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How to delete all files on HDD except Windows OS?

Discussion in 'Windows OS' started by centurymeltdown, Sep 17, 2009.

  1. centurymeltdown Newcomer, in training Posts: 17

    Is it possible to delete all files on the HDD expect Windows OS itself? E.g. all custom files made by the user, leaving only the actual WinOS. So it would be a clean install without needing to reinstall vista?

    Thanks,
    Cameron.
  2. strategic TechSpot Paladin Posts: 1,274

    The quickest way would be to create a new "administrator account", delete the current one and delete the files directories pertaining to it, then in the control panel, delete all the unused programs.
  3. centurymeltdown Newcomer, in training Posts: 17

    Okay, would it help to just uninstall every program i use, and then reinstall to it to regain any bloat?

    Any other tips etc, for getting optimal cleaning preformance? Any applications i should use etc? ^^
  4. strategic TechSpot Paladin Posts: 1,274

  5. centurymeltdown Newcomer, in training Posts: 17

    Haha, i recently installed a new stick of Ram (2GB), i had a few BSoD errors a week or so after, after uninstalling a ton of unneeded stuff to try and fix it and doing a ton of graphics updates and windows updates i havent had one in the past 24hours, so i though, heck, lets whatever i can to help my PC without formatting / reinstalling windows. (Im not confortable with that, and i dont have my Vista install CD anymore, only my CD-Key on a peice of paper, and im not the kinda guy to pirate a OS - If your going to use something as much as you usually do, you should buy it, period.
  6. strategic TechSpot Paladin Posts: 1,274

    If you played with your memory, then that's probably why the BSOD's come up.
    Try running this.
     
  7. centurymeltdown Newcomer, in training Posts: 17

    I didnt play with it haha, ill try the memory test, thanks :D
  8. centurymeltdown Newcomer, in training Posts: 17

    Got 6 passes, 1 error.

    what does this mean?
  9. strategic TechSpot Paladin Posts: 1,274

    If you receive errors on your memory test, you should replace the module which gave the error.
  10. centurymeltdown Newcomer, in training Posts: 17

    Okay mate, thanks very much for your help. :)