How to Use an F-Disk in Windows XP
F-Disk is an MS-DOS tool used to partition a hard drive, usually before formatting and installing the operating system. Older versions of Windows allowed one to access F-disk through the command prompt, but XP has its own built-in partition and format utility on the Windows XP setup CD. Instead of a FAT file system, Windows XP is able to utilize NTFS, a more secure and stable file system allocation.
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Instructions
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Backup your files. Partitioning or formatting your hard drive involves rearranging and erasing data. Backup all important files on external drives or media before proceeding.
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Configure your computer to boot from CD. Some computers automatically attempt to boot from the CD drive. For others, you will have to choose boot options or enter the BIOS and tell it to boot from CD. Look for the command to choose boot options or enter the BIOS right after your computer starts up.
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Insert the Windows XP Setup/Installation CD into your CD-Drive and reboot the computer.
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When given the option to repair or install Windows, press "Esc" to continue the installation. The next screen will give the option of creating, changing or deleting a partition on your hard drive.
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Follow the on-screen instructions to change, delete or create a partition and, if desired; format and reinstall Windows XP.
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Tips & Warnings
You can also manage some hard disk partition and format functions in XP by right-clicking on "My Computer" and selecting "Manage." Select "Disk Management" under "Storage."
