How to Format a Hard Disk on XP

Formatting hard disk on Windows XP.

Hard disk formats delete all data that are stored in your computer. As an XP user, you may want to format your hard drive if you are reinstalling or installing an operating system or recovering from a serious virus infection. Formatting a hard disk in Windows XP is an easy process and can be executed with the help of a Windows XP installation CD.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP installation CD

Instructions

1. Insert the Windows XP installation disk into your CD/DVD-ROM drive.

2. Restart Windows XP.

3. Press any key when you get the following message on start up: "Press any key to boot off CD."

4. Wait till Windows loads up a blue screen. It will also load a few XP drivers during this time.

5. Hit the "Enter" key when you get the following message: ""Press ENTER to set up Windows XP."

6. Use the arrow keys to highlight the current partitions on your hard disk. Press the "D" key to remove the partition. Press "L" in the next screen to finalize deleting the partition.

7. Press the "C" key to create new partition. This will lead to a different screen that will tell you the maximum size of the partition. Keep in mind, the default size of the partition is the maximum size. Make sure the size already entered for you is the maximum size. Hit the "Enter" key.

8. Highlight the new partition you created in Step 7 using the arrow keys. Press "Enter."

9. Choose "NTFS" as the file system to format the hard disk. It is a faster method and at the same time, keeps your hard disk secured. Press the "Enter" key to start the formatting process. This may take a long time depending on the size of your hard disk.

Tips & Warnings

• You will lose all data when you format your hard disk. It may be a good idea to back up your important files and folders onto an external storage device.

References

• Itechhowto.com: How to Format a Hard Drive in XP