How to Reformat a Dell Laptop Without a Backup Windows XP CD

Reformatting your Dell will give you faster performance.

Reformatting your Dell Laptop should give you faster performance if you've been using your computer for a long time without reinstalling the operating system. If you no longer have the restore disk, don't despair. You can reformat your Dell laptop without using a Windows Restore CD as long as you can turn on your computer and type commands. Remember that reformatting your computer will delete any personal data, saved pictures, saved documents, and any updates or changes you've done since you first got your laptop. Be sure to back up all of your information on external hard drives or disks before you reformat.

Instructions

1. Write down your 25-digit Windows product key. You'll need it when you reinstall the operating system. It should be on the bottom of your laptop. If you can't find it, contact Dell customer support at 800-624-9897.

2. Open "My Computer" and then open "Drive C." This is the main hard drive of your computer.

3. Open the folder titled "I386." If you cannot see it, you may have to enable viewing hidden files and folders. You can do this by going to "Tools," then "Folder Options," then selecting "View Hidden Files and Folders" on the window Drive C is open in.

4. Double click on the file Winnt32.exe. This will open a program that will ask you several questions. Answer them and agree that you want to wipe out your operating system. The computer will run for awhile--don't touch it until you are specifically asked a question or given instructions.

5. Enter your product key when prompted. Your Dell laptop is now reformatted and should run a clean, new version of Windows XP.

References

• Microsoft: Reinstalling Windows XP
• Ask Leo: I don't have a Windows XP installation CD