How to Reformat a Windows XP eMachine

eMachines logo

Emachine computers may need to be reformatted for a variety of reasons. Common reasons include hard drive or other component failure, virus infection or restoring the computer to factory settings. Reformatting your eMachine computer with Windows XP only takes around an hour, depending on your hard drive size. The larger the hard drive, the longer the format will take. No matter why you're reformatting your eMachine computer, even computer beginners can reformat their computer with Windows XP.

Things You'll Need

• eMachines Windows XP restore disk

Instructions

1. Back up all files before reformatting. All data will be erased.

2. Insert your Windows XP restore disk into the disk drive in the front of the eMachine computer.

3. Restart your eMachine by either going to "Start--Turn Off Computer--Restart" or press and hold the button on the front of the eMachine tower. Press the button again to restart.

4. Press "F12" to enter the boot options menu before the Windows loading screen. Choose "CD-ROM."

5. Agree to the license terms by pressing "F8." Choose the C: partition to install Windows XP and press "Enter."

6. Format the drive using NT File System (NTFS). You can choose either Full or Quick format. If you're reformatting due to a virus, use the Full option.

7. During the GUI portion of the setup process, choose your time zone, computer name, network settings and enter registration information if desired.

8. Use the eMachine restore disk to reinstall applications and drivers you require. You'll need to check each driver and application and choose "Install." Restart your computer when finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the disk that came with the eMachine computer to make the reformatting process easier.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Read this Article in Spanish
• eMachines Support