Format or Delete

[macgybl]

Is there a way to "clean up" my Drive without formatting every few months? I've deleted a bunch of files, programs and also defragged. Is there any way around formatting?? I;m using a Dell 8200. Any help is appreciated

[OuTpaTienT]

Why do you need to format so often? I almost never format my hard drives. Just once when they're new.

Now if you got the time to reformat your drives then that's great. It probably keeps the format good and strong on the drive as well as it doesn't hurt to reinstall everything clean once in a while.

But who in the heck has the time to reformat their drives? Not me. One of my three hard drives is around 3 years old I believe. It's only been formatted once, that day I got it.

[[Neo770]]

What exactly is the problem? What OS are you useing?

[macgybl]

I'm using Windows XP pro. The reason why I keep formatting is because I "Test" a bunch of programs. Some don't have uninstalls, so I just delete the directories. I know I know.. not good. Formatting certainly speeds up my computer cause all the "junk" is gone. There's gotta be a way around it. Thanks again!

[Siliconjunkie]

I reinstall about once a month. Just as a matter of habit. Keeps winbloat down and things running smoothly. I have backups down to at science and ghost is my best friend. I can backup, reinstall/image and be back up and running in about 30 min.

If you are using XP, use the files and setttings transfer wizard and ghost. Once you install and patch, make a ghost image and you are set next time.

[JPMiller]

I will post a link to a program that lets you "test" stuff and then obliterate it when done...that way there isnt any leftovers...gota find it first!

[ChubTub]

Format for me about every 4 months just to keep things clean and smooth.