Cleaning up laptop for resale

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

Hi

I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
of me remains?

I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
some guidance.

Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?

I would appreciate help.

--


Many thanks
JD

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

Thanks, I'll do that
--


Many thanks
JD


"uggabugga" wrote:

> Reformatting is the best way. Certain laptops have the XP installation files
> on a protected part of the hard drive and only require pushing a key at start
> up to initiate the reinstallation process. Pressing F11 on an IBM Thinkpad
> T41 for instance. I'd check with the manufacturer of your laptop.
>
> "Jackie D" wrote:
>
> > Hi
> >
> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> > of me remains?
> >
> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> > some guidance.
> >
> > Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> > fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
> >
> > I would appreciate help.
> >
> > --
> >
> >
> > Many thanks
> > JD

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

1) Will you be able to sell the unit with a blank, formatted hard drive?
2) Will you be able to sell the unit without the Windows CD included?

NOTE: The utility below will completely wipe the drive. There is no UNDO
option with this. If you really want to wipe the drive, this is an
easy-to-use utility. Proceed with caution.

http://dban.sourceforge.net/




--
--------------------------------------------------
Donny Broome
donny AT broomeman DOT com
Kill Spyware! Visit:
http://www.broomeman.com/spyware/
--------------------------------------------------

"Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
> Hi
>
> I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure
> nothing
> of me remains?
>
> I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do
> with
> some guidance.
>
> Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
>
> I would appreciate help.
>
> --
>
>
> Many thanks
> JD

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

Hello Jackie,

The best way to get rid of all your personal data before selling your laptop would be to format the
hard drive and clean install Windows XP. Some resources on how to perform a clean install are given
below:

See the section titled 'Perform a clean install of Windows XP'
How to install or upgrade to Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941

Clean install XP
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html

--

Anando
Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
http://www.mvps.org


Folder customizations
http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku

Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/protect


"Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
> Hi
>
> I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> of me remains?
>
> I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> some guidance.
>
> Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
>
> I would appreciate help.
>
> --
>
>
> Many thanks
> JD

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

She does not have the XP disc.
--
That's just like my opinion, Man........


"Anando [MS-MVP]" wrote:

> Hello Jackie,
>
> The best way to get rid of all your personal data before selling your laptop would be to format the
> hard drive and clean install Windows XP. Some resources on how to perform a clean install are given
> below:
>
> See the section titled 'Perform a clean install of Windows XP'
> How to install or upgrade to Windows XP
> http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941
>
> Clean install XP
> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
>
> --
>
> Anando
> Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
> http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
> http://www.mvps.org
>
>
> Folder customizations
> http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku
>
> Protect your PC!
> http://www.microsoft.com/protect
>
>
> "Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
> > Hi
> >
> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> > of me remains?
> >
> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> > some guidance.
> >
> > Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> > fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
> >
> > I would appreciate help.
> >
> > --
> >
> >
> > Many thanks
> > JD
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

If there's no laptop oem disk how about:
- use a program like Belarc to list the windows key and hardware information.
- make note of the devices in Device Manager and search for drivers to keep
on hand.
- borrow an XP install disk (assuming the laptop windows key is legit). Not
sure here, but might need to be careful about which disk to use with the key
(i.e. retail or oem).
- reformat the hd, install the OS, and afterwards load the device drivers
the install didn't recognize.

A lot more work than an oem disk, but better than nothing!
Hope this helps.

"Anando [MS-MVP]" wrote:

> Hello Jackie,
>
> The best way to get rid of all your personal data before selling your laptop would be to format the
> hard drive and clean install Windows XP. Some resources on how to perform a clean install are given
> below:
>
> See the section titled 'Perform a clean install of Windows XP'
> How to install or upgrade to Windows XP
> http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941
>
> Clean install XP
> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
>
> --
>
> Anando
> Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
> http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
> http://www.mvps.org
>
>
> Folder customizations
> http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku
>
> Protect your PC!
> http://www.microsoft.com/protect
>
>
> "Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
> > Hi
> >
> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> > of me remains?
> >
> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> > some guidance.
> >
> > Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> > fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
> >
> > I would appreciate help.
> >
> > --
> >
> >
> > Many thanks
> > JD
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe reformatting the drive isn't
> > a good idea? Or perhaps it is?

Read the "perhaps it is ?" part ? I stressed and recommended based on that part.

--

Anando
Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
http://www.mvps.org


Folder customizations
http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku

Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/protect


"uggabugga" <uggabugga@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:B9E33DD7-437C-4539-B44D-384376749299@microsoft.com...
> She does not have the XP disc.
> --
> That's just like my opinion, Man........
>
>
> "Anando [MS-MVP]" wrote:
>
>> Hello Jackie,
>>
>> The best way to get rid of all your personal data before selling your laptop would be to format
>> the
>> hard drive and clean install Windows XP. Some resources on how to perform a clean install are
>> given
>> below:
>>
>> See the section titled 'Perform a clean install of Windows XP'
>> How to install or upgrade to Windows XP
>> http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941
>>
>> Clean install XP
>> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
>>
>> --
>>
>> Anando
>> Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
>> http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
>> http://www.mvps.org
>>
>>
>> Folder customizations
>> http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku
>>
>> Protect your PC!
>> http://www.microsoft.com/protect
>>
>>
>> "Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
>> > Hi
>> >
>> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
>> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
>> > of me remains?
>> >
>> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
>> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
>> > some guidance.
>> >
>> > Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
>> > fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
>> >
>> > I would appreciate help.
>> >
>> > --
>> >
>> >
>> > Many thanks
>> > JD
>>
>>
>>

 

[Colin]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

"Anando [MS-MVP]" wrote:

> > > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe reformatting the drive isn't
> > > a good idea? Or perhaps it is?
>
> Read the "perhaps it is ?" part ? I stressed and recommended based on that part.
>
> --
> Have alook at http://www.cyberscrub.info/

Regards Colin.
> Anando
> Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
> http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
> http://www.mvps.org
>
>
> Folder customizations
> http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku
>
> Protect your PC!
> http://www.microsoft.com/protect
>
>
> "uggabugga" <uggabugga@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:B9E33DD7-437C-4539-B44D-384376749299@microsoft.com...
> > She does not have the XP disc.
> > --
> > That's just like my opinion, Man........
> >
> >
> > "Anando [MS-MVP]" wrote:
> >
> >> Hello Jackie,
> >>
> >> The best way to get rid of all your personal data before selling your laptop would be to format
> >> the
> >> hard drive and clean install Windows XP. Some resources on how to perform a clean install are
> >> given
> >> below:
> >>
> >> See the section titled 'Perform a clean install of Windows XP'
> >> How to install or upgrade to Windows XP
> >> http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941
> >>
> >> Clean install XP
> >> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
> >>
> >> --
> >>
> >> Anando
> >> Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
> >> http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
> >> http://www.mvps.org
> >>
> >>
> >> Folder customizations
> >> http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku
> >>
> >> Protect your PC!
> >> http://www.microsoft.com/protect
> >>
> >>
> >> "Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> >> news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
> >> > Hi
> >> >
> >> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> >> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> >> > of me remains?
> >> >
> >> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> >> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> >> > some guidance.
> >> >
> >> > Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> >> > fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
> >> >
> >> > I would appreciate help.
> >> >
> >> > --
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Many thanks
> >> > JD
> >>
> >>
> >>
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

That might be fine advice if the laptop is going to a relative or something,
but if this is going to some stranger, that stranger may well end up
demanding the original install CD with the purchased laptop, and depending
on the terms of the sale, could legitimately expect to get it. And if the OP
had to provide that CD after the fact, it's going to be costly.

And yes, you have the correct key with the correct CD version. They aren't
mix 'n match.

And with the new activation rituals, using a generic oem cd with the
oem-provided key could also cause some problems down the road.

"gregski" <gregski@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:26CCC5D6-49F4-47A6-B1A4-5EBE2B12E6D7@microsoft.com...
> If there's no laptop oem disk how about:
> - use a program like Belarc to list the windows key and hardware
> information.
> - make note of the devices in Device Manager and search for drivers to
> keep
> on hand.
> - borrow an XP install disk (assuming the laptop windows key is legit).
> Not
> sure here, but might need to be careful about which disk to use with the
> key
> (i.e. retail or oem).
> - reformat the hd, install the OS, and afterwards load the device drivers
> the install didn't recognize.
>
> A lot more work than an oem disk, but better than nothing!
> Hope this helps.
>
> "Anando [MS-MVP]" wrote:
>
>> Hello Jackie,
>>
>> The best way to get rid of all your personal data before selling your
>> laptop would be to format the
>> hard drive and clean install Windows XP. Some resources on how to perform
>> a clean install are given
>> below:
>>
>> See the section titled 'Perform a clean install of Windows XP'
>> How to install or upgrade to Windows XP
>> http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941
>>
>> Clean install XP
>> http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
>>
>> --
>>
>> Anando
>> Microsoft MVP- Windows Shell/User
>> http://www.microsoft.com/mvp
>> http://www.mvps.org
>>
>>
>> Folder customizations
>> http://newdelhi.sancharnet.in/minku
>>
>> Protect your PC!
>> http://www.microsoft.com/protect
>>
>>
>> "Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
>> > Hi
>> >
>> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first
>> > (including
>> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure
>> > nothing
>> > of me remains?
>> >
>> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
>> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do
>> > with
>> > some guidance.
>> >
>> > Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
>> > fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
>> >
>> > I would appreciate help.
>> >
>> > --
>> >
>> >
>> > Many thanks
>> > JD
>>
>>
>>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

Many OEMs offer the opportunity to make restore disks if they don't supply a
restore CD.
It is usually under the Manufacturers menu in Start>Programs.
If it's there, you can make the CDs, then restore the machine to it's
original factory configuration.
Your data should be wiped by the format/restore.
--
A Professional Amatuer...If anyone knew it all, none of would be here!
"Jackie D" <jackied@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:F8EB391C-2239-4672-82BF-E37491D876BF@microsoft.com...
> Hi
> I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure
> nothing
> of me remains?
> I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do
> with
> some guidance.
> Also, ny name pops up as the system administrator (I'm the only user in
> fact). How do I get rid of my user account for the new owner?
> I would appreciate help.

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

Jackie D wrote:
> Hi
>
> I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> of me remains?
>


To protect your personal information and data from any future users
of average skills, you should, at the very least, format the hard drive
and reinstall only the OS and those applications whose licenses are to
be included in the transfer. If you wish to do a more thorough job of
protecting your personal data, WipeDrive 2.2.1
(http://www.accessdata.com/Product07_Overview.htm?ProductNum=07) meets
U.S. DoD standards for securely cleaning surplus unclassified hard
drives, and could be used before formatting and reinstalling the OS and
applications.


> I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> some guidance.
>


Even if the laptop's manufacturer didn't provide a WinXP installation
CD, they would have had to have provided you some means of returning the
laptop to it's original, ex-factory state. Consult the manual that came
with the laptop, or the manufacturer's web site for precise instructions.


--

Bruce Chambers

Help us help you:
http://dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

You can have peace. Or you can have freedom. Don't ever count on having
both at once. - RAH

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.general (More info?)

HI everyone

Thanks to all of you for replying to my question. I have a confession to
make! I DO have the restore disc. I didn't realise this is what I needed to
reinstall Windows. Sorry... I have now reinstalled windows (having performed
a full format of the HD).

But I am still worried that if I sell the laptop some clever person might
still be able to retrieve my data. Am I worrying unnecessarily? Would it help
to use a file shredder or is is too late given that I've reformatted my drive?

I have posted a question about file shredders separately to this thread
(which was a bit dumb) so apologies to anyone who replies there too.
--


Many thanks
JD


"Bruce Chambers" wrote:

> Jackie D wrote:
> > Hi
> >
> > I'm selling my laptop and want to clear all my files off first (including
> > cookies, history etc). Is there a procedure I should follow to ensure nothing
> > of me remains?
> >
>
>
> To protect your personal information and data from any future users
> of average skills, you should, at the very least, format the hard drive
> and reinstall only the OS and those applications whose licenses are to
> be included in the transfer. If you wish to do a more thorough job of
> protecting your personal data, WipeDrive 2.2.1
> (http://www.accessdata.com/Product07_Overview.htm?ProductNum=07) meets
> U.S. DoD standards for securely cleaning surplus unclassified hard
> drives, and could be used before formatting and reinstalling the OS and
> applications.
>
>
> > I don't have a windows xp disk (it came already installed) so maybe
> > reformatting the drive isn't a good idea? Or perhaps it is? I could do with
> > some guidance.
> >
>
>
> Even if the laptop's manufacturer didn't provide a WinXP installation
> CD, they would have had to have provided you some means of returning the
> laptop to it's original, ex-factory state. Consult the manual that came
> with the laptop, or the manufacturer's web site for precise instructions.
>
>
> --
>
> Bruce Chambers
>
> Help us help you:
> http://dts-l.org/goodpost.htm
> http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html
>
> You can have peace. Or you can have freedom. Don't ever count on having
> both at once. - RAH
>