Clean Install Windows 7

How to Do a Clean Installation with Windows 7​

   Information
This will show you how to do a clean installation with a retail Windows 7. A OEM Windows 7 may have a few different screens than below, but basically the same.

Yes, you can do a clean install from a upgrade Windows 7 version. :)
NOTE: See this tutorial for how: Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

   Note
Do a Clean Installation if:
  • Your computer has no operating system installed, or it’s running a version of Windows prior to Windows Vista with Service Pack 1 (including Windows XP).
  • You do NOT want to preserve your data, programs, or system drivers.
  • You want to delete your current operating system and replace it with Windows 7.
  • You want to create a multiboot system by installing Windows 7 on a separate hard disk partition.
   Tip

  • Sometimes you may have a problem with installing Windows 7 with more than 2 GB of RAM installed on some older motherboards. If you have this problem, then you should install Windows 7 with a maximum of 2GB of RAM installed and add the rest of the RAM after Windows 7 is fully installed. You may need to flash your motherboard BIOS with the latest version to support more RAM like this. (WARNING - DO NOT FLASH THE BIOS if you do not know what you are doing. Please ask for help instead. One mistake can kill your motherboard permanently.)
  • Before doing this clean install, you should download and save all of your device drivers to a USB flash drive, DVD, another HDD, or some other media to have them handy to make setting Windows 7 up easier when finished installing Windows 7. For example, having the network driver available in case you cannot connect to the internet until it's installed.
   Warning
Windows 7 Minimum Hardware Requirements:

NOTE: For more information on this, see: Windows 7 system requirements
  • 1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor
  • 1 GB RAM for 32-bit Windows 7 OR 2 GB RAM for 64-bit Windows 7
  • 16 GB available hard disk space for 32-bit Windows 7 OR 20 GB for 64-bit Windows 7
  • Graphics card or chip that supports DirectX 9 with 128 MB memory (to have Aero theme enabled)
  • DVD-R/W drive, or bootable USB 2.0 port with Windows 7 USB flash drive
  • Internet or phone access to activate Windows 7.






Here's How:1. Boot the computer from your Windows 7 installation DVD/USB.
NOTE: Make sure that the CD/DVD drive is selected first and your HDD second in the boot priority order in your BIOS settings. Usually it is by default.

   Warning
If you want to install Windows 7 using UEFI instead of BIOS, then see this below first.

How to Install Windows 7 Using "Unified Extensible Firmware Interface" (UEFI)

   Note
If you do not have a Windows 7 with SP1 installation DVD/USB, then you can download the latest official Windows 7 with SP1 ISO file at the links below.

:ar: Microsoft Software Recovery

:ar: Microsoft: Windows 7 Direct Download Links

You can use Windows 7 USB-DVD Download Tool to create a bootable DVD or USB flash drive with the ISO to do the clean install with.



2. If using a DVD, then when prompted, press any key to boot from the installation DVD. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: You will only have about 8 seconds to press this key. If you miss it, you will have to restart the computer.Step1.jpg
3. Set up your language preferences, and click on the Next button. (See screeshot below).step3.jpg
4. Click on the Install Now button to start the installation. (See screenshot below)step4.jpg
5. Check the I accept the license terms box, and click on Next. (See screenshot below)step5.jpg
6. Click on the Custom (advanced) option. (See screenshot below)Step6.jpg
7. Select the hard drive or partition that you want to install Windows 7 on, and click on the Drive Options (advanced) link. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: If the hard drive or partition that you have selected is unallocated, then you can just click on the Next button instead and go to step 9 since it is already empty.
WARNING: You may not have the Drive options (advanced) option unless the installation is done at boot, and not running the installation from within your current OS.Step7.jpg
8. Select a hard drive or partition that you want to do a clean install of Windows 7 on, do what Drive options (advanced) you want if any, and click on the Next button when finished. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: If you have your hard drives in a RAID setup, then connect your USB key with the RAID drivers on it, click on Load Driver, select the folder on the USB key that contains the RAID drivers to install them. Afterwards, your RAID drives will be available to select from to install Windows 7 on.

   Tip
Drive options (advanced)
  • If you have more than one partition for a disk # (hard drive) and want to get rid of them to make that disk # one partition drive again, then select a partition with that disk # and click on the Delete option for each partition with the same disk # until there is only one "unallocated space" with that disk # left as in the screenshot below.
  • To shrink an existing partition to create another partition to install Windows 7 on instead, select the partition you want shrink and click on the Extend option. Type in how much in MB (1 GB = 1024 MB) that you want to shrink it by. Now select the new extended partition.
   Note
The 100 MB System Reserved partition is used for the Boot Manager code, BCD (Boot Configuration Database), System Recovery Options (Windows RE), and start up files for BitLocker (if turned on).
  • If you want to have the 100 MB System Reserved partition in addition to the Windows 7 C: partition on a HDD or SSD after installation, then you would need to make sure that all partitions on the drive have been deleted until it is only unallocated space. Next, select the unallocated drive to install Windows 7 on. If there are no partitions on the disk, you will get the 100 MB System Reserved.
  • If you do not want to have the 100 MB System Reserved partition and only the Windows 7 C: partition on a HDD or SSD after installation, then select a formatted partition or drive to install Windows 7 on. If there are any partitions on the disk, you won't get the 100 MB System Reserved.
Step8.jpg
9. The installation of Windows 7 will now begin. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: During the installation process, your screen may flash and computer will restart a few times.Step9.jpg
10. After the final restart, you will see this screen for a moment. (See screenshot below)step10.jpg
11. Type in any user name that you want for your default administrator account and any computer name, then click on the Next button. (See screenshot below)Step11.jpg
12. Type in a password you want for your default administrator account. Type it in again to confirm it, then type in a hint for your password. Click on the Next button. (See screenshots below)
WARNING: The password will be case sensitive. The hint will be seen by all users on the computer, so do not type your password as the hint.
NOTE: If you do not want your your user account password protected at this time or do not want to have to type in a hint, then leave this blank and click on the Next button. You can create a password later for your user account in the Control Panel User Accounts after installing Windows 7 without having to type in a hint.Step12A.jpg

Step12B.jpg
13. Type in your Windows 7 product key number. (See screenshot below step 14)

14. Uncheck the Automatically activate Windows when I'm online box, then click on the Next button. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: You can activate Windows 7 later after you make sure it is running properly. (See step 21 below)
If you chose to automatically activate Windows 7 online when you set up your computer, automatic activation begins trying to activate your copy of Windows three days after you log on for the first time.Step13.jpg
15. Click on Use recommended settings to allow automatic Windows Updates and proper security settings. (See screenshot below)
NOTE: For more information about these recommended settings, click on the Learn more about each option link in this window.Step14.jpg
16. Select your time zone and set your time and date settings, then click on the Next button. (See screenshot below)Step15.jpg
17. Click on your computer's correct network location type location to select it and have the settings for that location automatically applied. (See screenshot below)Step16.jpg
18. Windows 7 will now prepare your desktop to startup. (See screenshots below)Step17.jpg

Desktop.jpg
19. When it's finished and you are at your desktop, you can now remove or disconnect your installation DVD/USB from step 1 above.

20. Install all of your device drivers, then Windows Updates.

21. Refresh your Windows Experience Index (WEI) score.

22. When finished, all you will need to do is to activate Windows 7. (See screenshot below)

Activate.jpg
   Tip
If you are dual booting with another OS (ex: Vista), then that OS partition may not show up in Computer with a driver letter in Windows 7. You will need to add a drive letter to the OS (ex: Vista) partition in Windows 7 Disk Management for it to show up in Computer with a driver letter.




That's it,
Shawn





Related Tutorials

 
Last edited:
Click to expand...
rageej said:
Nice walk through! I was, however, left wondering were to specify which version, 32-bit or 64-bit, I want to install.
Click to expand...

Welcome to Seven Forums rageej.

With your specs I would suggest to install the 64bit.

Depending on which type and version you have, retail will come with two DVDs, one is 32bit and the other is 64bit. They will say on the DVD.

If you D/L'ed it you will have the choice of which one you want to D/L.

There is no 32bit or 64bit choice to select during the installation.

Hope this helps
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
76~2.0
OS
Windows 7 Ult x64 - SP1/ Windows 8 Pro x64
CPU
Intel Core i5-3570K 4.6GHz
Motherboard
Gigabyte GA-Z77X UD3H, f18
Memory
8GB (2X4GB) DDR3 1600 Corsair Vengeance CL8 1.5v
Graphics Card(s)
Sapphire HD 7770 Vapor-X OC 1GB DDR5
Sound Card
Onboard VIA VT2021
Monitor(s) Displays
22" LCD Dell
Screen Resolution
1680x1050
Hard Drives
Samsung 840Pro 128GB SSD,
Seagate Barracuda 500GB SATA2 7200rpm 32MB cache, Seagate Barracuda 1TB SATA2 7200rpm 32MB cache,
PSU
Corsair HX650W
Case
Cooler Master Storm Scout
Cooling
Corsair H80 2x12cm Noctua NF P12 , 2x14cm case fans
Keyboard
Logitech Wave
Mouse
CM Sentinel
Internet Speed
Dismal
Antivirus
Avast
Browser
Opera Next
Other Info
Haswell laptop: HP Envy 17t-j, i7-4700MQ, GeForce 740M 2GB DDR3, 17.3" Full HD 1920x1080, 16GB RAM, Samsung 840 Pro 128GB, 1TB Hitachi 7200 HDD,
Desktop: eSATA ports,
External eSATA Seagate 500GB SATA2 7200rpm,
External WD USB 500GB
Ahh, now I understand. I didn't realize there were two seperate discs in the retail package. Thanks for clearing that up for me. I was leaning towards 64-bit version, I'm checking all my programs to make sure they will work. Sometimes it is a little confusing to me if a program is 64-bit(there is a 64-bit version) or if it is just compatible. For instance, Office 2007, Nero 9, Adobe CS3, etc. I understand everything I have now is 32-bit, I wonder how well Windows 7 will handle the 32-bit versions?
 

My Computer

OS
Vista Home Premium 32-bit... for now.
CPU
Phenom II x4 965 BE @ varies
Motherboard
Asus Crosshair IV Formula
Memory
ADATA 4GB 7-7-7-21 1600
Graphics Card(s)
Radeon HD 3870
Monitor(s) Displays
Samsung 23"/19"
Hard Drives
Seagate 230GB /Samsung 750GB
PSU
Ultra 650
Case
Smilidon RaidMax Gaming Developement
Cooling
Thermaltake Frio - Push/Pull
All 32bit programs will run in the Win7 64bit OS.

There are actually two 'Program Files' folders.

'Program Files' this is where your 64bit programs will be kept.

'Program Files(x86)' this is where your 32bit programs will be kept.

So, no problem with 32bit version programs. They will go to the correct folder automatically.

Enjoy your 64bit Win7 OS :)
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
76~2.0
OS
Windows 7 Ult x64 - SP1/ Windows 8 Pro x64
CPU
Intel Core i5-3570K 4.6GHz
Motherboard
Gigabyte GA-Z77X UD3H, f18
Memory
8GB (2X4GB) DDR3 1600 Corsair Vengeance CL8 1.5v
Graphics Card(s)
Sapphire HD 7770 Vapor-X OC 1GB DDR5
Sound Card
Onboard VIA VT2021
Monitor(s) Displays
22" LCD Dell
Screen Resolution
1680x1050
Hard Drives
Samsung 840Pro 128GB SSD,
Seagate Barracuda 500GB SATA2 7200rpm 32MB cache, Seagate Barracuda 1TB SATA2 7200rpm 32MB cache,
PSU
Corsair HX650W
Case
Cooler Master Storm Scout
Cooling
Corsair H80 2x12cm Noctua NF P12 , 2x14cm case fans
Keyboard
Logitech Wave
Mouse
CM Sentinel
Internet Speed
Dismal
Antivirus
Avast
Browser
Opera Next
Other Info
Haswell laptop: HP Envy 17t-j, i7-4700MQ, GeForce 740M 2GB DDR3, 17.3" Full HD 1920x1080, 16GB RAM, Samsung 840 Pro 128GB, 1TB Hitachi 7200 HDD,
Desktop: eSATA ports,
External eSATA Seagate 500GB SATA2 7200rpm,
External WD USB 500GB
Hi all and Brink again.

I did not have time to read all 25 pages this time to see if anyone else has same problem as me.

I just got a mates pc he wanted his Windows 7 installed, he had Windows XP Home before.

So i followed the steps on this guide and did a clean install as he did not want to keep any files etc. I got to Step 10 where the PC auto restarts but then all i get is a BLACK SCREEN ! :( no mouse pointer no POST screen nothing ive tried restarting using on-board and off-board graphics card and still nothing.

Is it something i did wrong or is it a hardware problem ? please let me know im going to try a new monitor soon just need to find a spare working one.

Oh i used Windows 7 Home Premium Retail.

thanks for any reply.
 

My Computer

Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Custom Built
OS
Windows 7 Ultimate x86
CPU
3.2 GHz Duo Core
Motherboard
Gigabyte S-Series 3
Memory
2GB DDR2
Graphics Card(s)
Nvidia 6600 (Waiting on new one)
Sound Card
Built-in
Monitor(s) Displays
Samsung Syncmaster
Hard Drives
120 GB IDE Maxtor
500 GB SATA Seagate
PSU
600w Standard
Case
Gaming Case
Cooling
6 High Speed Fans
Solved the problem.

I had on-board graphics and off-board graphics (old Nvidia Card).

For someone reason it was the Nvidia card making the black screen as soon i unplug it works fine everything boot in and carried on installing Windows 7 and its working fine now.

thanks anyway :)
 

My Computer

Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Custom Built
OS
Windows 7 Ultimate x86
CPU
3.2 GHz Duo Core
Motherboard
Gigabyte S-Series 3
Memory
2GB DDR2
Graphics Card(s)
Nvidia 6600 (Waiting on new one)
Sound Card
Built-in
Monitor(s) Displays
Samsung Syncmaster
Hard Drives
120 GB IDE Maxtor
500 GB SATA Seagate
PSU
600w Standard
Case
Gaming Case
Cooling
6 High Speed Fans
Glad that you got it sorted ;)

Sometimes it's just a little thing that creates big problem.

Good work finding the answer.
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
76~2.0
OS
Windows 7 Ult x64 - SP1/ Windows 8 Pro x64
CPU
Intel Core i5-3570K 4.6GHz
Motherboard
Gigabyte GA-Z77X UD3H, f18
Memory
8GB (2X4GB) DDR3 1600 Corsair Vengeance CL8 1.5v
Graphics Card(s)
Sapphire HD 7770 Vapor-X OC 1GB DDR5
Sound Card
Onboard VIA VT2021
Monitor(s) Displays
22" LCD Dell
Screen Resolution
1680x1050
Hard Drives
Samsung 840Pro 128GB SSD,
Seagate Barracuda 500GB SATA2 7200rpm 32MB cache, Seagate Barracuda 1TB SATA2 7200rpm 32MB cache,
PSU
Corsair HX650W
Case
Cooler Master Storm Scout
Cooling
Corsair H80 2x12cm Noctua NF P12 , 2x14cm case fans
Keyboard
Logitech Wave
Mouse
CM Sentinel
Internet Speed
Dismal
Antivirus
Avast
Browser
Opera Next
Other Info
Haswell laptop: HP Envy 17t-j, i7-4700MQ, GeForce 740M 2GB DDR3, 17.3" Full HD 1920x1080, 16GB RAM, Samsung 840 Pro 128GB, 1TB Hitachi 7200 HDD,
Desktop: eSATA ports,
External eSATA Seagate 500GB SATA2 7200rpm,
External WD USB 500GB
Thanks for the thorough guide Brink, Although I have two questions:

1. Is it absolutely necessary to choose the recommended settings on the "Help protect your computer and improve Windows automatically" screen?

2. Is there really such a big difference between choosing a home network and a public network on the "Select your computer's current location" screen?
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
OS
Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit
CPU
Intel core i5 2400 quad 6mb 3.1 GHz
Motherboard
Gigabyte H67M-D2-B3
Memory
KVR Kingston 4GB DDR3 1333MHZ
Graphics Card(s)
ATI Radeon R7 200
Sound Card
5.1 on-board
Monitor(s) Displays
Dell U2410
Screen Resolution
1900 x 1200
Hard Drives
Internal HD Western Digital 1 terabyte 7200 SATA3
Samsung SSD 850 EVO 250 GB
PSU
INWIN power man 450W A.PFC
Internet Speed
100 mb
Hello RFE,

I have updated steps 15 and 17 to provide more information about these to make it more helpful.

rfe777 said:
1. Is it absolutely necessary to choose the recommended settings on the "Help protect your computer and improve Windows automatically" screen?
Click to expand...

No, not at all. (step 15 in tutorial) This is just the recommended setting since it sets automatic Windows Update downloads and installation, turns on Internet Explorer Protected Mode, etc... You can always manually set these settings how you like them instead after the installation is complete.


2. Is there really such a big difference between choosing a home network and a public network on the "Select your computer's current location" screen?
Click to expand...

Yes, there's a huge difference on how all of your network settings are determined by what network location you select here. The tutorial below can help give you more details about each network location to help decide which one is best for you. You can always change your network location type at anytime as well.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/43629-network-location-set-home-work-public-network.html


Hope this helps,
Shawn
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Self built custom
OS
64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
CPU
Intel i7-8700K OC'd to 5 GHz
Motherboard
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Formula Z390
Memory
64 GB (4x16GB) G.SKILL TridentZ RGB DDR4 3600 MHz
Graphics Card(s)
ASUS ROG-STRIX-GTX1080TI-O11G-GAMING
Sound Card
Integrated
Monitor(s) Displays
2 x Samsung Odyssey G7 27"
Screen Resolution
2560x1440
Hard Drives
1TB Samsung 990 PRO M.2,
4TB Samsung 990 PRO PRO M.2,
TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS
PSU
Seasonic Prime Titanium 850W
Case
Thermaltake Core P3
Cooling
Corsair Hydro H115i
Keyboard
Logitech wireless K800
Mouse
Logitech MX Master 4
Internet Speed
2 Gb/s Download and 100 Mb/s Upload
Antivirus
Malwarebyte Anti-Malware Premium
Browser
Google Chrome
Other Info
Logitech Z625 speaker system,
Logitech BRIO 4K Pro webcam,
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdn,
APC SMART-UPS RT 1000 XL - SURT1000XLI,
Galaxy S23 Plus phone
Activating windows 7

Hey all, thanks for this awsome tutorial !

but i still have some problems ...
I bought an upgrade version of windows 7 Ultimate and i wanted to instal it on a complete new desktop (so no files, no OS, nothing) I have an instalation key of windows XP but i don't know how to enter it :s
the cpu (i7 860) and windows 7 is 64 bit, i don't think i can install windows XP (wich will be 32bit) on a 64 bit system.

During the instalation of 'windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit english', I never had to fill in a serial number... Now it is installed but if i go to the control panel > system, i can see i have only XX days left to activate it. When i enter my windows 7 Ult. serial key i get on the back of the cd-cover, it says its an upgrade key and not a key for the full, complete, new version of windows 7

Is there someone/something that can help me please !


Thanks already !


Regards, Lucas


edit, i found a code in one of my 'windows vista home premium' first i thought it was a serial key but i don't know if its long enough ... "XXX-XXXXXXX-XXX" can be a serial key ?
 

My Computer

OS
Windows 7 Ultimate
CPU
i7 860
Motherboard
P55M-UD4
Memory
4x2 GB OCZ Platium Dual channel 1333Mhz (7-7-720)
Graphics Card(s)
HIS 5770 ICE Q5
PSU
Corsair HX 650 Watt
Veracious said:
Hey all, thanks for this awsome tutorial !

but i still have some problems ...
I bought an upgrade version of windows 7 Ultimate and i wanted to instal it on a complete new desktop (so no files, no OS, nothing) I have an instalation key of windows XP but i don't know how to enter it :s
the cpu (i7 860) and windows 7 is 64 bit, i don't think i can install windows XP (wich will be 32bit) on a 64 bit system.

During the instalation of 'windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit english', I never had to fill in a serial number... Now it is installed but if i go to the control panel > system, i can see i have only XX days left to activate it. When i enter my windows 7 Ult. serial key i get on the back of the cd-cover, it says its an upgrade key and not a key for the full, complete, new version of windows 7

Is there someone/something that can help me please !


Thanks already !


Regards, Lucas
Click to expand...
See this tutorial: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/31402-clean-install-upgrade-windows-7-version.html
 

My Computer

Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Custom
OS
Windows 7 Professional x64
CPU
Intel i7 2600K OC'd @ 4620 MHz
Motherboard
Asus P8Z68-V Pro
Memory
16GB GSkill Sniper 2133 Mhz (4x4GB)
Graphics Card(s)
EVGA GeForce GTX 480 SuperClocked+
Sound Card
Realtek High Definition Audio
Monitor(s) Displays
2x Acer S273HLbmii 27"
Screen Resolution
2 x 1920x1080
Hard Drives
64GB Crucial M4 SSD

Storage: Hitachi 1TB 5400RPM, Samsung 1.5TB 5400RPM
PSU
Corsair HW Series 750w (modular)
Case
Cooler Master HAF 932 Advanced Blue Edition
Cooling
CM Hyper 212+ CPU cooler, 3x 230mm + 1x 140mm case fans
Keyboard
Logitech MK320 (wireless)
Mouse
Logitech MK320 (wireless)
Internet Speed
30 Mb/s : 2 Mb/s
Shawn,

I was reviewing your excellent Clean Install write-up and noticed a point that may need to be modified for the case of installing from a UFD such as for netbooks.

Here's the clip from the tutorial:

Windows 7 Minimum Hardware Requirements:
NOTE: For more information on this, see: Windows 7 system requirements

* 1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor
* 1 GB RAM for 32-bit Windows 7 OR 2 GB RAM for 64-bit Windows 7
* 16 GB available hard disk space for 32-bit Windows 7 OR 20 GB for 64-bit Windows 7
* Graphics card or chip that supports DirectX 9 with 128 MB memory (to have Aero theme enabled)
* DVD-R/W drive
* Internet or phone access to activate Windows 7.
 

My Computer

Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Toshiba Satellite S875D-S7239 laptop
OS
MS Windows 7 Ultimate SP1 64-bit
CPU
AMD A10-4600M
Motherboard
AMD Pumori (Socket FT1)
Memory
6.00 GB Dual-Channel DDR3 @ 798MHz (11-11-12-28)
Graphics Card(s)
AMD Radeon HD 7660G
Sound Card
High Definition Audio Device
Monitor(s) Displays
Generic PnP Monitor (1600x900@60Hz)
Screen Resolution
1600x900@60Hz
Hard Drives
SSD 119GB Corsair CSSD-V128GB2 ATA Device
Keyboard
Standard PS/2 Keyboard
Mouse
HP Wireless Optical Mobile Mouse Model FHA-3410
Internet Speed
What the local pub, local coffee shop offers.
Other Info
Optical Drive:MATSHITA BD-CMB UJ160B ATA Device


Also have an Asus ha1002xp netbook with Win 7 Ultimate installed.
Note Step #1

1. Boot the computer from your Windows 7 installation DVD.
NOTE: Make sure that the CD/DVD drive is selected first in the boot order in your BIOS settings. Usually it is by default.
Click to expand...


Most systems now automatically see a dvd rom or burner type drive installed. For an older system only seeing a cd rom or cd writer type there's also the option for creating a usb installation key. http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/2432-usb-windows-7-installation-key-drive-create.html

Or simply replace a cd drive for a dvd capable model.
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
    Custom builds = 2
    OS
    W7 Ultimate x64/W10 Pro x64/W11 Pro Triple Boot - Main PC W7 Remote PC Micro ATX W7 Pro x64/W11 Pro
    CPU
    AMD Phenom II X4 975 Deneb 3.6ghz - 965 2nd remote pc
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte GA-790XTA-UD4-Gigabyte GA-880GM-D2H remote pc
    Memory
    Kingston Hyper X DDR3 1600 1.5v 16gb - Hyper X Fury 8gb 2nd
    Graphics Card(s)
    MSI HD Radeon 5750 1gb - MSI HD Radeon 6450 on mini tower
    Sound Card
    Creative Labs X-Fi Xtreme Audio P - Realtek onooard 2nd case
    Monitor(s) Displays
    ASUS VW199T-P 19" HP 2082a Main-HP 2082a 20" remote pc
    Screen Resolution
    Asus 1440x900 - HP 1600x900
    Hard Drives
    WD Black 1TB HD per OS W7, W10, and pending W11 presently on 500gb OS Drive - Pending Triple 1TB HDs for Spanned Storage/backup volume
    Single 2TB external USB enclosure, single 1TB System 7 Host/Boot drive, Pending 8TB external HD for system image b
    PSU
    Corsair 750TX - primary / Corsair CX600 - second
    Case
    Antec 900-2 - SSD compatible / NZXT Vulcan mini tower
    Cooling
    Zalman CNPS9900A
    Keyboard
    AZIO L70 Backlit Letters Gaming - ONN Cordless/USB
    Mouse
    MSI DS200 Programmable, Logitech Cordless
    Internet Speed
    30mbps upgrade - primary hard wired - mini tower usb WiFi
    Antivirus
    GFI VIPRE Internet Security 2014 on W7 2016 beta on W10,
    Browser
    Cyberfox, WaterFox 64bit FF variants, FireFox x64, Pale Moon
    Other Info
    Accomdata fan cooled usb 2.0 PIDE/Sata II, III external enclosure.
    Sambient usb/eSata PATA/Sata II, III external enclosure.
  • Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model Number
    CUSTOM ASSEMBLY
    OS
    W7 Pro x64/W11 Pro
    CPU
    AMD Deneb 3.6ghz - 965
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte GA-880GM-D2H remote pc
    Memory
    Kingston Hyper X Fury 8gb
    Graphics Card(s)
    MSI HD Radeon 6450 DVI Output
    Sound Card
    Realtek onooard Creative or Other separate PENDING
    Monitor(s) Displays
    VIZIO 32" LCD TV Separate LCD Pending
    Screen Resolution
    1600x1080
    Hard Drives
    WD 500GB OS Host/Boot WD Green 1TB Storage/Backup
    PSU
    Corsair 600W - THERMALTAKE 600W spare case
    Case
    NZXT Vulcan mini tower
    Cooling
    Twin 120mm Top Fans - 240mm Side Cover
    Keyboard
    ONN Cordless/USB Logitech Cordless
    Mouse
    ONN USB/Cordless - Logitech Cordless
    Internet Speed
    DSL 5G
    Browser
    MS Edge, FireFox, WaterFox x64, FireFox Nightly
    Other Info
    OS Testing-Remote Access to Main TeamViewer

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Self built custom
OS
64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
CPU
Intel i7-8700K OC'd to 5 GHz
Motherboard
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Formula Z390
Memory
64 GB (4x16GB) G.SKILL TridentZ RGB DDR4 3600 MHz
Graphics Card(s)
ASUS ROG-STRIX-GTX1080TI-O11G-GAMING
Sound Card
Integrated
Monitor(s) Displays
2 x Samsung Odyssey G7 27"
Screen Resolution
2560x1440
Hard Drives
1TB Samsung 990 PRO M.2,
4TB Samsung 990 PRO PRO M.2,
TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS
PSU
Seasonic Prime Titanium 850W
Case
Thermaltake Core P3
Cooling
Corsair Hydro H115i
Keyboard
Logitech wireless K800
Mouse
Logitech MX Master 4
Internet Speed
2 Gb/s Download and 100 Mb/s Upload
Antivirus
Malwarebyte Anti-Malware Premium
Browser
Google Chrome
Other Info
Logitech Z625 speaker system,
Logitech BRIO 4K Pro webcam,
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdn,
APC SMART-UPS RT 1000 XL - SURT1000XLI,
Galaxy S23 Plus phone
Having the link for the other guide will be a large help for netbook users! That worked out well! :D
 

My Computers

System One System Two

  • Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
    Custom builds = 2
    OS
    W7 Ultimate x64/W10 Pro x64/W11 Pro Triple Boot - Main PC W7 Remote PC Micro ATX W7 Pro x64/W11 Pro
    CPU
    AMD Phenom II X4 975 Deneb 3.6ghz - 965 2nd remote pc
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte GA-790XTA-UD4-Gigabyte GA-880GM-D2H remote pc
    Memory
    Kingston Hyper X DDR3 1600 1.5v 16gb - Hyper X Fury 8gb 2nd
    Graphics Card(s)
    MSI HD Radeon 5750 1gb - MSI HD Radeon 6450 on mini tower
    Sound Card
    Creative Labs X-Fi Xtreme Audio P - Realtek onooard 2nd case
    Monitor(s) Displays
    ASUS VW199T-P 19" HP 2082a Main-HP 2082a 20" remote pc
    Screen Resolution
    Asus 1440x900 - HP 1600x900
    Hard Drives
    WD Black 1TB HD per OS W7, W10, and pending W11 presently on 500gb OS Drive - Pending Triple 1TB HDs for Spanned Storage/backup volume
    Single 2TB external USB enclosure, single 1TB System 7 Host/Boot drive, Pending 8TB external HD for system image b
    PSU
    Corsair 750TX - primary / Corsair CX600 - second
    Case
    Antec 900-2 - SSD compatible / NZXT Vulcan mini tower
    Cooling
    Zalman CNPS9900A
    Keyboard
    AZIO L70 Backlit Letters Gaming - ONN Cordless/USB
    Mouse
    MSI DS200 Programmable, Logitech Cordless
    Internet Speed
    30mbps upgrade - primary hard wired - mini tower usb WiFi
    Antivirus
    GFI VIPRE Internet Security 2014 on W7 2016 beta on W10,
    Browser
    Cyberfox, WaterFox 64bit FF variants, FireFox x64, Pale Moon
    Other Info
    Accomdata fan cooled usb 2.0 PIDE/Sata II, III external enclosure.
    Sambient usb/eSata PATA/Sata II, III external enclosure.
  • Computer type
    PC/Desktop
    System Manufacturer/Model Number
    CUSTOM ASSEMBLY
    OS
    W7 Pro x64/W11 Pro
    CPU
    AMD Deneb 3.6ghz - 965
    Motherboard
    Gigabyte GA-880GM-D2H remote pc
    Memory
    Kingston Hyper X Fury 8gb
    Graphics Card(s)
    MSI HD Radeon 6450 DVI Output
    Sound Card
    Realtek onooard Creative or Other separate PENDING
    Monitor(s) Displays
    VIZIO 32" LCD TV Separate LCD Pending
    Screen Resolution
    1600x1080
    Hard Drives
    WD 500GB OS Host/Boot WD Green 1TB Storage/Backup
    PSU
    Corsair 600W - THERMALTAKE 600W spare case
    Case
    NZXT Vulcan mini tower
    Cooling
    Twin 120mm Top Fans - 240mm Side Cover
    Keyboard
    ONN Cordless/USB Logitech Cordless
    Mouse
    ONN USB/Cordless - Logitech Cordless
    Internet Speed
    DSL 5G
    Browser
    MS Edge, FireFox, WaterFox x64, FireFox Nightly
    Other Info
    OS Testing-Remote Access to Main TeamViewer
Hi Shawn,

Is it possible there is junk left on my computer even after doing a clean install of Windows 7. I was looking in the registry and there are things on it I didn't install and thought I uninstalled like Norton bloatwear that came with the computer. There are also games I saw in the registry I didn't install either like Mortal Combat and some others. When I originally installed Windows 7 I didn't format the disk. Should I have so everything would have been erased off the hard drive? Not sure what to do.

Thanks,

Casey
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Custom Build
OS
Windows 7 Home Premium
CPU
AMD Phenom II 955 Black Edition Quad Core
Motherboard
MSI 870-G45
Memory
Corsair XMS3 8GB
Graphics Card(s)
ATI Eyefinity HD 5770 5 mini display ports
Sound Card
Realtek High Definition 6.1
Monitor(s) Displays
2 DELL E207WFP 21.5" - 1 Acer 21.5"
Screen Resolution
2 Dells 1680x1050 - Acer 1920x1080
Hard Drives
Intel 40GB SSD
WD 500GB internal
WD 500Gb external
PSU
Cooler Master 500w
Case
Cooler Master 430 Black Elite
Keyboard
HP
Mouse
MIBRU
Internet Speed
10 mbs
Antivirus
Trend Micro
Browser
Chrome
Hello Casey,

For a true clean install, you would want to format or delete the hard drive first, then install Windows 7. This will wipe it clean for a fresh start. Just be sure to backup anything that you do not want to lose first though. :)
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Self built custom
OS
64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
CPU
Intel i7-8700K OC'd to 5 GHz
Motherboard
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Formula Z390
Memory
64 GB (4x16GB) G.SKILL TridentZ RGB DDR4 3600 MHz
Graphics Card(s)
ASUS ROG-STRIX-GTX1080TI-O11G-GAMING
Sound Card
Integrated
Monitor(s) Displays
2 x Samsung Odyssey G7 27"
Screen Resolution
2560x1440
Hard Drives
1TB Samsung 990 PRO M.2,
4TB Samsung 990 PRO PRO M.2,
TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS
PSU
Seasonic Prime Titanium 850W
Case
Thermaltake Core P3
Cooling
Corsair Hydro H115i
Keyboard
Logitech wireless K800
Mouse
Logitech MX Master 4
Internet Speed
2 Gb/s Download and 100 Mb/s Upload
Antivirus
Malwarebyte Anti-Malware Premium
Browser
Google Chrome
Other Info
Logitech Z625 speaker system,
Logitech BRIO 4K Pro webcam,
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdn,
APC SMART-UPS RT 1000 XL - SURT1000XLI,
Galaxy S23 Plus phone
Hi Shawn,

Are there instructions on the forum for formatting or deleting the hard drive?

Casey
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Custom Build
OS
Windows 7 Home Premium
CPU
AMD Phenom II 955 Black Edition Quad Core
Motherboard
MSI 870-G45
Memory
Corsair XMS3 8GB
Graphics Card(s)
ATI Eyefinity HD 5770 5 mini display ports
Sound Card
Realtek High Definition 6.1
Monitor(s) Displays
2 DELL E207WFP 21.5" - 1 Acer 21.5"
Screen Resolution
2 Dells 1680x1050 - Acer 1920x1080
Hard Drives
Intel 40GB SSD
WD 500GB internal
WD 500Gb external
PSU
Cooler Master 500w
Case
Cooler Master 430 Black Elite
Keyboard
HP
Mouse
MIBRU
Internet Speed
10 mbs
Antivirus
Trend Micro
Browser
Chrome
Casey,

You can format the drive during the installation of Windows 7 at steps 7 and 8 in the tutorial on the first page. :)
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Self built custom
OS
64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
CPU
Intel i7-8700K OC'd to 5 GHz
Motherboard
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Formula Z390
Memory
64 GB (4x16GB) G.SKILL TridentZ RGB DDR4 3600 MHz
Graphics Card(s)
ASUS ROG-STRIX-GTX1080TI-O11G-GAMING
Sound Card
Integrated
Monitor(s) Displays
2 x Samsung Odyssey G7 27"
Screen Resolution
2560x1440
Hard Drives
1TB Samsung 990 PRO M.2,
4TB Samsung 990 PRO PRO M.2,
TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS
PSU
Seasonic Prime Titanium 850W
Case
Thermaltake Core P3
Cooling
Corsair Hydro H115i
Keyboard
Logitech wireless K800
Mouse
Logitech MX Master 4
Internet Speed
2 Gb/s Download and 100 Mb/s Upload
Antivirus
Malwarebyte Anti-Malware Premium
Browser
Google Chrome
Other Info
Logitech Z625 speaker system,
Logitech BRIO 4K Pro webcam,
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdn,
APC SMART-UPS RT 1000 XL - SURT1000XLI,
Galaxy S23 Plus phone
Thanks Shawn! You Da Man!
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Custom Build
OS
Windows 7 Home Premium
CPU
AMD Phenom II 955 Black Edition Quad Core
Motherboard
MSI 870-G45
Memory
Corsair XMS3 8GB
Graphics Card(s)
ATI Eyefinity HD 5770 5 mini display ports
Sound Card
Realtek High Definition 6.1
Monitor(s) Displays
2 DELL E207WFP 21.5" - 1 Acer 21.5"
Screen Resolution
2 Dells 1680x1050 - Acer 1920x1080
Hard Drives
Intel 40GB SSD
WD 500GB internal
WD 500Gb external
PSU
Cooler Master 500w
Case
Cooler Master 430 Black Elite
Keyboard
HP
Mouse
MIBRU
Internet Speed
10 mbs
Antivirus
Trend Micro
Browser
Chrome
You're most welcome Casey. :)
 

My Computer

Computer type
PC/Desktop
Computer Manufacturer/Model Number
Self built custom
OS
64-bit Windows 11 Pro for Workstations
CPU
Intel i7-8700K OC'd to 5 GHz
Motherboard
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Formula Z390
Memory
64 GB (4x16GB) G.SKILL TridentZ RGB DDR4 3600 MHz
Graphics Card(s)
ASUS ROG-STRIX-GTX1080TI-O11G-GAMING
Sound Card
Integrated
Monitor(s) Displays
2 x Samsung Odyssey G7 27"
Screen Resolution
2560x1440
Hard Drives
1TB Samsung 990 PRO M.2,
4TB Samsung 990 PRO PRO M.2,
TerraMaster F8 SSD Plus NAS
PSU
Seasonic Prime Titanium 850W
Case
Thermaltake Core P3
Cooling
Corsair Hydro H115i
Keyboard
Logitech wireless K800
Mouse
Logitech MX Master 4
Internet Speed
2 Gb/s Download and 100 Mb/s Upload
Antivirus
Malwarebyte Anti-Malware Premium
Browser
Google Chrome
Other Info
Logitech Z625 speaker system,
Logitech BRIO 4K Pro webcam,
HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdn,
APC SMART-UPS RT 1000 XL - SURT1000XLI,
Galaxy S23 Plus phone
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

Can I install windows 7 on EMMC disk?
Replies
4
Views
3K
SIW2
SIW2
Will Windows "Secure Boot" Update cause Problems With Win 7?
Replies
2
Views
1K
Bree
Bree
Solved Clean disks to avoid the missing driver error upon install ?
2
Replies
35
Views
5K
Muffin Top
M
problem putting on windows 7 2018 ios on rufus
Replies
7
Views
2K
torchwood
torchwood
installing windows 7 on a pcmcia compact flash card
Replies
0
Views
3K
qaz7371
Q
Back
Top