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Resolved Question

How to wipe a hard drive to reinstall windows 7

by Mar 22, 2015 2:23AM PDT

I know this is a stupid question and I have done this before but it was so long ago I completely forget how.

I need to wipe my hard drive and do a completely fresh install of Windows 7 but I can't remember how to do that.

I tried asking microsoft but they will only tell me how to create a partition on my hard drive and install Windows 7 a second time and that is not what I need to do.

To fix this problem it looks like I need a completely fresh install.

Sorry this is such a stupid question and thank you for your help and time.

Discussion is locked

movienut2015 has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer
6 Posts
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Best Answer

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Amazingly can't be answered in a step by step. Even today.
by Forum moderator Mar 22, 2015 2:28AM PDT

Such is so dependent on the machine and the version restore/install media that all those steps vary widely. If I was to start fresh I'd boot GPARTED (see google) and remove all the partitions. Now that's clean enough to boot your Windows 7 DVD to begin the install. At no time do I partition or format ahead of booting the Windows 7 DVD.
Bob

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Partition step is in Windows install at link.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Mar 22, 2015 4:07AM PDT
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Answer
Generally, This Will Get It Done
by Forum moderator Mar 22, 2015 3:46AM PDT

Remember though, this will eliminate all data from the drive, including partitions, (only standard hard drives, not SSD), and you'll need a Windows 7 DVD to create a new partition and install the operating system. In addition, make sure to have ALL the various drivers that your hardware requires, including the motherboard/chipset stuff. I like to create a CD which contains those drivers because sometimes a USB device won't be recognized till after the chipset and others are installed. First download the disk erase CD by downloading the Dban software at the link below. It will allow you to create the bootable CD for wiping the disk. Read the instructions at the site for doing so.:

http://www.dban.org/

Once the wipe is done, place the Windows 7 DVD in the drive, allow it to boot and load the basic files, then create a C: partition using the setup instructions, then install Windows 7.

Hope this helps.

Grif

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Thanks a bunch!:)
by movienut2015 Mar 22, 2015 4:51AM PDT

Thanks a bunch, this is a huge help.

I have my windows 7 DvD so that is no problem. my computer is running slower and slower even after I run Malwarebytes and it took a bunch of stuff off of my computer. I am having to run a start up repair disc ever time I turn my computer on so I think it's time to try a fresh instal. I already have all my data backed up on my dad's computer, so hopefully in a few days I will be back up and running good as new.

Thanks again guys.

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And just in case you get bored....here's some links videos
by VAPCMD Mar 22, 2015 10:22AM PDT
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Thanks a bunch.
by movienut2015 Mar 22, 2015 2:46PM PDT

It takes a while for videos to load on my connection so I will start them loading and take a look in the morning.

Thanks again for the help.

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