How to Reformat a PC Running Windows XP

Co-authored by Spike Baron

Last Updated: January 24, 2024

Computers store their data and operating procedures on devices called hard disks. The process of removing all data from these disks is called (re)formatting. If you are having issues that you are unable to troubleshoot it may be necessary to reformat your PC. Reformatting your computer will wipe it completely clean and should solve performance problems or issues caused by viruses.

Method 1

Method 1 of 5:

Preparing to Reformat Your PC

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Consider defragging or using an anti-malware program first. This might help your PC performance so you can avoid formatting. You may also consider re-installing Windows XP.
- If you are trying to eradicate a virus, this will not remove all the files. The virus may still be present after re-installing.
Most brand name manufacturers include a disk that can restore your computer to the state it was the day you purchased it. Some only include a Windows XP disk, and some provide nothing at all. If you have a restore-disk you can save yourself from having to reformat your computer.

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Once you begin the process you will not be able to access files on your computer or the web. If you have a printed copy of the necessary steps and troubleshooting procedures you will be able to reference them as needed.
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Back up your data. All important data should be backed up before starting this procedure. Remember that all hard disk data will be lost when you reformat. Check out this article on how to backup your data in Windows XP. Ensure that you save that backup to a CD, thumb drive, or external drive.
- Note whether you have the software CDs to extra devices such as printers or software you may have purchased. If you downloaded them, then ensure that you either can re-download them or backup those files so you are able to re-install them after you reformat your computer.
- You may also want to note the make and model of your devices. You can find these by searching for “device manager” from the start menu. Once inside the Device Manager, you can click on each category to see what devices are installed.

Method 2

Method 2 of 5:

Partitioning Your Computer

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1
Insert the Windows XP CD-ROM or DVD-ROM into your computer. You may also use the Windows XP Setup disks. If using the disks you will have to install each disk when prompted during the setup.^{[1]
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Matt Ham
Computer Repair Specialist

Expert Interview. 14 May 2021.}
- You can use a Windows installation USB flash drive.^{[2]
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  Research source}^{[3]
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  Spike Baron
  Network Engineer & Desktop Support
  
  Expert Interview. 9 January 2019.}
This will start the Windows XP setup program.
This prompt will appear shortly after the (POST) power-on self test. Once the CD loads, press the Enter key at the Welcome to Setup screen.^{[4]
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Since there is already an existing Windows XP installation you may receive a prompt to repair it. Press the ESC key to bypass this option and continue formatting the disk.
All your existing partitioned and non-partitioned spaces will be listed on the screen.^{[5]
X
Expert Source

Spike Baron
Network Engineer & Desktop Support

Expert Interview. 9 January 2019.} Use the arrow keys to select fields to be deleted.
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Press the D key to delete each field. When prompted, press the L key to confirm partition deletion. This will clear old data from the hard drive of the computer.
- You should delete all the partitions in the drive that are visible until it is all unallocated space. ^{[6]
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  Spike Baron
  Network Engineer & Desktop Support
  
  Expert Interview. 9 January 2019.}
Now that all the partitioned spaces are deleted, press the C key to create a new partitioned space. Press enter to create a new partition of the maximum size.

Method 3

Method 3 of 5:

Formatting and Installing Windows XP

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Press enter to install Windows XP to the unallocated space. This will be followed by a list of installation options.^{[7]
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Expert Source

Matt Ham
Computer Repair Specialist

Expert Interview. 14 May 2021.}
2
Select Quick Format installation. You will want to select the NTSF file system. That is the preferred file system of Windows XP.
- If you're reformatting to recover from error, you will want to do a Full Format otherwise your error may still exist.
There are quick selection options or you can click on custom settings to receive more options.
When the administrator password prompt comes up you can enter your desired password. Pick a password only you would know, but difficult enough for anyone else to guess.

Method 4

Method 4 of 5:

Restoring Your Data

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Place your backup in the appropriate drive to restore the documents you backed up before starting this procedure and re-install your applications.
This is located in the lower left hand corner of the screen. To restore your backup, choose "All programs" and "Accessories." Then choose "System Tools" and "Backup." When the Backup program is opened, click "Next" to continue.
Click "Next" to continue to the next pane. Click "Browse" to find your backup in either the CD or the thumb drive and then "Next" to continue.
It may take some time to restore completely if it was a large backup. Click "Close" when the restoration is complete. The files from your backup should appear on your newly formatted computer.

Method 5

Method 5 of 5:

Troubleshooting

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If the CD won't complete reformatting then try running a memory test on the PC. You may need to replace one or both of the memory sticks if there are many errors.
Some cables may wear over time, so these may need to be replace if damaged or defective.
Try putting in another CD and see if your computer can read the CD. If it cannot, then you may need to replace your CD drive.
Flip the CD over in your hand and look at it in the light. If the CD is scratched then your CD drive may have difficulty reading it. Try using a different CD or try repairing the scratched CD.

Community Q&A

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How do I reformat without an XP setup disk?

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You'll have to have a setup disk to reload Windows XP.

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Warnings

NOTE: Windows XP requires the following minimum PC requirements: 233 MHz processor. 128MB of system memory (RAM). 1.5 GBs of hard disk space. 800x600 minimum display resolution. A CD or DVD-ROM drive. A keyboard and mouse.

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WARNING: To prevent severe electric shock and possible fire DO NOT insert the Windows disc if it is wet or dirty.

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NOTE: When following this procedure, all user data will be erased, please back up data.

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