How to Format a Computer That Will Not Boot
- 1). Power the computer on and press the eject button on the CD or DVD drive. Insert the operating system CD that came with your computer. If you do not have the operating system CD, you should be able to order one from the computer manufacturer. Keep in mind that these are special operating system CDs designed to work only on the systems for which they were created.
- 2). Shut down your computer as soon as the CD has been inserted and the CD tray has closed. Restart the computer and watch for a message saying "press any key to boot from CD." Press a key to boot from the CD.
- 3). Look for a "Press X for setup" message if you do not see a "boot from CD" message. Press the appropriate key to enter setup, then look for a "boot order" option. Change the boot order so that the CD drive is first. This will force the computer to attempt to boot from the CD first.
- 4). Allow the computer to boot from the CD. During the installation of the operating system you will be prompted to format the hard drive. Format the hard drive and install the operating system.
- 5). Locate the license key for the operating system and enter it when prompted. If your computer is designed to sit flat on the desk this label will probably be on the top. If you have a tower type computer the license key label may be on the top or the side.
- 6). Install any third party software programs that you need, then run any necessary updates from the windowsupdate.com website. This will ensure that your computer is properly protected.
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