How to Format a Computer

Two Methods:WindowsMac OS X

Formatting a computer involves erasing all of the data on the computer's hard drive, and then reinstalling the operating system so that the computer is restored to factory defaults. This can be useful if your computer is malfunctioning, or you are planning on selling or donating it. Follow this guide to format your Windows 7 or Mac OS X computer.

1.Backup your data. When you format a computer, you will lose all of your files and data. The programs can’t be backed up; they will need to be reinstalled. Any files—including documents, music, pictures, and videos—that you want to save need to be copied to a backup location.

• You can use DVDs, CDs, external hard drives, flash drives, or the cloud, depending on how much data you have to backup.                                                                                                                                            2. Set your BIOS to boot from CD. To do this, restart the computer and enter the setup screen when the manufacturer logo appears. The key to do this will be displayed, and varies by manufacturer. The most common keys are F2, F10, F12, and Del.
• Once in the BIOS menu, select the Boot menu. Change the order of devices so that your computer boots from CD before booting from the hard drive. Save your changes and exit. Your computer will restart.
• If you are installing from a flash drive, then you will need to set the BIOS to boot from removable storage
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