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How to reformat a hard disk?

How can I reformat my hard disk with Windows XP, without the disk?

  • My disk drive doesn't work and I want to delete the contents of my computer (not this one). How can I do this without having use of the disk drive?

  • Answer:

    Copy the disk to an external HDD or flash drive, then boot your computer from it. Just copy the disk, not the OS. Most any local computer shop (not Best Buy etc..) will have burnt Windows XP disk that they will put on your a external HDD or Flash Drive for you for $5-$20. Or you can download it from a torrent site < Not recomended> Then boot your computer from that drive. This link will show you how http://www.bootdisk.com/pendrive.htm Then go through the motions and use the product key located on the side of you computer. Make sure if you buy (or download) the OS it is the right version of XP.. Home, Pro, Media Edition etc..

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The best thing to do would be to buy an external disc drive. If you can't do that then your best bet would be to buy a large flash drive (4-8)GB. and create a windows XP repair disc (you can find that in the control panel) but save the "disc" to the flash drive. Then when you boot from the bios just select to boot from a flash drive instead of a disc.

dothepivot

type into a search eng, format drive. a few things you can download will do it. i've used killdisk and it works.

globeweasel

Try a USB stick.. Just pulling straws, but it might work.

SlyOne

Your question is way too vague. It sounds like what you are calling your "disk drive" is the CD/DVD ROM drive, not your hard drive. These 2 devices are entirely different. So, which is it? "I want to delete the contents of my computer" Do you want to wipe the hard drive clean, including removing Windows, OR, just remove all your "personal data", AND why? Are you planning to sell it? Please re-post with the above, and maybe we can help.

ELfaGeek

Why don't you just "restore" it back to when it did work.? I am(of course) assuming the computer still works. That would be by clicking start/all programs/accessories/system tools/restore. The computer goes back to an earlier time of your choosing to when maybe it did work? You could always try again if that date did not work. You don't need a disk to do this task. Maybe the reason it does not work is because it has conflicting programs and all you will lose is programs, none of your personal letters, pictures or that kind of stuff.

Canadian Ire

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