WinXP install - Quick or "full" format?

Discussion in 'Windows' started by Drjones, Aug 20, 2009.

  1. Drjones

    Drjones

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    Hi.

    I'm reinstalling WinXP Pro on an old computer and the past few times I've installed XP, I do the "full" format and not the "quick" format.

    The "full" format usually takes 20-30 min, while I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the "quick" format only took like 20 seconds.

    What exactly is the difference between the two, other than the time?

    Thanks!
     
    Drjones, Aug 20, 2009
    #1
  2. Drjones

    garrovick

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    A full format erases the drive. A quick erase format is like simply deleting a file. The old data remains on the disk. Either way is fine unless the old XP install got corrupted and crashed, then a full format is best.
     
    garrovick, Aug 20, 2009
    #2
  3. Drjones

    Drjones

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    Cool, thank you very much.
     
    Drjones, Aug 20, 2009
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  4. Drjones

    SlCKB0Y

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    Sorry, your noob answer in totally wrong.

    The only difference is that a full format does a bad sector check on the disk, which is what takes all the time.
    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/302686
     
    SlCKB0Y, Oct 30, 2009
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  5. Drjones

    Drjones

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    Yes, I have learned that your answer is correct: A "full" format does a bad sector check.

    Thanks
     
    Drjones, Oct 30, 2009
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