i just now began to take a look at installing vista and its not looking good on my end....freezes at the "completing install" screen...working with drivers on the prob. now...but to your question, as far as i know you can format...i have NO clue about partitioning with the disk but im guessing you can, im not sure because my hd was pre-partition prior to me 'trying' to install vista lol.......as for the drivers, vista prompts you to find drivers you need before beginning the install..this is also at the same screen as the format and 'select your hd space to install on' screen....hope that helps