cannot delete hard drive

[matteson]

sry im new 2 computeres
im pretty sure my computer has a virus cuz its been SSSSLLOOWW and when it boots the screens black with a space flashing for 10 min. i used norton antivirus but cant find anythiing so i wanted 2 delete hard drive. everytime itry it goes back 2 the welcome screen.
if i use 1 of the programs that wipe out hard drives i can just stick in my reinsallation disk right?
PLZ HELP
matteson

[Ferrit]

Ok I think you need to provide some information first,
because there is very little in your post.
What type of computer exactly ? Model ? Make ?
What windows system?
Have you tried safemode?

[TripleRLtd]

Typically, the name brand pc's restore cd will allow you to just start from it and restore your pc to the "clean" slate it was in when purchased. In other words: that cd will do the job for you, wiping you hard drive clean. But, the pc needs to start/boot from the cd, not the hard drive.

[matteson]

k thx
its a dell dimension 4600 with windows and i havent tried safe mode. i tried using the cd but it just jumps back 2 the welcome screen
thx agin

[TripleRLtd]

You need to enter the Bios setup (F2 key) and change the boot order. Make the CD Drive the first boot device then the pc will boot off the cd. You'll see a prompt that states: "Press any key to boot from CD". You MUST tap a key at that point.

[geoscomp]

On the 4600, you need to press f12 when the dell logo appears. and choose ide cd-rom drive from the list of boot options, and then hit enter. Make sure your cd is in the drive before hitting enter.