How do I completely format my hard for a new pc build?

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CoffeeStoreGuy

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May 7, 2017
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I want to remove all the drivers for my old my pc. I would also like to remove my old os, and everything just removed. If anyone knows if I can just take it from my old computer an put it in the new one I would prefer that instead of this considering this is taking a while.
 
Solution
USAFRet


If it works, great.
Sometimes the OS chokes on new hardware, sometimes it does not.

You got lucky.

Is it still activated?
If so, will it remain activated after the next OS update next month?
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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Assuming you have the install media (and license key) for your OS...just boot from that.
When it asks where to install, select Custom.
You will be presented with a list of all existing partitions.
Select each, and DELETE
Leaving one large blank space.

Continue the install, letting Windows create what it needs.
 
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C

CoffeeStoreGuy

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May 7, 2017
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you mean boot into my usb windows installation and then delete the hard drive when it gets to that in the menu

 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Delete the partitions, yes.
Why are you wanting to do this?
 
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CoffeeStoreGuy

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May 7, 2017
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I had friend tell me if I didn't do this my hard drive wouldn't work, and seeing as I'm new to pc building so I don't really know what to do.

 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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It is not absolutely critical, but leaving the old partitions in there may screw up the whole install process.
You might even see two OS selections to boot from, even though there is really only one.

So, yes, you want to do this for a clean install of the OS on that drive.
Just as in the steps above.
 
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CoffeeStoreGuy

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May 7, 2017
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I plugged it in today and in just booted straight into my old os with all my old files. Do I still need to do it, because I already have all the new motherboard drivers and the new gpu drivers setup, and it seems to be doing just fine. I ran a few games they run really well.

 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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If it works, great.
Sometimes the OS chokes on new hardware, sometimes it does not.

You got lucky.

Is it still activated?
If so, will it remain activated after the next OS update next month?
 
Upvote 0 Downvote
Solution
C

CoffeeStoreGuy

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May 7, 2017
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yea it's still activated.

 
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