bloatware

if you remove the bloatware, you dont need to reformat just uninstall all that and get a program called registry mechanic and that will delete all the un used registry settings that the bloatware used. and there are also programs out there that search of un used files but you should becareful with those programs as sometimes they pic up files you might still need.and windows washer is a nice little progam to use aswell. so with those in mind along with msconfig and turning off some windows un neeeded services ur laptop should run like a champ without havin to reformat.

 

I always reformat. It's easy once you do it a few times. Once I'm done installing all the latest drivers and etc., I make a disc image. Now I have a super fresh install to go back to whenever I want and it only takes minutes.

I don't like to rely on programs to sniff out "unused files". I'd rather not have a trace of those files on my computer to begin with. I'm particular about my comuters that way.

 

nah i only reformat when i really need it if i get a virus or bit rott sets in thats when i break out the cd, but my os usually lasts me atleast 3 yrs with no reformat unless i do somethin stupid and get a virus or dont keep my windows cleaning was up.

 

how do u reformat your pc. and is it easy to do?

 

yeah very easy that is if you got the windows cd. all you do is pop in the windows cd delete the old partitions make new ones and then after that install windows thats all it is.

 

You aren't going to tell him about drivers and updates? There is a lot more to it.

Look here

Here's something I posted a few days ago...

 

what about all the HP software, liek quickplay and stuff.
they will be gone too?

 

hahhaha. i dont know **** about computer, sorry guys

 

i shouldnt have to tell him about the drivers and such if he has or is going to have the recovery cd because it should guide you through the process including updating drivers, it most likely gives you a option to update the drivers anyone can figure it out, its not hard at all hp

 

Your first description of XP installation,

did not include the use of recovery CDs.

Here is the difference between a Windows installation and a Windows recovery.

Why reformat if you are going to image your hard drive with the exact thing that you are erasing? I start with only a Windows XP SP2 installation CD and not a recovery image disc of the factory install.

HP Fan,
It is easy, if you have a general understanding ot the process. It helps a lot to have another computer around with internet access. Read through the guides in the link I posted, quickplay is mentioned there.