Erase Laptop data

[privateb]

Hi Guys I have an old laptop that I want to start using again but dont want any of the stuff that is on there.

Is there a way I could wipe it completly with the exception of windows XP?

Like a factory reset?

Thanks for your help

[Kymmy]

Not really, not unless you do a full system restore or format/re-install. Just that people tend to put personal data anywhere but in the correct folders, also different applications will hold personal data within their own folders or within localdata

[Waldo Pepper]

I concur with Kimmy.

At best you could download BCWipe, do a complete erase of files, swap file and slack space.

Failing that put a lump hammer through the disk and buy a new one.

[Andyband]

Originally Posted by privateb

Hi Guys I have an old laptop that I want to start using again but dont want any of the stuff that is on there.

Is there a way I could wipe it completly with the exception of windows XP?

Like a factory reset?

Thanks for your help

If you have the original setup disks that came witht he machine, then just backup any data you do want, then wipe and use the setup disks,

If you don't have said disks, then check to see if there is a recovery partition... some laptops have a partition with an image of the factory default, or at least the setup files to reinstall.

If you don't have either of these, and you still want to wipe/reinstall, then consider downloading all the drivers for the motherboard and other components (sound, graphics, usb controllers etc) from the manufacturers website, and burn them to disk prior to wiping the machine - it can save you a headache in the long run!

There are also some freeware progs about (google them?) that can backup your drivers. Be careful with freeware though, do sure to download from a safe website, and always virus scan files before using them

Originally Posted by Waldo Pepper

I concur with Kimmy.

At best you could download BCWipe, do a complete erase of files, swap file and slack space.

Failing that put a lump hammer through the disk and buy a new one.

OP says he wants to start using again so destroying the HDD will only mean he needs to buy a new one

---------- Post added at 16:27 ---------- Previous post was at 16:25 ----------

if it works and you have xp media to install then you could source a program called driver magician which will save all the drivers for you making a reinstall easier. Does the laptop have a recovery partition do you know?

[Waldo Pepper]

Then my first suggestion would be best then