So if I reformat my computer will it erase any viruses, and return it to the same way it was when I first got it?

5/17/2007 8:00:53 AM

yes and no.
Reformatting will erase your hard drive. period. including any viruses and other crap, programs, files, and all data you have on it.

After the reformat, you have to reinstall Windows. Then it will more or less be in the same state you bought it, depending on the installation CD you have, where you got it from, etc.

5/17/2007 8:02:55 AM

It's a lot of work

[Edited on May 17, 2007 at 8:29 AM. Reason : ]

5/17/2007 8:28:32 AM

^ It's' less work than trying to remove a shit-ton of viruses.

5/17/2007 9:24:53 AM

reformat and restore are not the same

5/17/2007 9:45:08 AM

I've restored my computer a few times.

So do you guys think if I reformat it I should just get the newest version of windows for my computer?

5/17/2007 10:10:27 AM

yeah

5/17/2007 10:37:49 AM

you probably should reformat and reinstall. But not necessarily the "newest version of Windows". if you already have an XP installation CD, you might as well use that. There is no urgent need to spend the money to upgrade to Vista, especially if you have an old computer. Just wait until you buy a new computer later to get Vista. Until then, stick with XP.

5/17/2007 10:39:27 AM

http://www.apple.com

5/17/2007 11:07:11 AM

This means I'm going to have to back up all my music so I can put it back on my computer

5/17/2007 11:31:05 AM

^ That's why DVD-Rs were invented.

5/17/2007 12:30:29 PM