How to Format a Dell Laptop Using Windows XP
Based in Texas, Dell is one of the largest computer manufacturers in the world making desktop and laptop computers in multiple configurations. When a computer system becomes too slow or unstable or is infected with malware, sometimes the best solution is to format and start from scratch. Dell provides a CD with most of its computers for just this occasion.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Back up all important files and folders. Formatting the hard drive will erase all files and folders. Make a copy of anything you don't want to lose by backing it up on an external drive or CD/DVDs. Remove any peripheral components like mouse, printers and flash drives.
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2
Insert the Dell Operating System CD or a Genuine Windows XP CD and reboot your computer. When prompted, choose to boot the system using the CD.
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3
Choose to set up Windows. After booting the system, you will be asked if you want to try to repair the current installation or set up Windows.
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4
Highlight the largest hard disk partition (there may be only one) and press "Enter." Choose "Format" and select "NTFS." The disk will reformat, and the Dell computer will automatically reboot. Follow the instructions to continue Windows installation.
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5
Insert the Resource CD and follow the on-screen instructions to install system drivers. If you don't have the resource CD, you will need to download and the drivers for your computer off the Dell website. Once you have access to the Internet, run the Windows Update to configure Windows to the latest security and stability settings.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Formatting the laptop using Windows XP will delete or write over all content on your hard drive. Back up any data you do not want to lose before attempting to restore to factory settings.
