how to wipe a laptop?

Question

I have a laptop that I need to wipe, however it is not as simple as that. I need it so is is virtually brand new, just made, but I dont have the instillation disk. I want all programs removed, apart from the OS (vista). Is there a program, or a way that this can happen?

Answer 1

1.Delete some files(to take less time in CCleaner)Download CCleaner go to tools then drive wiper check the drive of your computer make sure it says "Entire Drive(All data will be erased)" make security as high as u want (the more, the longer it'll take) and wipe.

2.Uninstall everything, ,backup everything.

Answer 2

A new OS disk is usually quite expensive, But you actually don't pay for the software, you pay for the software key. Since you've already paid for that, it's just a matter of getting any vista key at all, and using that.



You're totally within your rights to borrow a friend's instillation disk and use your own key ( it's usually on a little sticker on your machine;s case somewhere )



Really, The only way to absolutely 100% clear your computer is to 0-write the hard-drive. but reformatting is a very fitting alternative. ( I mean unless the person you're giving the laptop has specialize training in data-recovery, you don't have to worry )

Answer 3

sorry to say this but you will have to buy the windows vista installation software disk for your laptop,

(that is if you can still buy it) this way you will be absolutely sure that you have wiped the laptop clean,

however when you install the new windows software this is all you will get on the laptop (windows operating system) and nothing else, you will have to reinstall any other program that you want on the laptop from disk again.

Answer 4

The only way to get windows (Vista, 7 or XP) only, on it with no other programs, like the ones from the mfr you will have to format the hard drive and then install windows from a windows CD/DVD.



If you use the system recovery program (like HP's have on their hard drive) it will put all the extra software that HP puts on their PC's and laptops.

Answer 5

There is a recovery partition on your laptop that will restore your computer to factory settings. First it formats the drive, then it reinstalls Windows and all applications that came with your computer.



Accessing system recovery differs depending on the laptop brand, either google it or let me know what brand it is.

Answer 6

So that it is taken back to factory settings. Boot up and hold F4, keep hold until different screen comes up. Press delete everything on :C drive and press accept. Let it delete, then log on and delete each program by going to: Control Panel, Uninstall A Program select all and uninstall. Done.

Answer 7

Thin you should to erase all discs and reinstall from installation disc, if you loosed it You can always contact a company that You bayed laptop from for another copy of the disc or try to search it on the web, and p2p people share strange stuff sometimes.

Answer 8

Find the laptop's butt hole and wipe until there's no more brown on the toilet paper.

Answer 9

Use DBAN, it's your best option.



http://www.dban.org/