition. Follow the instructions to remove the partition and then create a new partiton. When this is done it will take you back to the "A" prompt. At the prompt type "format C/ and then hit enter. This will format your hard drive to a FAT32 file system and make it ready to install either WIN98, or WIN ME.