Selling a computer

[Dano Collo]

Hi,

I am selling my old desktop PC and wondered how I can completely clean it without deleting Windows XP. I dont have the original disk anymore so wont be able to reinstall it.

Is there some simple software that can clear everything and restore it?

Also is it safe for me to sell without re formatting? I have only ever used the computer for going online, no important docs were stored, may have been onto my online bank a few times but thats about it?

Cheers

 

[TristanPerry]

Have you looked at something like:

http://shredder.remosoftware.com/

It looks like it can delete files and folders without removing the OS.

As for online banking - you'll almost definitely be fine, although I guess there's a small chance that the old cache files (which would no longer be 'saved') are on your hard-drive; which unfortunately means they probably can't be removed without a total secure reformat.

However I'd suggest just to change your password and/or security information - that way, in the very unlikely chance that some old cache files are found by the new owner, it wouldn't really matter anyway.

 

[applemao]

I wpuld reccomend just using a linux dics to format it

 

[voyagerfan99]

I wpuld reccomend just using a linux dics to format it

He said WITHOUT deleting XP.

Wiping the drive and reinstalling a fresh copy of XP is always the best option.

 

[Sluggo]

Oops sorry...

yes ur best option that i know of would be formatting

 

[Aastii]

You could look into installing Tiny xp.

Discussion of any of the following is NOT allowed at Computer Forum:

Illegally modified OS versions such as "XP Black," which are typically distributed illegally.

formatting is your best option here. See if you anybody that you know has the XP disc, you don't need a key, just the disc

 

[computeruler]

You can just download a copy of windows and use the key either on the computer or by right clicking on my computer and going to properties. I think it says the key there.

 

[Aastii]

You can just download a copy of windows and use the key either on the computer or by right clicking on my computer and going to properties. I think it says the key there.

Again, from the rules:

Discussion of any of the following is NOT allowed at Computer Forum:

Promoting piracy as an alternative to the legal purchase of computer software or media material.

The use of torrent trackers or p2p software to obtain copyrighted material. Any discussion of programs like Limewire, Frostwire, eMule, eDonkey, etc.. is not allowed, whether or not you believe or suggest it's for legal use.

 

[computeruler]

The keys legal, so no problem.

 

[vnsmith]

Have you looked at something like:

http://shredder.remosoftware.com/

It looks like it can delete files and folders without removing the OS.

As for online banking - you'll almost definitely be fine, although I guess there's a small chance that the old cache files (which would no longer be 'saved') are on your hard-drive; which unfortunately means they probably can't be removed without a total secure reformat.

However I'd suggest just to change your password and/or security information - that way, in the very unlikely chance that some old cache files are found by the new owner, it wouldn't really matter anyway.

I second him.. you can even uninstall then reinstall your browser to delete the cache..

or if you can afford, why not purchase a new original cd.. and then include it on the package when you sell your computer..