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Step 1
Before attempting to format your Dell hard drive, make sure any important data is backed up on other media such as CD or DVD-ROMs. After formatting your hard disk, it will be very difficult if not impossible to recover your data.
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Step 2
The easiest way to format your Dell hard drive is to use the Dell System Recovery Disk that came with your computer. Locate the disk and reboot your computer with the disk in the drive. Your computer should boot from the CD and give you the option of formatting your drive. Follow the on-screen directions to format.
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Step 3
If you can't find your recovery disk, another way to format is to use a DOS command. To do this, you must open a command link prompt. From windows, click on start and type in "cmd." A command line window will open. Type in "format c: /u" This is called an unconditional format and is more secure than a quick format which can be done by typing "format c: /q" where "c" is the drive letter of the hard drive you want to erase. After formatting the drive, you will have to use your operating system CD to reinstall Windows, etc.
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Step 4
If you are donating or selling your Dell computer and are worried about your personal data being taken, a format may not be enough. It is possible to recover the data on a formatted disk with specialized methods or software. A more secure way to erase your disk if you are concerned about your personal data being used is called a disk wipe.
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Step 5
Disk wipes can be performed using both free and commercial software found on the web. Check Resources below to find a disk wiping program to help you securely get rid of all data on your hard drive.
