Reformatting Computer
<div class="IPBDescription">need some advice/help</div> well my computer is crawling with Worms and some trojans, most non-cleanable. i dont have a virus scanenr (HAD 1 but brother accidently deleted it)so now im stuck withno other option but to reformat. now my comp expert friends have NO clue how to reformat. first things first: what important files do i have to save on disks before the reformat? when reformatting how do i install everything saved on the disks? i am going to take alot of info down with almost every detail before i do it. cause my comp is a wreck as of now. if u could take time to help me with some notes by telling me details that cannot be done in a post, then please IM me at RaVn581. thanks for the help
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ok, one serious advise that nobody will give you..
when you backup your data, dont take a single *.exe to the new installation, they are all potentialy infected
Backing up programs is both stupid (as they could be infected) and pretty pointless, as most will have to be reinstalled anyway to get their registry keys in place (so the program can find itself).
After all, you *do* have the original install media. <b><i>RIGHT?</i></b>
<a href='http://housecall.trendmicro.com/' target='_blank'>Website</a>
Its quite good and fast.
Secound id decide on ya new OS, if your computer is old use windows 98se if its newer go with XP or you could try linux (never used it personally).
Next id backup your stuff, personal files, important info, updated drivers for all you PC components.
If your gonna use windows 98se make a bootup disk, you should have got one with your windows disc (If you bought it) if you didnt make one from the add/remove programs menu.
If you going to use XP it boots from the CD but i would suggest lending an offical copy from a freind as its horrid to update if its not.
Once you have backed up your stuff, files etc you need to format. I think the windows XP disc gives you the option to fully format then install it by use of the CD on bootup.
But if your using windows 98se you have to go into DOS and type ( Format C: ) it will then format your PC and mark all bad sectors etc (If you use a diffrent drive name other then C use that). Once its done you insert the floppy disc and windows CD into the drives and reboot it will then read the floppy and install CD drivers, if im not mistaken they normally mark your CD drive as E: instead of D: as thats used for virtual tools. Once the floppy has booted and you get the command line you type (E:\setup) i think.... someone correct me if im wrong.
Windows then checks ya hard drive and runs the windows setup, its quite simple and easy to follow. It takes roughly 30-40 mins to install on a low spec PC, half way through it asks for your CD key and keyboard/location but thats about it.
Once windows boots it will detect *most* or maybe all of your hardware and ask for the drivers. Then once thats done its about finshed.
As for XP im not a huge fan of it and only ever used it once so someone else will have to give you instructions. From what ive heard its horrid to install and takes alot longer then 98se but it does have massive benefits over 98se.
*edit* Side notes, if you gonna use XP do not use the professional version as it has a larger 128meg footprint and its linked to your hardware so if you change something important such as you MB you will have to reinstall it all. Use the home edition it only has a 64meg footprint and isent as linked to hardware.
All this is from memory so if i got something wrong please correct me.