[Hawsky]

When one decides to "off" a machine for a donation, or just between family members, is there a command you can pull of to erase all of your data, my docs, etc. as to allow the new user have a clean start.
Thanks for the help!!

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If you/.the next use have a copy of windows then you can format your hard drive from my computer.

• Open My Computer
• Right click on the drive you want to wipe and select format.
• Select NTFS as the file system

Remember: This will erase everything on your hard drive, including windows, so make sure you have a windows install disc and serial key handy.

If you do not have an OS install disc do not follow the steps above, some manufacturers have their own method of reverting to a fresh OS so it might be a good idea to consult the documentation that was provided with your computer.

[The Noodle]

If you/.the next use have a copy of windows then you can format your hard drive from my computer.

• Open My Computer
• Right click on the drive you want to wipe and select format.
• Select NTFS as the file system

Remember: This will erase everything on your hard drive, including windows, so make sure you have a windows install disc and serial key handy.

If you do not have an OS install disc do not follow the steps above, some manufacturers have their own method of reverting to a fresh OS so it might be a good idea to consult the documentation that was provided with your computer.

[makai]

Formatting will wipe the OS. Is this what you really want to do?

If you're going to give it to a family member or donate it and want the OS to stay intact, along with all the programs, then there is no way to wipe personal data except by deleting the files manually. If you don't care about the OS, then you can format the hard drive, or better yet, use DBAN.

[123Runner]

The problem with DBAN and wiping the entire disk, or even a format is that you could wipe out a recovery partition (if there is one on the drive).
Most computer manufacturers either send recovery CD's or there is a hidden partition. I would be careful before a full format or DBAN.