Clean install
Alternatively referred to as a clean format, a clean install is when everything is erased from the computer and then re-installed. The hard drive is essentially "clean" and can be used for installing a fresh copy of an operating system and any other software you want re-installed. Many hard drives have a utilities that can perform a clean format (secure erase), designed specifically for that brand or model of hard drive.
- Uninstalling Windows software.
- How to help make sure all data is erased on hard drive.
- How to erase my hard disk drive and start over.
Also see: Install, Re-install