(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); I have an old Compaq Presario Desktop and I wanna format the HDD but I have been searching around and found that itll mean I have to reinstall my OS. I dont have the original installation disc. So is there a way around this? Can I format it without needing to install my OS again. Btw Its on Windows XP Home Edition 32 bit. Help will be much appreciated.

Or... Can I install another OS. Something like Windows 7? Or is that not possible?

Can we get the model number of the computer?

sr1715an

May I ask why you are trying to format it?

I just have a load of crap on it that I dont want. I have all the stuff I want backed up on my laptop

And I wanna upgrade to windows 7 so I thought If I formatted my hdd, that I could just install Windows 7 instead of Windows XP

Well honestly I had two of these machines and I just threw them out. I wouldn't put Windows 7 on the machine if I were you, if you want to format it simply download Windows XP and make a bootable USB out of the download. You should be able to use the COA that's on the casing of the machine as a key.

EDIT: You could put Windows 7 on the machine but you must source it yourself. Just make a bootable USB and when installing windows they give you a Basic/Auto or Custom/Advanced option. Go to advanced and delete all partitions until you have yourself just one partition then click next.

I kinda wanna keep it though. Just for personal use. And because I dont have the money to buy a brand new PC, So I though I might just buy better parts for it.

And also thanks for your help!

I've edited my post, and honestly it's not worth upgrading such an old rig.

Ok, Thanks for your help