How to Format the C Disk

When a virus or malware infects your computer, sometimes it's just better to format the hard drive and start over. Formatting a hard drive is also beneficial when using one from an old computer for backup and storage. Formatting the "C" disk removes all information from the hard drive. Because most people install the operating system on the "C" drive, this will remove the operating system and require a clean installation.

Instructions

Create a Boot Disk

1. Insert the floppy disk into the drive of your computer.

2. Click the "Start" button and select "Run." Type "cmd" into the "Search" box and press "Enter." A DOS prompt appears.

3. Type "format a: /s" into the DOS prompt. This formats the floppy disk with bootable information.

4. Leave the floppy disk in the drive and reboot the computer. The computer boots to a DOS prompt.

Format the "C" Drive

1. Type "format c:/s/v" into the DOS prompt. This command formats the "C" drive with bootable information. The "/v" allows you to name the volume.

2. Press "Enter." The format begins. Depending on the size of the drive, it can take several minutes to format the drive.

3. Remove the floppy disk.

4. Reboot the computer. The computer now starts with a DOS prompt from the "C" drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Formatting a drive strips it from all information. Ensure you have backups before using these commands.

References

• WebTechGeek.com