When you install Windows Vista on a computer that already has an operating system installed, you have the option to format the hard drive and erase all of the data on the computer before you install your new operating system. This computer reformatting process is crucial if you want to erase an infected operating system or if you want to avoid potential conflicts between the operating system already installed and the one you are about to install.
Instructions
1. Insert the Windows Vista installation DVD into your computer and restart the PC.
2. Press the boot menu key on your keyboard (usually "DEL," "F11" or "F12") and then select the "Boot from DVD" option from the boot selection menu.
3. Click the "Install Now" button, choose to get the latest Vista updates (if you have an Internet connection), enter your product key and click the "Next" button.
4. Agree to the license terms and conditions, click "Custom" and then click "Drive Options (Advanced)."
5. Select the drive you wish to format and then click the "Format" button. The drive is formatted after you confirm that you wish to perform the format operation. You may now continue installing Windows Vista.
Tags: operating system, Windows Vista, then click