Hello! Guys,

Sorry to interrupt you...

As Gourab , Timer and other has mentioned about the formatting or Partiotioning, are correct. But, i would like share my opinion with you. Mostly, It is depending upon your OSs, how user -freindly it is...

To Format and Partition:
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1. Can use third party software. (can be applicable for all Windows versions) Partition Magic or others
2. Can use build in features (Windows XP). Right click on "My Computer"--> Manage-->"Disk Management"--> Right click on Your Hard-disk to do the formatting or Partitioning.

Now, which one you should follow:
1. Zero level formatting or, 2. Quick Formatting.

You can do either way...the difference is one is much detailed another doesn't. But, if your Hard-disk or Virtual memory affected by Spyware or Virus. It's better to do Zero level formatting (From BIOS).

Please, Follow the links below for more detailed options:

Windows 95 OEM SR2:http://www.pcguide.com/proc/setup/hdd-c.html

Windows 98 or ME:http://www.buildeasypc.com/sw/hddsetup.htm

Windows 2000:
To format: http://www.dewassoc.com/support/win2000/format2000.htm

To partition:http://www.dewassoc.com/support/win2000/partwin2000.htm

Windows XP: http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=313348

I hope that the above mentioned infos will help you regarding your Partitioning and Formatting the hard Disk.

Cheers...

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