My computer is about 3 years old and came with a system recovery/restore disk set. I have restored my computer many times over the years but it's getting to the point where it doesn't do much good. Last restore was not two months ago and I get locked up at least once everyday. I want to do a fresh install but how do I go about it if I don't have a full Windows Me disk? Do I simply put the restore disk in when the prompt comes up?

I have been told the disks do all the formatting for me but there is space taken up on my empty second drive.

I want to completely wipe clean my computer and would like some help please.

If you don't want to retain any of your data, a Recovery using your CDs (I assume that's what you mean by disks) will work fine. Just go into the BIOS and change your first boot option to the CD, insert the CD, save the BIOS changes, and let the machine boot.

Hi Chembrlee,

Don't worry if you dont have a WinME CD. The OS files will be in /windows/options/install folder.
You only need the cd key.

Try using any third party softwares like System Mechanic's Drive Scrubber to completely erase the disk (You must back up the OS from install folder)

Thank you

Hi Chembrlee,

As sreeprakashms said you will get the installation files in the %windows%/options/install folder. copy it to other partition and then boot from a floppy. format the primary partion and instal windows from where you saved the files in command prompt.
If you want i can give you a detailed description on how to do that.

Ok So if I move the files to my D drive (my other hard drive not used) I only format the c drive and then reinstall the OS back into the C drive? I have the key, taken from the regestry, and all the drivers that are included in the recovery CDs and boot disk I made for windows Me. I can do this? My whole purpose is to start with nothing and add what I want to add from scratch without having to add all the crap that comes on my recovery CDs.

One question... how would I access the D drive when there is no OS? Please share step by step instructions.