how do i reformat with xp?

[seamus]

Hello Everyone
I have lots of small software problems with my laptop computer and I would like to reformat my hard drive. My operating system is windows xp home edition. I already reinstalled xp last week and then discovered I could have used system restore to perhaps correct some problems but this now only goes back to the reinstallation date.
I tried to carry out the repair option with the xp cd, it goes so far and then asks me for my administration code, where would I get this ? I do have a code which came with the computer but this does not seem to be what is required. I do have two users on the computer , mine is password protected, and I have administration option, and I also tried this password but this is also not the administration code, any ideas? I have reformatted a few computers with windows 98, but with xp it is my first time.
Thank you for your help
Seamus

 

[jjsevdt]

I use Maxtor's hard drive tool that makes a floppy disk that starts on startup and enables you to do a quick or full format. You don't have to have a Maxtor drive fo it to work. Then restart with your Windows CD in.

 

[jbrown456]

I use Maxtor's hard drive tool that makes a floppy disk that starts on startup and enables you to do a quick or full format. You don't have to have a Maxtor drive fo it to work. Then restart with your Windows CD in.

That'll do it.