How to Format a Computer Through the BIOS

Techwalla may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.
How to Format a Computer Through the BIOS
Image Credit: Top Photo Corporation/Top Photo Group/Getty Images

Formatting a computer is the process of deleting all information currently on the hard drive. This is done as an extreme step when changing operating systems or when your computer is infested with a virus. Formatting a computer requires that you set up the process through the BIOS, enabling your computer to avoid loading the operating system, as the computer cannot be fully formatted while the OS is running.

Advertisement

Step 1

Insert the boot disc into the computer and restart it.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Press the key indicated during the startup messages (typically one of the "F" keys) to enter BIOS.

Step 3

Click the "Boot Options" menu and select "Primary Boot Device."

Advertisement

Step 4

Select the type of drive containing the boot disc, whether the floppy drive or the CD drive. Press "Enter" to confirm.

Advertisement

Step 5

Press "Esc" and "Y" to reset. Press any key when prompted to boot from the disc.

Step 6

Type "format c:" and press "Enter." Press "Y" to confirm.

Video of the Day

Advertisement

Advertisement

references