Need to Reformat Windows 7

[QuackPot]

Windows 7 keeps crashing for me and I'm wanting to completely reformat my C:\ but I take it it's more or less the same as what I did to install Windows 7. Ie, boot up the install disk when I switch my laptop on and then just following the instructions again?

 

[theog]

Have a read of this tutorial: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/91339-ssd-optimize-windows-re-installation.html this will work for any HD.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html?ltr=C

 

[Bill2]

If you have OEM win7, you can restore to the factory default using the Recovery software loaded on your machine or by using recovery disks. If you do have an OEM install, a clean install will need to be re-activated using phone activation.

 

[QuackPot]

I got my serial number from MSDNAA. So does that mean it'll be ok to reinstall?

 

[gregrocker]

Follow the steps in tutorials theog linked and you'll have the cleanest slate to reinstall and screenshots to view each step.

If you have the retail key then you should have no problem reactivating - since it is same hardware, shouldn't even require a robocall.

Remember the installer is nearly driver-complete with newer arriving quickly via WIndows Update. Any drivers then missing in Device Manager can be found on the Support Downloads webpage for your model computer or device - place in Downloads file for easy referral.

Don't change the drivers given by installer unless performance dictates. This is not Vista or XP.

Consider free lightweight Microsoft Security Essentials which installs in 30 seconds, updates and then becomes invisible unless you have a threat. No performance hit on your system at all.

Install programs slowly over time so you can gauge performance after each. Make sure no program besides AV writes itself into msconfig>Startup as it is freeloading on your RAM/CPU at all times when it should only start when you click it.

After it is set up as you like, run the CCleaner "Run Cleaner" and Registry tabs, then Auslogics Disk and Registry defraggers to perfectly clean and order the HD. I use them monthly.

When it's running perfectly, save a baseline Win7 backup image so you never have to reinstall or reactivate again, just reimage the HD in 15-20 minutes using DVD Repair console.