How to Reformat Your Hard Drive

Most all the data you save on your PC is stored on the hard drive. Your computer's operating system is also stored on your computer's hard drive. Reformatting your hard drive can permanently erase the stored information.

You may need to reformat your hard drive not only to permanently delete information, but also to remove viruses, or repair certain problems with your computer. When something goes wrong with your computer, you may believe that you have to buy a new one, when all you have to do is reformat your hard drive.

This tutorial will show you step-by-step how to reformat your hard drive using the Windows XP operating system.

Step #1
Before you format your hard drive, it is important to back up all of the important data stored on your computer. You can use a flash drive, floppy disk, zip drive, or any other type of storage device. This should include all your documents, PowerPoint presentations, flash animations, videos, music, and games.

Step #2
Disconnect any Internet or network cables so that you will not be interrupted by any type of network setting while formatting your hard drive.

Step #3
You should write down the configurations and settings such as Internet settings, display settings, manufacturer settings, and security settings.

Step #4
Once you have copied settings and backed up all of your important files, insert the Windows XP CD and reboot your computer.

Step #5
Use your BIOS to make your computer boot from the CD-ROM drive. Once it boots, you will be directed to the Windows setup screen.

Step #6
Choose to either setup or repair Windows. You can skip repair if Windows detects that you have previously installed Windows XP.

Step #7
Select the partition in which you want to reformat your hard drive. Now you need to select to format your hard drive with the NTFS file system.

Step #8
Once your computer has rebooted, you can reconnect all Internet and network connections.

Step #9
Once you have formatted your hard drive, your computer will appear as it did when you first bought it. Your desktop will no longer be cluttered with files and all previously infected files will be clean of all viruses or malware.

Step #10
Now you need to restore your backed up files. To do this, simply insert the storage media in which you saved your data. Also, with the configurations or settings you jotted down, restore your settings accordingly.