How to completely format the Windows drive (C)?
How to completely format the Windows drive (C)?
I possess only one drive running Windows 10. If I use the recovery menu in Windows, the safest choice will erase everything while preserving the operating system. I aim to completely wipe the drive—including the OS—and then transfer it onto a flash drive. If I run CMD and execute diskpart commands, I’m uncertain about the outcome. I’ve noticed some users skip formatting their drives during Windows recovery, simply inserting a flash drive and replacing the OS, but I prefer a clean start like a brand-new device.
You're aiming to fully prepare your C drive and then reinstall Windows from a USB. The installer will let you choose a custom installation, which allows you to format and erase all partitions before starting the setup. After that, you'll reinstall Windows on the same drive, completing the process.
You can install a bootable tool onto a USB drive, start it, and then format the storage device. The link provided offers a recommended option.
Ensure you start from the installation USB to avoid overwriting the C drive.
When you start from the USB, you can press Shift+F10 to launch the command prompt. Then follow the diskpart instructions you referenced or use the GUI to remove all current partitions. After that, click Next and the system will manage the repartitioning automatically.