Q&A for How to Format the C Drive With Windows 7

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Is it possible to format the drive and not lose any data?

Community Answer

No. Formatting removes all data from the drive for a clean install. Before formatting, you will need to back up your data to removable media, a second hard drive, or the cloud.

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Will formatting the C drive remove a virus from my system?

Jonathan Hickey

Community Answer

Yes, and it will also remove the entire Windows operating system, so I would not recommend doing this unless absolutely necessary.

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How do I format Windows XP?

Community Answer

Windows XP does not have a format option. You will to have to manually clean the PC yourself, or use a cleaning tool, such as CCleaner.

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How do I back up my files before formatting the C drive?

Community Answer

Use a backup software program.

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Question

How do I format my C drive when it has a virus?

Community Answer

Right-click the C drive and there should be an option to format it. If there is no option, right-click the C drive and choose "Properties." One of the tabs should have an option to format the drive.

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Question

How do I format a system(laptop/computer)?

Community Answer

On Windows systems, you should be able to go to the control panel and computer restoration settings to re-image the device. You may have to click on advanced settings for the selection to appear. It usually depends on what operating system you are using.

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Question

Do I really need Windows 7 on a USB or disk to do this?

Community Answer

Yes. If you want to reinstall it that is. If you choose another OS, you'll need the same installation disk/USB of the corresponding OS.

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Will formatting the C drive erase the data on the other drives in my PC?

Community Answer

No, it shouldn't.

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Will formatting Windows 7 erase my license key? Will I have to buy a new one?

Community Answer

If you bought your PC pre-built, you will more than likely have an OEM license, which means you need to ensure you have a product key and installation media ready (usually a memory stick/CD). If you bought Windows yourself, just reuse the installation media and key as before. Because the hardware in the system is nearly identical, Microsoft will identity this and allow you to reactivate Windows. Alternatively, you can manually deactivate your key so it can be used again.

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Can formatting the C drive affect my USB ports?

Community Answer

No, your motherboard BIOS should understand how to boot from USB ports. If you are having issues after you have installed Windows then it may be you don't have the correct drivers installed for your motherboard (refer to the manufacturers notes to see what your motherboard is). You should be able to find the most up-to-date drivers on their website.

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