How to Format CD-RW in Windows XP

Format and re-use CD-RW discs for data storage.

Formatting CD-RW discs saves money by saving you having to purchase new discs for storing data. Rewritable discs, or CD-RW discs, provide the option of erasing content for burning new material an unlimited number of times. Windows XP comes with formatting capabilities to erase rewritable discs. You can learn how to erase rewritable discs without the use of third-party software, and make previously burned CD-RW discs available for new content.

Things You'll Need

• Rewritable disc

Instructions

1. Insert a CD-RW disc that contains burned content into your computer's CD writer, or optical drive.

2. Double-click the "My Computer" desktop icon or access the "My Computer" folder from the "Start" menu.

3. Right-click the "CD drive" and select "Open" from the shortcut menu.

4. Select "Erase this CD-RW" in the CD writing tasks pane. Windows XP uses the term erase, as opposed to format, when clearing CD-RW discs.

5. Click "Next" when the "CD Writing Wizard" appears to begin the formatting process. View the formatting status on the writing wizard's progress bar. A pop-up message appears when the CD-RW disc becomes clear and available for burning.

Tips & Warnings

• CD-RW discs must contain content before going through the formatting process. Blank CD-RW discs will not format.

• Formatted CD-RW discs may not play in other disc players such as audio CD players.

References

• Windows IT Pro: How can I use Windows XP to erase files from a CD-RW disc?
• Microsoft Support: How To Erase Files From a CD-RW Disc in Windows XP

Resources

• Georgia Southwestern State University: CD-RWs