How to Reformat Windows XP to Remove a Virus
We all know computer viruses can be a pain in the neck, especially when using Microsoft Windows. But removing them can be even more of a headache. This tutorial details a surefire method of virus removal for Windows XP users. It involves reformatting your hard drive and reinstalling Windows XP.
Using this method wipes out everything on the drive, including the virus, and installs a fresh copy of Windows.
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Instructions
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Disconnect your computer from all networks, and back up any data you want to keep.
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Insert your Windows XP disc while the computer is turned on. If you have a "blue screen of death," which is all blue and has error information on it that does not allow you to open your disk drive, you can use a straightened paperclip inserted into the small hole on the front of the drive. This hole is a powerless way to open your drive, but do not push too hard, only hard enough to pop open the drive so you can pull it out the rest of the way. If you are unsure where the correct hole is, don't try this.
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Reboot your computer. When the reboot begins, and prior to the initial Windows screen, push the F key that opens your computer's boot menu. This may vary by manufacturer. For example, in most Dell computers, the F key is F12 to open the boot menu. Check with your manufacturer if you are unsure. Some computers may automatically recognize the disc and open a boot menu.
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Choose the selection to boot from the disk drive that contains your Windows boot disc. Your computer will now boot from your Windows installation disc.
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Select "Install Windows XP" when it finishes booting. A list of pull-down menus will be next; select "New Windows Installation."
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Hit "Enter" when asked if you want to set up or repair an installation. A license agreement will come up.
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Read the license agreement and press F8 to continue. When Windows recognizes an existing installation, it will ask if you want to repair it. Press Escape to skip the repair, and you will be taken to a screen showing partitions on your hard drive.
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Select the first partition (this may be the only partition, depending on how your drive was set up). Press "D" to delete it, and press "L" to confirm. Repeat this process for any remaining partitions until all you are left with is unpartitioned space.
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Select the unpartitioned space and press "Enter" to install windows. When prompted, select NTFS formatting and continue. Windows will now install.
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Follow the prompts to set up Windows, and have your Windows product key (usually on your computer case unless you purchased this version of Windows XP separately). Check for updates using whichever method you normally do. If necessary, reinstall any drivers.
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Tips & Warnings
Run updates for Windows until there are none left before installing any additional programs.
It is good practice to set up passwords for the computer as well as any profiles created.
Always use a quality anti-virus and ensure that it maintains current updates.
In the event you are reinfected with a virus in the future, this process can be done as many times as necessary.
Any data not backed up before reformatting will be lost.
