Wipe Computer

[PurpaFur]

I recently was sold a computer that still had information and files on it, and there appears to be a virus. My idea is just to wipe all files and programs to stock condition, if this is possible. The computer is a dell studio 1558 running Windows 7 Home Premium.

 

[DelJo63]

Of course; boot from a CD

• delete the HD partition(s) - - all of them.

This will force the MBR to be recreated too
Next, repartition

• first is 100MB primary;
  
• 2nd will be the C: drive,
  
• 3rd is 100MB a reserve for drivers,

Get the layout / space to consume the whole HD. Once it's correct, format EACH as NTFS and do not use the QuickFmt.
You want every sector to be rewritten or mapped out as a bad sector if so needed.

Now you're ready for a Full / Clean install.

 

[PurpaFur]

Boot from a CD? I got this computer without any CD's... Also I have no clue how to do any of the steps you described.

 

[DelJo63]

You need an OEM install CD Windows 7 Home Ed - - search the internet and buy it asap - - they are becoming rare and hard to find. MS wants the world to move on to Win/8.1

As to HOW-TO - - you need a local buddy to come help you. Once you begin, it is important to at least complete the formatting. The install can be done after the fact.

 

[PurpaFur]

This is sounding like it's going to cost more than a new computer of this type would cost... I think I'll just try to ID the viruses and manually delete files...

 

[PurpaFur]

I worded that wrong: This is sounding like it's going to cost more than this computer is worth to me... I think I'll just try to ID the viruses and manually delete files...

 

[mailpup]

If you have viruses, why not post the problem in our Virus and Maleware Removal forum?