How to Format a Computer Step-by-Step

1. 
   Insert the Windows installation CD or your manufacturer's recovery CD into the CD-ROM drive of your computer.
   
2. Restart your computer. Click "Start" and then "Turn Off." From the "Turn Off" menu, click "Restart." When the computer restarts, you are able to boot the computer from the CD.
3. Press a key on your keyboard to boot from the CD when you encounter a prompt that says "Press any key to boot from CD." The first screen that appears allows you to enter language preferences.
   
4. Enter your language preferences and then click "Next," which can be found at the bottom of the screen.
   
5. Click the check box next to "I accept the license terms." Click "Next" to choose a installation type.
   
6. Click "Custom" installation. This option allows you to format the entire computer before reinstalling the operating system.
   
7. Click "Drive Options (Advanced)" to proceed to the formatting stage.
   
8. Click on your hard drive, which is listed at the top of the screen. Once your hard drive is selected, click the "Format" option. Click "Yes" when asked if you are sure you want to format the drive. Click "Next" after the drive is done formatting to reinstall the operating system.
   
9. Follow the instructions to reinstall the operating system. You'll want to reinstall the system; otherwise your computer won't be able to run properly.
   

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