reformatting 1

[gusset]

i am running xp pro on a laptop with only 6gb of disc space. it has become cluttered and so i deleted all the files i created and re-installed the OS in order to start again.

however now, the add or remove programs dialog is empty, though i didn't (to my knowledge) remove any programs... and i don't seem to have gained much disc space. i also still have folders relating to xp users created the first time the OS was installed.

i now want to start again, that is have a completely empty hard drive and install the OS anew.

can anyone tell me the best way to do this, please?

many thanks

gusset

 

[FaiTHLeSS]

1st Backup all the files you will need.

Then get your Windows XP cd and boot from it, you might have to change setting in your bios to set the CD-ROM to 1st boot device.

The setup from the CD with give you the option to format the Hard-Drive then install XP again

 

[linney]

HOW TO: Partition and Format a Hard Disk in Windows XP (Q313348)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q313/3/48.asp

Read the paragraph,
"How to Partition and Format Your Hard Disk by Using Windows XP Setup."

 

[gusset]

thanks for the tips, guys

linney, you recommended microsoft as a source of help. no star for you :-D

the option to format on reinstall seemed to apply only to the boot partition, which is why i hadn't selected it before; in fact, my computer is as empty as i wanted it

best wishes

gusset