How to Reformat Dell Computers With XP on the Hard Drive

Dell computers made before Windows Vista and 7 became popular with Windows XP preinstalled. If you have one of these Dell computers and need to reformat the machine, you can use the Windows XP installation CD to reformat the hard drive and reinstall the operating system. This erases all of the data on your computer, so back up any data you want saved before you perform this process.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP CD
• Windows XP Product Key

Instructions

1. 

   Insert the Windows XP CD into your Dell computer, turn the computer on (or restart it if it is currently running) and press any key on your keyboard when prompted by the message on the screen.

2. Press the "Enter" key and then the "F8" key if you agree to the installation license terms.

3. Press "D" then press "Enter" then press "L" to erase the currently installed operating system, then press "C" then "Enter" to create a new partition.

4. Press "Enter" two times to select the partition as the one you want to use to install Windows XP on.

5. Press "Enter" and Windows XP is installed and your hard drive is reformatted. When requested, enter your product key for Windows XP and click "Next" to complete the installation process.

References

• Microsoft: Install Windows XP