Doing a Reformat on Your Computer Should Be A Last Resort!
Reformatting your Windows computer is usually the absolute last resort and is often done unnecessarily. Before you go through the process of doing a reformat of your hard drive please take a few moments to read through the rest of our website. If you are reformatting to fix problems with your Windows computer it's possible that by using some of the tips on our site, or by downloading or purchasing some of the tools or products that we link to, you might be able to avoid the need to reformat your computer.
Because doing a complete reformat of your computer will erase the contents of the hard drive and require you to reinstall all software, reformatting is usually a last resort.
Some Computer Manufacturers Make Reformatting Easy
Many name-brand PC manufacturers include a restore-disk which makes it easy to reformat your PC and return it to the state it was in on the day you purchased it. Some manufactures supply only a standard Microsoft Windows CD, and some (usually lower-end PC manufacturers) supply neither! If your PC did not come with a restore or reformatting CD, then you will need to take extra steps to format your hard drive and get Windows re-installed.
Back Up Your Files Before You Reformat Your Windows PC!
Because the reformat or restore process erases everything on your computer, it is critical to have a backup of any important files on your computer. You will also need your original software install disks to reinstall any software you have purchased.
Things to do before you reformat your PC hard drive
- Write down or print out all notes and internet pages because once the format process begins, you will no longer have access to them (or anything else in the PC)
- As already stated, BACKUP all important files and data! When you reformat your computer everything will be erased!
- Make sure you have all the CDs and other software. All programs will have to be reinstalled after you format the hard drive. Don't forget about software that came with hardware such as printers, scanners, etc.
- Write down the brand and information for all the hardware on your computer. Look in the Device Manager and make note of the brand and model of network adaptors, video cards, sound cards, printers, modems, and displays. After reformatting you might need this information to reinstall drivers.
How To Reformat Your Windows XP PC
If you're ready to take the plunge and format your computer Click here for step by step instructions to reformat your PC.
