How to Completely Wipe a Computer Clean

Computers tirelessly perform complicated tasks to alleviate some of the time-consuming burdens of their human owners. Over time, these machines’ calculating speeds are reduced to a snail’s pace as they become plagued with anything from viruses to malware programs. Computer users frown as spam pop-up browser windows unexpectedly appear or, even worse, the blue screen of death emerges. Completely wiping the junk applications from the machines clears up the issues, guaranteeing their owners smooth-sailing when navigating around the desktop. All it takes is patience and a little technical knowledge.

Things You'll Need

• USB drive
• Belarc Advisor
• Windows CD
• Software drivers
• Applications
• Browser bookmarks
• Norton Ghost

Instructions

Cleaning Out the Junk Files

1. Backup data by transferring important applications from the computer to a USB thumb drive. Go through one program at a time so that nothing is missed.

2. Use Belarc Advisor’s Personal PC Audit software to record every installation and settings on hard copy. Doing so cuts down on time spent separating the practical from the junk applications.

3. Insert Windows CD and hard reset the computer. This process takes a few minutes to an hour.

4. Enter partitions. Assign one section of the hard drive for backup data and designate another for new programs.

5. Format each partition by right-clicking on it. Choose a different name per section.

Beginning From Scratch

1. Tweak Windows by personalizing with specific settings. Put new applications in different folders or pick an interesting desktop theme.

2. Download software drivers. They are needed for printers and other peripherals.

3. Install programs. Utilize only the ones needed on a daily basis.

4. Arrange browser bookmarks. This method allows for faster internet browsing later.

5. Create an image of the system drive onto the data drive with Norton Ghost. The computer user can then start fresh whenever time permits.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to check that all needed data has been backed up successfully on the USB thumb drive.

• Take advantage of the restore disks that came pre-packaged with the computer if Windows CD is inaccessible.

• Do not disconnect the computer while it is being reformatted as it can become an expensive paperweight.

• Avoid downloading applications from suspicious sites.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Wipe your computer clean.