To permanently erase all personal data, applications, and the Windows XP operating system from a hard drive, leaving it blank or ready for a fresh OS installation.
Many "branded" computers (like Dell, HP, or Acer) have a hidden partition with the original factory files. how to wipe a windows xp computer
Connect an external hard drive or large USB stick. Copy your "My Documents" folder, Desktop files, and any other personal data. To permanently erase all personal data, applications, and
Admin Password? If you are locked out of the Windows desktop, Method 1 and Method 3 are your best bets, as they bypass the login screen entirely. Copy your "My Documents" folder, Desktop files, and
| Method | Speed | Data Recovery Risk | Best For | |--------|-------|--------------------|-----------| | Quick wipe via XP CD | Fast | High (recoverable) | Personal reuse of same drive | | DBAN (DoD 3-pass) | Slow | Very low | Donation or sale | | DBAN (Gutmann) | Extremely slow | Negligible | Highly sensitive data | | Physical destruction | Instant | Zero | Final disposal |
Watch for the message "Press any key to boot from CD" and hit a key immediately. Wait for the "Welcome to Setup" screen and press Enter. Press F8 to accept the Licensing Agreement.
Select the unpartitioned space and press C .