Formatting a hard drive along with the install of a new OS is the best option. The vast majority of operating system installations provide a "format" option as part of the installation process.

I have a Toshiba Satellite from 3-4 years ago with XP Home installed. I have the original system restore CD for this model laptop, which would reinstall the factory image if used. The laptop does work ...

Reader Karen Evans has been thwarted in an attempt to install software on her Mac. She writes: Over the holidays I passed along an old Mac mini to my son. When setting it up I inserted a CD to install ...