How To Reformat A Hard Drive Windows 10 !full! Jun 2026

Not from within Windows. To reinstall Windows, use a bootable USB and choose “Format” during installation.

Try:

Windows may ask if you want to "Just remove my files" or "Remove files and clean the drive." how to reformat a hard drive windows 10

Right-click the drive you want to wipe and select Format . Choose Settings:

This method is best for secondary internal drives or external USB storage. Open (Windows Key + E) and click This PC . Not from within Windows

Reformatting a hard drive prepares it for a fresh start: changing the file system, erasing data, or fixing corruption. Below are three simple methods, depending on your goal.

Click the Start button and select the Gear icon (Settings). Alternatively, press Windows Key + I . Choose Settings: This method is best for secondary

A small window will appear. Here are the recommended settings for most users:

Look at the "This PC" or "My Computer" section. Find the hard drive you wish to format.