Can't reformat hard drive - Windows XP - virus problem

[Geeky Girl]

I'm stuck, viruses have taken over the os and I can't reformat hd cause I can't get to a dos prompt or recovery console.  I changed the boot sequence to cd/dvd, but when the screen says enter any key to boot from cd nothing happens and it goes straight to hard drive.  I can't get in safe mode either and the login screen is asking for an administrative password which I don't know.  Any suggestions??? 

[Helpmeh]

I'm stuck, viruses have taken over the os and I can't reformat hd cause I can't get to a dos prompt or recovery console.  I changed the boot sequence to cd/dvd, but when the screen says enter any key to boot from cd nothing happens and it goes straight to hard drive.  I can't get in safe mode either and the login screen is asking for an administrative password which I don't know.  Any suggestions??? 

Are you sure this is a virus problem?

If so, please post this in the Viruses section of computerhope.

And welcome to ComputerHope Forums!

[Geeky Girl]

Well originally virus removal caused the os to become unstable and now it boils down to reformating the hard drive against the issues stated.  Do you still think I need to post it in virus cause at this point I can't do anything but reformat.

[Helpmeh]

Well originally virus removal caused the os to become unstable and now it boils down to reformating the hard drive against the issues stated.  Do you still think I need to post it in virus cause at this point I can't do anything but reformat.

In the Virus/Malware section you will probably get a much more advanced look at your computer, so I suggest you post there.

[BC_Programmer]

the only time a reformat will be recommended is with specific strains- for example, Virut.