Discussing how to format an HDD in a laptop.

Mandi_64
Member

202

10-07-2022, 08:58 AM

I recently purchased a new laptop and considered clearing the HDD completely—every sector, block, and chunk, including the hidden OEM partition. I plan to install Windows 7 and set up the required drivers so I won’t have to manage unnecessary bloatware. I already have Windows 7 pre-installed on my USB drive using Rufus, and I’ll be using the OEM’s Windows 7 key located at the bottom of the laptop.

Mandi_64

10-07-2022, 08:58 AM #1

ClemCol1
Member

232

10-07-2022, 12:44 PM

File contents formatted for standard storage. Data ready to be saved.

ClemCol1

10-07-2022, 12:44 PM #2

File contents formatted for standard storage. Data ready to be saved.

LisaPower
Junior Member

10-28-2022, 02:23 PM

I noticed a question mark, but there was no question. Overall, that's a good approach—should be able to retrieve drivers from the laptop manufacturer's site, just bypass the utilities.

LisaPower

10-28-2022, 02:23 PM #3

I noticed a question mark, but there was no question. Overall, that's a good approach—should be able to retrieve drivers from the laptop manufacturer's site, just bypass the utilities.

SoyDash
Posting Freak

859

10-28-2022, 10:33 PM

The installer interface will ask for a partition to place Windows on. This window lets you remove all current partitions and pick the available area to use. Windows will handle the rest.

SoyDash

10-28-2022, 10:33 PM #4

The installer interface will ask for a partition to place Windows on. This window lets you remove all current partitions and pick the available area to use. Windows will handle the rest.

Fancy_Potatoes
Junior Member

11-01-2022, 02:57 AM

I saved the required drivers and completely reformatted the storage device. Now it's just time to install the drivers and then run the desired applications.

Fancy_Potatoes

11-01-2022, 02:57 AM #5

I saved the required drivers and completely reformatted the storage device. Now it's just time to install the drivers and then run the desired applications.

Aleo
Junior Member

11-07-2022, 09:32 PM

With standard Windows installation methods, there is no unnecessary software included. Additional programs appear only when using manufacturer restoration disks.

Aleo

11-07-2022, 09:32 PM #6

With standard Windows installation methods, there is no unnecessary software included. Additional programs appear only when using manufacturer restoration disks.