How to Format a CPU Manually With Windows XP

1. Backup your needed files on a CD or floppy disk. Even if you feel that some of your files may be corrupt or the sources of the problem, you should save them just in case. You can either do a virus scan on the disk(s) later, or bring the disk into a computer repair shop to be analyzed for issues.
2. Start up your Windows XP computer. Press \'F8\' as soon as you see the computer loading (you may have to hit this key a few times). You will be given a list of options. Click \'Command Prompt\' and you will be brought to a black DOS screen.
3. Type in the following line first: \'cd c:\\\' – replace the \'c\' with whatever your drive letter is on your CPU, as some people have multiple hard drives or a different assigned letter to the main drive. This will assure that you are typing commands into the root of the correct drive.
4. When you're all ready to format your Windows XP CPU, type in \'format c:\' at the blinking prompt, and then press \'Enter.\' You will be asked if you're sure, because once you format your drive everything you have there will be deleted permanently. Click yes if you're sure. It will take a few minutes or more for your entire drive to be formatted.