CLEAN install?

i have been trying to reinstall windows xp-pro completely clean. i have booted from the OS installed on my E: drive, formatted C: from there, then installed. Yet, when i boot up the C: drive version of windows, all my documents and such are still there, as well as things in program files folder. Obviously it isn't formatting properly.

How do i achieve a *real* clean install?

 

1) put in XP CD into CD ROM DRIVE

2) REBOOT and go into BIOS

3) make sure BIOS is set to boot from CD ROM drive (make CD ROM forst in the boot sequence)

4) REboot Again

5) when it says hit any key to boot from CD, hit a key

6) Follow on screen instructions. Choose Partition toinstall over, and choose Format Hard drive.. (do not choose QUICK format)

7)When computer reboots and it says hit any key to boot from CD... DO NOT DO IT THIS TIME

8) XP will install and comp will reboot again.. once again DO NOT hit any key when it promps you to boot from cd


You're done should boot to desktop... take out XP CD.

 

ok, thanks, i will try that.


What is wrong (out of curiousity) with using quick format?

 

I have never done it myself, but I do remember reading that is doesn't completely erase the drive.

 

someone posted this on here a while ago.. it's a good guide to follow after your format and clean install......

this is my guide to a perfect reformat and clean install. These are steps and should be done in order to acheive the perfect clean install. What do you think? It has worked for me my comp is running like a champ.

Format Harddrive
Install XP
Remove XP CD from CD DRIVE after Installation is complete
Disable and Stop messenger Service
Activate Windows
Install Service Pack 1
Install all Critical updates
Install all XP regular updates
Install Direct X9b (or latest version)
Install Latest Video Drivers
Install latest Sound Drivers
Install any other Drivers you need
Install and test UPS (Universal Power Supply)
Install Printer
Install other USB devices
Install Java
Download Media Play 9 (optional)
Tweak BIOS to your preference
Install Utilities
Install Games
Defrag Harddrive
Defrag Registry
Tweak Windows XP
Tweak Internet Explorer
Reboot

 

Great tips, everyone! thanks a lot.

Mmmmmm, a brand new clean installation is so beautiful and yummy... just like a new gurlfriend


hmmm, maybe i need a life

 

UPS = Uninterruptible Power Supply Just nitpickin' man.