My laptop is too slow to operate
I want to reformat it, but I can't format the system drive. What am I going to do?
crwdns2934109:0crwdne2934109:0
I want to reformat it, but I can't format the system drive. What am I going to do?
crwdns2934109:0crwdne2934109:0
First thing frist: Try deleting the partitions on the drive from the installer on the OS. If that doesn't work, you'll need to use a bit of force to get it done.
If the end goal is to reformat the drive to prepare it for a new OS installation, and you either do not need the data or have backed it up, you can format the drive on another PC using a USB enclosure and a tool like Disk Management. Right-click on all the partitions and select 'Delete' from the context menu. Once the drive is "clear", it will take the new install just fine.
However, if this doesn't work for some reason, you may need to wipe the drive using a tool like Parted Magic or DBAN. Parted Magic will cost money, but I have successfully used it on stubborn drives before, and it always works. Parted Magic doesn't discriminate, as it utilizes Nwipe (DBAN's newer version) or ATA erase options handled by the drive's firmware. If security is a concern, DBAN with a three-pass or short wipe will be sufficient to clear the drive. Nwipe is also an option as well, though I have not tested it on SSDs. It appears to have the original issues DBAN is known for: No SSDs*, but it gives certificates - though their value is questionable.
*See here: https://github.com/PartialVolume/shredos.... It supports SSDs, but it's currently a CLI-based solution. Not novice-friendly.
NOTE: DBAN IS NOT SAFE ON SSDs - PARTED MAGIC OR A SIMILAR TOOL IS REQUIRED.
If security is a concern, use Parted Magic's ATA secure erase and run a 4K block check if you need to audit it; otherwise, simply proceed without verification. It takes hours, and a power loss can render the drive unusable (and you absolutely must set a password - use password and call it a day).
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