How do I delete all files on Windows XP PC?

[Guest]

I have a massive virus problem, and as I've dealt with this many times before
with my old computer, I would like to delete all the files on my computer and
start fresh, using the Reinstallation CD or whatnot. But I have Windows XP
now and I can't figure out how to do this.

 

[Ron Martell]

I have a massive virus problem, and as I've dealt with this many times before
with my old computer, I would like to delete all the files on my computer and
start fresh, using the Reinstallation CD or whatnot. But I have Windows XP
now and I can't figure out how to do this.

Boot your computer with your installation CD. The CD menu choices
will vary depending on exactly what type of CD you have (retail,
provided by OEM, etc.) but there should be an option to delete the
existing installed Windows and install fresh. In fact, with at least
some OEM CDs that may be the only option you get.

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2006)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Clean Installation:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/cleanxp.htm

 

[Bruce Chambers]

I have a massive virus problem, and as I've dealt with this many times before
with my old computer, I would like to delete all the files on my computer and
start fresh, using the Reinstallation CD or whatnot. But I have Windows XP
now and I can't figure out how to do this.

Formatting the hard drive to solve a virus or spyware problem is
rather like using an axe to trim one's fingernails. Sure, it'll
probably get the job done, but it's rather messy...., and almost always
unnecessary.

However, if that's what you want to do:

Simply boot from the WinXP installation CD. You'll be offered the
opportunity to delete, create, and format partitions as part of the
installation process. (You may need to re-arrange the order of boot
devices in the PC's BIOS to boot from the CD.)

HOW TO Install Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=KB;en-us;316941

http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/clean_install.htm



--

Bruce Chambers

Help us help you:



They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -Benjamin Franklin

Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of
chains and slavery? .... I know not what course others may take, but as
for me, give me liberty, or give me death! -Patrick Henry

 

[All Things Mopar]

Today =?Utf-8?B?S2VsbHk=?= commented courteously on the
subject at hand

I have a massive virus problem, and as I've dealt with this
many times before with my old computer, I would like to
delete all the files on my computer and start fresh, using
the Reinstallation CD or whatnot. But I have Windows XP
now and I can't figure out how to do this.

Nuke and reinstall?

 

[Richard in AZ]

If you have a "Restore Disk" that should reformat and put your computer back to the factory status.
If you have a MS Disk or an OEM disk, boot to the CD and do a clean install, choosing to reformat.
If you have a "Hidden Partition" with the OS, follow your owners manual for a full "Restore".

: Today =?Utf-8?B?S2VsbHk=?= commented courteously on the
: subject at hand
:
: > I have a massive virus problem, and as I've dealt with this
: > many times before with my old computer, I would like to
: > delete all the files on my computer and start fresh, using
: > the Reinstallation CD or whatnot. But I have Windows XP
: > now and I can't figure out how to do this.
: >
: Nuke and reinstall?
:
: --
: ATM, aka Jerry
:
: "Whether You Think You CAN Or CAN'T, You're Right." - Henry Ford