How to Reformat a Dell Without a Disk

Reformat Windows XP
1. Remove any peripheral hardware accessories from the computer, such as the printer or external hard drive.
2. Turn on the computer. Press the keys 'Ctrl' and 'F11' when you see the splash screen and blue bar.
3. Use the mouse or keyboard to select 'Restore' from the list in the new dialog window.
4. Select 'Confirm.'
5. Allow the utility to reformat and restore the operating system.
6. Select 'Finish' when prompted to restart the computer.
Reformat Vista or Windows 7
7. Remove any peripheral hardware accessories from the computer, such as the printer or external hard drive.
8. Turn on the computer. Press the 'F8' key before the Windows logo appears on the screen. Release the key when you see the 'Advanced Boot Options' menu appear.
9. Use the arrow keys on the keyboard to select 'Repair Your Computer' from the list in the 'Advanced Boot Options' menu. Press 'Enter.'
10. Select your language settings. Use the touch pad to click the button 'Next.'
11. Type in your administrator password, if applicable. Click 'OK.'
12. Click 'Dell Factory Image Restore.' Click 'Next.' Click 'Yes, reformat hard drive and restore system software to factory condition.' Click 'Next.'
13. Allow the utility to reformat and restore the operating system.
14. Select 'Finish' when prompted, to restart the computer.