formatting my c:/

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Guest

I am trying to format my c:/ coz it is playing up a bit, but I keep getting
an error that says there is a program running. I have tried to close down
everything that I know of but something must be running in the backround.
Anybody know what I can do?? thanks
 
I don't think you're meant to do it from the XP interface:

1. Backup all your programs, data & License key (I'm not sure if you will
have to call MS)
2. Set your BIOS to boot from CD Drive.
3. Put XP CD into CD Drive and reboot.
4. Follow the instructions. It will ask you if you want to format.
5. Choose the type that you want (NTFS or FAT32) and it should work.
6. If it fails, try YOUR-TYPE (Quick).


You will now have a fresh formatted drive.

Hope this helps
Harry
 
Dave131 said:
I am trying to format my c:/ coz it is playing up a bit, but I keep getting
an error that says there is a program running. I have tried to close down
everything that I know of but something must be running in the backround.
Anybody know what I can do?? thanks
Click to expand...

You will have to boot from your XP CD, you cannot format the drive you are
booting from.
 
Dave131 said:
I am trying to format my c:/ coz it is playing up a bit, but I keep getting
an error that says there is a program running. I have tried to close down
everything that I know of but something must be running in the backround.
Anybody know what I can do?? thanks
Click to expand...
No operating system will let you cause it to commit suicide. You must boot
from the CD to reformat the operating system disk.

Reformatting is merely the first, easiest, and quickest step toward
reinstallation. You can expect 2 to 4 hours of work to get the system back
into a working shape.

Jim
 
You can't format the C: drive from within Windows XP. You need your Windows
XP CD. Check out this link from my website:
http://xphelpandsupport.mvps.org/how_do_i_format_my_hard_drive_us.htm

--
John Barnett MVP
Associate Expert
Windows - Shell/User

Web: http://xphelpandsupport.mvps.org
Web: http://vistasupport.mvps.org

The information in this mail/post is supplied "as is". No warranty of any
kind, either expressed or implied, is made in relation to the accuracy,
reliability or content of this mail/post. The Author shall not be liable for
any direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages arising out of the
use of, or inability to use, information or opinions expressed in this
mail/post..
 
Dave131 said:
I am trying to format my c:/ coz it is playing up a bit, but I keep getting
an error that says there is a program running. I have tried to close down
everything that I know of but something must be running in the backround.
Anybody know what I can do?? thanks
Click to expand...

Formatting drive C: is the computer equivalent of capital punishment,
and from what you have said your problems may be no more serious than
jaywalking, so capital punishment may not be warranted or appropriate.

Try posting a description of the problems you are having, including
the details from any error messages. It is quite possible that a
solution will be found that is far less drastic than a reformat and
reinstall.

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2008)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca
Syberfix Remote Computer Repair

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."
 
You cant format C: at that point because Drive C: is what you using running
your windows system.....you can format it in some other way, just use
Partition Magic Software....back up your files first before making any move...
 
don't think that you're MEANT to do it?

that's a pretty ridiculous statement


Microsoft doesn't MEAN for us to do things and NOT MEAN for us to do other
thingd
MS just doesn't give a crap and makes some things hard for us to do.
BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT FOCUSED.

MS is too busy building Xboxes to give a crap, I'd move elsewhere sorry
 
MS is too busy building Xboxes to give a crap, I'd move elsewhere sorry
Click to expand...
Please do. And soon.

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2008)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca
Syberfix Remote Computer Repair

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."
 
Yeah ! what about your OS thats still running.no mention of what system your
using
very very difficult to know . If you are using Xp , make sure the Xp disk
boots up first in the BIOS.
Insert your CD. Be sharp to hit any button to load CD if your fail the old
version will load from C drive
Up comes blue screen with options. you must delete partion, that obliterates
your old version. Next you must
create new partition, I would use default settings.this is where format
place.As the operation progresses you
will have to input your 25 character key. plus country zone time etc
etcera.
TIP. from time to time your system will re-boot , on no account hit any key
at all, or you will be back to square one
deejaydee
Andy White said:
windows?
Click to expand...


I choose Polesoft Lockspam to fight spam, and you?
http://www.polesoft.com/refer.html
 
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